Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a city pulsating with artistic expression and cultural diversity. Throughout the year, the city hosts a variety of festivals and events that showcase its rich heritage and creative spirit.
Annual Festivals and Events
SOMOS ABQ
SOMOS ABQ is a one-day celebration of Albuquerque’s creative soul, featuring live music, immersive art, roving performances, and community engagement. The festival highlights local legends and luminous installations, offering activities for all ages. In 2025, the event included three stages of live music, large-scale art installations, family workshops, and a sunset dance party. For more information, visit SOMOS ABQ.
Hear Here Festival
The Hear Here Festival is a two-week collaborative residency and annual festival held in Albuquerque. It provides a platform for local musicians, poets, and choreographers to develop and present new works within a concentrated period. Artists are paired blindly and have two weeks to create original pieces together. The festival aims to support Albuquerque artists and foster new relationships within the community. Details can be found at Hear Here Festival.
Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festivals
The Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festivals are a series of juried art shows held throughout the year, including the Spring Fest, Balloon Festival Show, and Holiday Festival. These events feature hundreds of artists and craftsmen from across the nation, offering a unique shopping experience alongside live music and local cuisine. More information is available at Rio Grande Festivals.
Muertos y Marigolds
Muertos y Marigolds is an annual Día de los Muertos celebration and marigold procession held in Albuquerque’s South Valley. The event includes community art workshops, a procession, and a celebration featuring local artists and performers. It aims to keep the tradition alive and empower community voices through the arts. Learn more at Muertos y Marigolds.
¡Globalquerque!
¡Globalquerque! is an annual music festival held each September at the National Hispanic Cultural Center. The festival features musicians from around the world, along with workshops, films, and a Global Village of Craft, Culture & Cuisine. It provides a platform for international artists and promotes cultural exchange. More details can be found at ¡Globalquerque!.
Native Guitars Tour
The Native Guitars Tour hosts the ‘Under the Native Stars’ festival in Albuquerque, coinciding with the annual Gathering of Nations Powwow. This one-day event showcases Indigenous musical artists, creating a space that strengthens community bonds while highlighting Indigenous creativity. The festival includes live music, a vendor village, and community partnerships. Visit Native Guitars Tour for more information.
Ongoing Cultural Events
ABQ Artwalk
The ABQ Artwalk is a monthly event that supports local artists and businesses in Downtown Albuquerque. It features exhibitions, live music, performances, and live art-making, encouraging exploration of the city’s creative essence. Each month offers a different experience, and updates can be found at Downtown Albuquerque MainStreet.
Downtown Growers’ Market
The Downtown Growers’ Market operates every Saturday through November at Robinson Park. It supports local agriculture and small businesses, offering a variety of farmers, food makers, artisans, and health & wellness creators. The market includes live music and community spirit. More details are available at Downtown Albuquerque MainStreet.
Albuquerque’s arts and culture scene is a testament to the city’s rich heritage and creative energy. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these festivals and events offer a glimpse into the vibrant community that makes Albuquerque unique.