Events in Albuquerque

Events in Every Season

Winter Events

The holiday magic comes alive in Albuquerque during the winter. Kick off the holiday season at the River of Lights, where you can wander through hundreds of thousands of twinkling light displays. You'll find many annual holiday shopping events during this time of year. In December, see thousands of luminarias light up Old Town Albuquerque.

In January, learn more about the Cold War and atomic innovation at Spyglass: A Festival of Espionage and Atoms. Bring the heat with a visit to the National Fiery Foods & BBQ Show.

Spring Events

Spring brings new life to Albuquerque, and with it many exciting events. Enjoy the delicacies of chocolate and coffee at the Southwest Chocolate and Coffee Fest. If dining out is more your thing, take part in Albuquerque Restaurant Week, where dozens of restaurants across the city offer special menus. Stop by the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden to take in the flowers in bloom.

Summer Events

The city comes alive during the summer with events in every neighborhood. Experience flamenco in the Flamenco Capital of North America with Festival Flamenco Alburquerque. Dozens of renowned flamenco dancers and musicians perform during this week-long festival. Hear talented mariachi bands perform at Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque.

Catch a neighborhood Summerfest event. These summer festivals feature local food and beverage vendors, artisans and local bands, and take place in different Albuquerque neighborhoods. Find more outdoor concerts at places like First Financial Credit Union Amphitheater, and during series like Zoo Music and Garden Music.

Fall Events

Fall is a magical time in Albuquerque. In October, the skies fill with the beautiful colors of hot air balloons during the ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®. Many local events correspond with the dates of Balloon Fiesta, including the Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival and the Harvest Festival.

Kick off fall with a visit to the New Mexico State Fair to celebrate local agriculture and art. Get your gears moving with Day of the Tread, a Day of the Dead and Halloween-themed bicycling event. Fall is peak chile roasting season, so take advantage of this delicious annual tradition.

Essential Tips for Event-Goers