5 Exciting Ways to Celebrate the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is back from Oct. 5- Oct. 13. The fun is infectious and several places around Albuquerque will have special events centered around the Balloon Fiesta.

1) Sips in the Park

From 11 a.m.- 3 p.m., Winrock Park will host Sips in the Park, a day that celebrates local vendors across Albuquerque. Attendees will be able to sample craft beverages from local breweries, wineries and distilleries. Non-alcoholic beverages will be available to sample as well. Guests will also have a selection of food trucks and over 40 vendors selling handcrafted goods from local artisans. Guests will also be able to enjoy live music performances from Vibestrong & Los Domgueros. Admission is $20 per person and can be purchased at www.holdmyticket.com

2) Cottonwood Mall

As one of the locations for Balloon Fiesta Park and Ride, Cottonwood Mall has no shortage of balloon themed fun. Grayskull Toys will host a Collector’s Zone Convention Oct. 4-6 in the mall’s center court, selling all things video game and toy related. On Oct. 12 and 13, Mitie Kreations will host a local maker’s market featuring several New Mexico artisans and entrepreneurs.

3) Balloon Fiesta week in Old Town

Old Town will celebrate every day from 12-4 p.m. Oct. 4- Oct. 13. The gazebo will have live music performances every day from local performers. Take a break from the Balloon Fiesta fun with some music and then tour around the 80 local businesses around Old Town.

4) Albuquerque American Indian Arts Festival

For guests visiting or locals who want to embrace New Mexico's southwestern culture, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is putting on the American Indian Arts Festival from 9a.m.- 5p.m. Oct. 5 and Oct. 6. The event will feature 50 artist vendors. The festival will have cultural dances and art demonstrations. General admission is $10 for residents and $12 for non-resident adults.

5) Balloon Fiesta Breakfast and Viewing

From 7:00 a.m.- 10 a.m. Oct. 5-12, Gruet Winery will host a breakfast buffet by Chef Michelle of Eatentions. Guests can enjoy the views from Balloon Fiesta from the comfort of their table. Tickets will include breakfast, coffee service and two mimosas per guest. Tickets are $65 and can be purchased on www.exploretock.com