Albuquerque New Mexico Wine Festival

Over Memorial Day weekend, you can spend a day tasting New Mexico wine at the Albuquerque New Mexico Wine Festival at Balloon Fiesta Park in the North Valley. Dozens of local wineries pour on site, including Sheehan Winery, Noisy Water, and Luna Rossa, with more than 200 reds, whites, and sparkling selections to sample. Between pours, you can browse an artisan market and settle in for live sets, with bands like JJ Flash anchoring the soundtrack.

Expect an easygoing, well-run layout of tasting tents set against clear views of the Sandia Mountains, plus plenty of room to spread out on the grass. Saturday afternoon tends to be the liveliest window at the main stage, and if you want a quieter pace we recommend the Reserve Wine Experience for shaded seating and elevated pours. Food vendors keep it simple and satisfying with picnic-ready options that pair well with tasting flights.

Plan to arrive around 11:30 AM to avoid the longest entry lines, especially on Saturday when upgrades can sell out first. Tickets run about $35 at the gate, though advance pricing is often lower, and designated driver tickets are usually available at a reduced rate. Dress for high-altitude sun with breathable layers and strong sunscreen, bring a factory-sealed water bottle, and consider a small folding chair or blanket for comfortable seating. For a smooth exit, rideshare is your best bet since parking can bottleneck.

This is strictly a 21+ event, with no children, infants, or pets allowed inside the festival grounds. The weekend runs rain or shine, and if the park hits capacity, entry may pause, another reason to come early. You can purchase bottles to take home, and most wineries offer bottle check so you can keep your hands free. For convenient lodging, look in the North Valley or Journal Center, or choose a more scenic base near the Rio Grande Bosque, and you can also compare vacation rentals through Lake.com.