The City of Albuquerque once again welcomes sweaty summer revelers to Balloon Fiesta Park for Freedom 4th, an Independence Day celebration packed with food, drinks, vendors, music and (of course) fireworks. Gates open at 3 p.m. Local bands play throughout the day. The headline act, Florida-based country singer Michael Ray, hits the stage at 7:45 p.m. Fireworks close out the night at dusk (around 9:15 p.m.) Food trucks, along with local beer and wine vendors, are on site to keep attendees full and happy. You can also bring your own cooler. Please leave glass, alcohol and grills at home, though. Admission is free, but parking at the Balloon Fiesta grounds will cost you $10. You can also use a Park & Ride shuttle from the Northwest Transit Center (10401 Ellison Dr. NW) or Coronado Center (west of Dick’s Sporting Goods on San Mateo). Sunscreen, hats and umbrellas are highly recommended! For more info, go to cabq.gov/artsculture/things-to-do/annual-events/freedom-4th.
