Chile peppers are a key ingredient in New Mexican cuisine. The sweetly spicy flavor can be ladled over enchiladas, wrapped into burritos or even added as a pizza topping. Autumn is peak harvesting season for chile, and you’ll find people roasting green chile throughout Albuquerque. Don’t miss out on this fragrant fall tradition.

TURN UP THE HEAT

Discover the “Red or Green?” Hot Air Balloon

Visit Albuquerque’s “Red or Green?” hot air balloon combines two beloved Albuquerque traditions: chile and ballooning. Learn more about what makes this balloon so special, and keep an eye out for it during this year’s Balloon Fiesta.

RED OR GREEN?

Your Guide to Visiting Albuquerque During Balloon Fiesta

If there is anything you want to know about Albuquerque or the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®, we’ve got you covered. Our ultimate guide has helpful tips and tricks for the best Balloon Fiesta experience, fun things to do while you’re here and delicious restaurants to try.

GET THE SCOOP

Leaf Peeping in and Around Albuquerque

Autumn in the high desert is a spectacular display of colors. From the Rio Grande bosque to the Manzano Mountains, you don’t want to miss the impressive fall foliage in and around Albuquerque. Check out our roundup of the best spots for leaf peeping.

SEE FALL COLORS

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Albuquerque

Hispanic Heritage Month starts Sept. 15. Celebrate the traditions and heritage of Albuquerque’s Hispanic community with a weekend itinerary that showcases the historic and modern Hispanic, Latin American, Spanish and Mexican cultures throughout the city.

CELEBRATE TODAY

Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival
Oct. 6-8, 12-15
GET CRAFTY »

ABQ Grecian Festival
Oct. 6-8
GREEK OUT »

Harvest Festival
Oct. 7-8
HARVEST THE FUN »

Albuquerque Folk Festival
Oct. 7
ENJOY THE MUSIC »

Lowrider Show
Oct. 11
GET LOW »

New Mexico Brew Fest
Oct. 14
TIME TO CHEERS »

ABQ Fermentation and Fungi Fest
Oct. 22
SEE IT YOURSELF »

Dia de los Muertos in Old Town
Oct. 27-Nov. 4
HONOR THE TRADITION »

Day of the Tread
Oct. 28-29
GRAB YOUR COSTUME »

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Inspire Your Next Visit

Not sure where to begin your visit to Albuquerque? Discover everything that makes the city special by ordering the Official Albuquerque Visitors Guide. From dining to attractions, it’s the perfect tool for planning your next Albuquerque getaway.

We’re excited to welcome you to Albuquerque! Use our trip-planning tools to design the perfect visit.