Albuquerque, New Mexico

Every October thousands of shoppers from all over the world attend the Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Festival, which takes place at the same time as Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta.  This juried show features the work of 280 fine artists and craftspeople from throughout the U.S., offering tourists and residents a unique, world-class art experience.  The people of Albuquerque recognize the show by the landmark ‘Big White Tent’ – These soaring white peaks span one full acre of space. Crowds of shoppers return year after year to experience an art festival under a hot air balloon dotted sky, bustling with 280 talented exhibitors from all over the map. In addition to a fantastic juried artist lineup and lively crowds, the festival features entertainment and music in the outdoor pavilion, good eats, artist demonstrations, complimentary activities for kids, and samples of food and wine!

For its 26th year, the Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Festival is picking up its huge tent and moving it to a fabulous new location, the 17 acre racetrack infield at Expo New Mexico!  This well-known location offers easy access from I-40, less Balloon Fiesta traffic, visibility from Louisiana Blvd, and an expansion of the festival’s parking lot by nearly double. And, Grande Pass and Festival Pass holders will enjoy free return parking!  The festival will make a grand entrance, with active horse races surrounding the event and a stunning panoramic view of the Sandia Mountains.