For those still looking to finalize their plans this holiday weekend, Albuquerque has many fun events planned in and around town. Below is a sampling of some of the activities taking place over the long weekend.

Parades
 
Rio Rancho 4th of July Parade – Monday, July 4th 
Starting at the Country Club and ending on Pinetree Road, this annual parade features classic cars, military organizations and a bike parade. Awards for bikes will take place following the parade. Bike registration will begin at 9 a.m. 
Rio Rancho Country Club. Free.

Other area parades.

Music
 
Zoo Music Concert Series – Friday, July 1st
Enjoy the sounds of bluegrass band, The Steel Drivers, as they entertain an outdoor audience at the ABQ BioPark Zoo. Food, beer and wine are available for purchase. Picnics are welcome. (You may not bring your own alcohol).
ABQ BioPark Zoo. $3-$10.

Chris Isaak at the ABQ BioPark Zoo – Sunday, July 3rd
Enjoy an outdoor performance by pop crooner, Chris Isaak, presented by the New Mexico BioPark Society. The show is a special Go Wild fundraiser concert that will benefit the ABQ BioPark.
ABQ BioPark Zoo. $25-$30.

Rihanna: Loud Tour – Monday, July 4th
Hard Rock Casino Albuquerque Presents the Pavilion will feature the Rihanna: Loud Tour on Independence Day. Rihanna will be joined by special guest J. Cole.
Hard Rock Pavilion. Ticket prices vary.

Fireworks Displays

With the extremely dry conditions in the area, ditch the backyard fireworks in favor of community-sponsored firework displays.

Freedom Fourth – Monday, July 4th 
This annual patriotic celebration will feature live music, food, children’s activities and a fireworks display. At 8pm, enjoy a special performance from 2010 American Idol finalist, Casey James.
Balloon Fiesta Park. Free.

Isotopes 4th of July Fireworks Display - Monday, July 4th   
Celebrate Independence Day with the Isotopes. Enjoy the tunes of bluegrass band, Family Coal, before the game and after stay for a fireworks display. Music starts at 5:40 p.m. and the game starts at 7:05 p.m.
Isotopes Park. Ticket prices vary.
 
Rio Rancho Fireworks – Monday, July 4th
As an alternative to Albuquerque’s Freedom Fourth, Rio Rancho hosts a fireworks display at the Rio Rancho High School football stadium. Fireworks will start at 9:00 p.m. following a performance from the Rio Rancho Symphonic Band.
Rio Rancho High School. Free. (Parking at the high school is $5.00)

Fun for the Family

Hinkle Family Fun Center 4th of July Special – Monday, July 4th
Celebrate the 4th at Hinkle Family Fun Center and enjoy two hours of unlimited play on all of the main attractions at a discounted price. Paintball and game room credits extra.
Hinkle Family Fun Center. Two hours for $10/person

Red, White & Balloons 4th of July VIP Party – Monday, July 4th
Join others at the Balloon Museum for non-alcoholic family fun for the entire family. Enjoy tours, live entertainment, children’s activities, dinner, a sunset balloon glow and a great view of the fireworks.
Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. $10-$20.

Food Festival

8th Annual Pork and Brew State BBQ Championship – Friday-Sunday, July 1-3
Rio Rancho’s annual barbecue celebration has been moved from late March to Independence Day weekend. The event features children’s activities, more than 50 barbecue competitors, arts & crafts and some excellent barbeque!
Santa Ana Star Center (South Upper Parking Lot). $3-$5.

For a current list of upcoming events, visit www.itsatrip.org/events.