Started in 1989 at the intersection of Paseo & I-25, this art show has grown into a cornerstone of Albuquerque’s attractions during the Balloon Fiesta. This particular Rio Grande Festival is one of the most renowned art festivals in the region, most recently being ranked #4 in the USA for Top Fine Art Shows of the Decade (Sunshine Artist Magazine). The legendary ‘big white tent’ has a completely unique marketplace atmosphere – bordered on one side by Sandia Resort’s modern Pueblo architecture and a PGA-level golf course on the other. Set in the heart of the action at the same intersection as the Balloon Fiesta itself, views of the hot air balloons floating overhead in the mornings do not disappoint!

From pottery & paintings to jewelry & textiles, there is a little something for everyone – from the new art enthusiast to the experienced collector.  In addition to shopping the 200 booths of artwork & fine craft, attendees enjoy live music, cocktails, a culinary market, kids’ entertainment, and food vendors.

Dates & Times:

Friday – Sunday | October 6-8
Thursday – Sunday | October 12-15

After the balloons go up!
Doors open at 9 daily. The festival closes at 5 each day, except the final Sunday (10/15), it concludes at 3. 

Admission:

• $13 Day Pass >> Purchase Tickets!
• $12 Senior 65+ & Military Day Pass (available at the door with ID)
• $20 Festival Pass – admission to all show days for both weekends (non-transferrable, available at the door).
  
• $35 Grande Pass – unlimited admission to both Rio Grande shows (this event and The Holiday Show). Free parking at Expo New Mexico included. (Non-transferrable, available at the door).

Children under 12 are FREE!

Location:

This festival takes place at Sandia Resort & Casino, in the big white tent near I-25 & Tramway! 30 Rainbow Road, Albuquerque NM 87113

Parking & Handicapped Accessibility:

Parking is free, and it’s in the parking garage across the street from the tent. there is handicapped parking on the west side of the tent (look for flags). Complimentary golf cart shuttles run back and forth from the lots to the tent entrance. While this event is handicap accessible, please note that there is unpaved natural terrain surrounding the tent. Inside the tent is fully carpeted with turf, but there are imperfections. If you are riding with someone who is handicapped, you may drop them off at the shuttle tent. 

Directions:

If you’re coming from Santa Fe, head South on I-25 to Albuquerque, exit Tramway and turn left at the light. Go East on Tramway and you will see Sandia Resort on your left. Take a left on Rainbow Road into the resort, and follow the signs to the parking garage.

If you’re coming from the south side of Albuquerque, head North on I-25, exit Tramway and turn right at the light. Go East on Tramway and you will see Sandia Resort on your left. Take a left on Rainbow Road into the resort, and follow the signs to the parking garage.

Pet Policy:

Service animals only.

Want to map out your visit to your favorite booths? View our official festival program!

Vendors may be participating in both weekends or a single weekend. The color coded dots on the program clarify this.

For a sneak peek to see who is participating in our 2023 event visit our gallery

Are you an artist or craftsman interested in showcasing your work at one of our festivals? Please click here for applications & opportunities.

The Pop Co – Cake Pops and more
Mountain Man Gourmet – Chile Spice Blends
Adventurist Soap Co. – Body Care Products
Syrupology – Gourmet Maple Syrup
Tea’ze A More LLC – Gourmet Teas
Bee Chama Honey – Raw Varietal Honey
Celina’s Biscochitos – New Mexican Cookies
Sun Mountain Bath Co. – Soaps & Body Products
Tularosa Pistachio Groves – Homegrown NM Pictacios
Bison Star Naturals – Body Care Products
True Honey Teas – Gourmet Teas
All Of Us – Soup & Dip Mixes
Pastamore – Balsamics, Olive Oils & Pastas
New Mexico Sabor – Award-winning NM Salsa
Laughing Turtle Soap Co. – Body Care Products
Martha’s Body Bueno – Body Care Products
Enchanted Sugar – Sustainable Handmade Candles

2023’s lineup will feature the following entertainers & musicians onstage: View stage schedule here. 

• Watermelon Mountain Jug Band
• Group Therapy
• Fabulous Martini Tones
• Bad Habit & The Enablers
• Syd Masters Duo
• Turquoise Blues Band
• Mezcla Latina
• Jazz Brasiliero
• Mariachi Fiesta Internacional
• 2 Dime Shift
• Oscar Butler
• Ronaldo Baca
• Sid Fendley
• Larry Freedman
• John Polinko Magic

Grab a bite from one of New Mexico’s favorite food trucks & eateries! There’s also a full bar inside the big white tent.

• Platero’s Fry Bread & Navajo Tacos
• Busy Bee Frozen Custard
• The Sugabom 
• Rollin’ In Hot
• Sandia Frito Pie & Snack Shack