As seasons change, it’s time to start gearing up for some fun fall activities in Albuquerque. Whether you’re looking for some family fun or something spooky to get you in the Halloween spirit, there is no shortage of fun to be had. So, keep reading to find out about all of the fun fall activities in Albuquerque that you won’t want to miss out on.
New Mexico State Fair
When: September 7th-17th
Where: The Expo Grounds – Albuquerque, NM
First up on our list of fall activities in Albuquerque is the New Mexico State Fair. Since 1938, the New Mexico State Fair has been the favorite gathering place for New Mexicans to celebrate local food, competition, culture, creativity, and rich agricultural heritage. Located just five miles east of downtown Albuquerque at EXPO NM, the New Mexico State Fair has consistently been in the top 5 ranked fairs in the nation based on affordability, programming, and weather. The New Mexico State Fair is the Biggest Show in New Mexico, attracting over 500,000 annual attendees.
Spectaculars at the New Mexico State Fair
New Mexico State Fair spectaculars are just that, spectacular! This year they have some family favorites as well as several brand new attractions that are sure to thrill and excite. Though some spectaculars can be found in specific areas of the fairgrounds, be sure to keep an eye out as they also have several roaming spectaculars as well.
The Strolling Piano
The Strolling Piano entertains audiences of all ages coast to coast with the most captivating grounds attraction. This revolutionary concept combines the classic and sophisticated nature of a pianist/singer with the flexibility of a strolling musician. You can catch the Strolling Piano driving around the fairgrounds while pumping out some amazing tunes.
The Great American Duck Races
The Great American Duck Race features live mallard ducks racing on a water track. You may be one of the lucky few chosen to hold and release one of the world’s fastest mallards into its racing lane. Prizes are awarded to all winners. These ducks have been featured on the Tonight Show, Wall Street Journal, and People Magazine. It will definitely quack you up! After all, “you can’t watch a duck race without smiling”.
Jason D’Vaude – The Circus Man
Dangerous objects, perilous stunts, and feats of strength and balance are all on display in this performance. Jason D’Vaude, a self-taught one-man circus sensation, brings his comedic juggling, fire, and clowning shows to audiences around the world. Come to see Jason juggle sharp objects, climb up precariously balanced objects, ride an extra-tall unicycle, or manipulate fire like a master. It’ll leave you speechless!
Stilt Circus
Stilt Circus is a 3-time award-winning company. Their world-class performers have delighted audiences on multiple continents with their surreal blend of dazzling crowd interaction and feats of exceedingly tall skills for over 2 decades. Stilt Circus looks forward to returning to the 2023 New Mexico State Fair and will be gliding through the fairground with festive Stilt Artistry finding both the young and young-at-heart. Star and Rich will be presenting a different handcrafted costume/character each day of the fair. So, go find them and get your picture taken with the tall friends at the Stilt Circus!
Petting Farm
The Petting Farm is a unique attraction allowing animal lovers to interact with the animals in the barrier-free pen. Fairgoers get an up close and personal experience with cute and cuddly animals of all kinds. Feel free to touch and see what a truly unique, hands-on exhibit the petting zoo really is.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
When: October 7th-15th
Where: Balloon Fiesta Park – Albuquerque, NM
Up next on our list of fall activities in Albuquerque is the International Balloon Fiesta. Any local will tell you that October is the most beautiful time of year in New Mexico, made so in large part by the much-anticipated sight of colorful balloons in the sky. Spectacular balloons aren’t the only sight to behold at the International Balloon Fiesta. Here, you’ll also be able to see drone light shows, the chainsaw carving auction & exhibition, skydivers, the Fiesta of Wheels Car Show, fireworks, and more!
New Mexico Brew Fest
When: October 14th from 1-6pm
Where: Villa Hispana at EXPO New Mexico
Another one of the many fall activities in Albuquerque to check out is the New Mexico Brew Fest. This event is held during the aforementioned Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The New Mexico Brew Fest is expecting thousands of thirsty craft beer lovers to convene for a day of tasting award-winning New Mexican craft beer, ciders, and spirits. This highly-anticipated annual event also boasts fare from a variety of food trucks, an always engaging live music line-up, and yard games all on the beautiful backdrop of New Mexico’s signature fall weather. Upon entry, you’ll get a glass that you can take to the vendors for a complimentary sample. There will be 20+ beer, cider, and spirits vendors at the New Mexico Brew Fest.
Day of the Tread
When: October 29th (Opening Ceremony at 8am)
Where: The Sawmill District – Albuquerque, NM
Continuing down our list of fall activities in Albuquerque is the Day of the Tread. Day of the Tread is a Day of the Dead/Halloween-themed bicycling event for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. This event offers a tailored experience with the option to choose from 7, 12, 18, 23, 47, 61, and 100 miles of cycling fun from the Sawmill District to Old Town Albuquerque. Proceeds from the event benefit the Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation’s Youth Adaptive Sports programs, summer camps, virtual camps, and more.
Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway
Another choice of fall activities in Albuquerque is taking a ride on the Aerial Tramway. The 2.7-mile ascent on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway to the 10,378-foot peak of the Sandia Mountains is a thrilling, can’t-miss attraction. Once atop the peak, the view is a panorama of more than 11,000 square miles of spectacular beauty. At night, the city lights below sparkle like a million jewels.
Planning on stopping by Cinder? Order online for easy in-store pick-up!
Please consume responsibly. For use only by adults 21 and older; Keep out of reach of children; Additionally, this product is not approved by the FDA to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Further, the FDA has not evaluated this product for safety, effectiveness, and quality; Do not drive a motor vehicle or operate machinery while under the influence of cannabis; In addition, there may be long-term adverse health effects from consumption of cannabis, including additional risks for women who are or may become pregnant or are breastfeeding.