In Albuquerque, Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) celebrations take place over several weeks in October and November, although the holiday is traditionally celebrated between October 31st and November 2nd.

Families remember deceased loved ones and honor them by building offering altars (ofrendas) where sugar skulls are placed, along with offerings of pan de muertos (bread). The holiday is festive although the subject may not be, as spirits are welcomed back into peoples' lives for another year.

The Marigold Parade and Festival takes place in Albuquerque's South Valley on the first Sunday in November.

The 2016 theme is Sheep don't Vote - feed the chupacabra - ¡Reclamando nuestra querencia!

“Desert Kaleidoscope” Launches October 1-9, 2016

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® will launch from Balloon Fiesta Park, October 1-9, 2016. The 45^th annual event will feature more than 500 hot air balloons, of which nearly a hundred are anticipated to be special shape balloons. Pilots from all over the world have been invited to fly in the popular international event. The 2016 event theme is “Desert Kaleidoscope,” a title chosen by a Balloon Fiesta guest.

The Balloon Fiesta’s five morning mass ascensions launch both weekends (October 1-2, 8-9) and mid-week (October 5).  Other favorite events include the Balloon Glows, Special Shape Rodeo and Music Fiesta. See the complete schedule.