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Headed to Freedom Fourth? Here's what you need to know
Putting on an event like Freedom Fourth takes months of planning by the city of Albuquerque.
In the days leading up to the free public event, city officials take precautions to make sure it goes off without a hitch as thousands of New Mexicans will flock to Balloon Fiesta Park.
The annual event kicks off at 3 p.m. Tuesday and ends at 10 p.m., after the fireworks display.
According to Bree Ortiz, community events division manager, the event has the brightest fireworks show in the state along with food, local beer in The Cantina and children’s activities. Those activities include inflatable jumpers, two climbing walls, free face painting and more.
In recent years, the city has looked for country musicians to headline the event and this year is on par. Country singer Lindsay Ell is headlining the show. Ell is taking a break from her opening slot on Shania Twain’s tour to perform in Albuquerque.
Not a country fan? Don’t fret. There will be music about each hour until the fireworks show at 9:15 p.m.
The bands and groups slated to perform are The Fabulous Martini-Tones, Austin Van, Divino, New Mexico Gay Men’s Chorus and Albuquerque Fire Rescue Honor Guard.
The city also prepares plenty of ways for visitors to get to Balloon Fiesta Park.
By car, Balloon Fiesta Park can be accessed off of the Southbound Frontage Road to Balloon Fiesta Parkway, San Mateo Boulevard or Balloon Museum Drive. Parking is $10 and can be purchased at premiumparking.com/P4702.
The city is also offering free park and ride. Visitors can catch a bus from either Cottonwood Mall, 10000 Coors Bypass NW, on the West Side or Coronado Center, 6600 Menaul NE, in Uptown.
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Bus service to the event starts at 3 p.m. and ends at 7:30 p.m. Return trips to the two park and ride locations will begin immediately after the conclusion of the fireworks show. The last bus will leave Balloon Fiesta Park at 11 p.m.
A reminder: Tents and canopies are not allowed on park and ride buses.
If you’re biking to Freedom Fourth, take advantage of the free Bike Valet provided by the Esperanza Bicycle Education Center. Take the North Diversion Channel Trail to the northeast side of the Balloon Museum and look for the big yellow valet signs.
