NRGNHA News:
ALCALDE — The Northern Río Grande National Heritage Area (NRGNHA) has announced the inaugural Río Grande Sky Fiesta, set to take place Nov. 2-3, 2024, at the Los Luceros Historic Site in Alcalde.
This two-day event will celebrate the beauty and culture of Northern New Mexico with spectacular hot air balloon ascensions, a stunning balloon glow, delicious local food and vibrant community spirit.
The Río Grande Sky Fiesta is more than just a ballooning event. It’s a unique opportunity to experience Northern New Mexico’s breathtaking landscapes while celebrating the cultural heritage that defines our region. Guests will have the chance to witness mass balloon ascensions and an evening balloon glow and enjoy offerings from local food and craft vendors, all against the layout of the historic Los Luceros site.
The weekend will kick off with mass balloon ascensions, where colorful balloons will fill the sky over the Río Grande from 7:15-10 a.m., Saturday, and from 6:15 a.m. to 9 a.m., Sunday. Participants will view the special shape Zozobra balloon, can savor unique regional flavors from local food vendors, explore offerings from craft vendors, and stay the day to explore the grounds of Los Luceros or the nearby Dixon Studio Tour before returning for the balloon glow from 4:30-8 p.m., Saturday evening, where balloons will light up the night, creating a magical experience for attendees of all ages.
“We are incredibly excited to bring this inaugural hot air balloon event to Northern New Mexico,” Eric Vasquez, Director of NRGNHA said. “Hot air balloons are part of our culture here in New Mexico, and it feels fitting to celebrate this tradition in the heart of Northern New Mexico, with the stunning backdrop of Los Luceros and the Río Grande. This event offers a special opportunity for our community to come together, celebrate our shared heritage, and create new memories in this beautiful place.”
Attendees are encouraged to explore the Los Luceros Historic Site after the mass ascension, one of New Mexico’s most scenic and historically rich locations. This 148-acre ranch, nestled along the east bank of the Río Grande, offers a window into New Mexico’s past and a perfect setting for this new annual tradition. Visitors attending the Sky Fiesta may also visit the nearby Dixon Studio Tour during the middle of the day and come back for the balloon glow on Saturday evening at no extra charge. Guests can also take advantage of special room rates at the Ohkay Hotel & Casino, providing convenient accommodations for those participating in the event.
Tickets for the Río Grande Sky Fiesta are now available for $10 apiece, with admission providing all-day access to explore Los Luceros, and can be purchased online at https://riograndeskyfiesta.com. We invite everyone—locals and visitors alike—to participate in this nostalgic event.
Sponsors
The Río Grande Sky Fiesta is made possible in part from the generous support of our sponsors, including the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division, Ohkay Casino/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, New Mexico Historic Sites, and Century Bank. We extend our deepest gratitude to these organizations for their commitment to promoting cultural preservation and supporting community-driven events in Northern New Mexico.
About NRGNHA
The Northern Río Grande National Heritage Area is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and protecting the culture, heritage, language, and environment of Northern New Mexico. Through collaborative outreach and cultural education, the NRGNHA works to enhance economic growth, increase awareness of the region’s shared heritage, and advance community development. The organization provides grant opportunities for projects that align with its mission to ensure that the unique cultural and natural resources of the Northern Río Grande area are preserved for future generations.