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Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque - Visit Albuquerque | ABQ Tourism


 From Visit Albuquerque

Albuquerque boasts four distinct and comfortable seasons, each with its own unique charms. However, the city's fall months may just be the most exciting time of year. As temperatures start to drop, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® takes flight - a world-class event that has grown from humble beginnings in 1972, when just 13 balloons gathered in a mall parking lot, to now featuring hundreds of balloons dotting the skies annually. This largest ballooning event in the world, held October 5-13, 2024, is one of Albuquerque's greatest assets.

Mornings at the Balloon Fiesta Park can be chilly, with temperatures around 40°F as Fiesta-goers arrive. It's best to dress in layers and bring a jacket to stay comfortable in the cool desert air. However, as the sun rises, the temperature will steadily climb, reaching a pleasant 70°F by midday.

The Balloon Fiesta's popular events can draw crowds of nearly 80,000 people. To ensure entry, we recommend arriving early - by 5:00 a.m. for morning events on weekends, and by 4:00 p.m. for evening events. The park gates open at 4:30 a.m. for morning events and 3:00 p.m. for evening events. For specific event start times, please refer to the Balloon Fiesta's event schedule.

With the Balloon Fiesta being the world's most photographed event, be sure to bring a camera - whether standalone or on your phone - to capture the captivating colors, shapes, and sizes of the balloons. Whether they're expanding and ascending against a brightening morning sky or floating serenely across Albuquerque's blue horizons, the balloons never fail to captivate.


Sadie's: Cooking Up Albuquerque's Heart and Soul

This year, Sadie's - a beloved family-run institution in New Mexican cuisine - celebrates its 70th anniversary. While steeped in tradition, the restaurant has welcomed its first non-family executive chef, who is introducing innovative new menu items. Visitors won't want to miss the chance to sample recipes honed over generations.

For 70 years, Sadie's of New Mexico has been a beloved local destination for authentic New Mexican cuisine. However, the restaurant has since evolved beyond its family-run roots. Executive Chef Keith Dominguez is the first non-family member to helm the kitchen at Sadie's, which was originally founded by Sadie Koury and her sister.



Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Albuquerque

Hispanic Heritage Month starts Sept. 15. Celebrate the traditions and heritage of Albuquerque’s Hispanic community with a weekend itinerary that showcases the historic and modern Hispanic, Latin American, Spanish and Mexican cultures throughout the city.

Albuquerque boasts some of the most diverse cultures in the country – well-known as a melting pot of Native American, Spanish and Mexican heritage and community.

­­­­Nearly half of New Mexico’s population can trace their roots to Latin American or Hispanic origins, and this rich, vibrant culture is prevalent throughout Albuquerque.



Albuquerque Film and Music Experience

AFMX brings together award-winning and up-and-coming filmmakers and musicians from around the world to showcase and celebrate film + music, and provide a platform for education, collaboration, discovery, and the sharing of impactful stories.

A full festival pass gives you access to over 40 events across our 5-day September 25th - 29th festival. Once you purchase your pass, you can access all film screenings, Center Stage Conversations, music events, networking events, after-parties, award ceremonies, and the 2024 showcase. No event registration is required, pass holders can simply arrive and enjoy!

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the world of film and music? Look no further than AFMX 2024, as we celebrate our 12th festival year! Since our inception in 2013, AFMX has attracted an average of 7,000 attendees per year, creating a vibrant community of artists, filmmakers, musicians, and industry professionals. Our festival is a melting pot of domestic and international movies, industry panels, networking events, and more.



Leaf Peeping in and Around Albuquerque

Autumn in the high desert is a spectacular display of colors. From the Rio Grande bosque to the Manzano Mountains, you don’t want to miss the impressive fall foliage in and around Albuquerque. Check out our roundup of the best spots for leaf peeping.

From the Rio Grande to the Manzano Mountains, you don’t want to miss central New Mexico’s impressive fall foliage. We’ve rounded up the best spots for leaf peeping in and around Albuquerque.

Fall is what locals refer to lovingly as the “magical season,” with near-perfect temperatures, the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, the smell of chile roasting filling the air and, of course, the beauty of fall foliage.



The Albuquerque Folk Festival

The Albuquerque Folk Festival offers over 100 events including 5 performance venues, 6 music and dance workshop venues, 2-3 Jam venues, a musical instrument petting zoo, arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, kids’ tent, merch booth, a consignment booth, a free instrument check area, a bike valet. Gates open at 10:00 am and close at 8:00 pm.



Albuquerque New Mexico fiesta clothing that has a hot air balloon and says Albuquerque Balloon Festival.

Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem










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