A unique melding of cultures
Albuquerque, New Mexico's largest city, has a population of 550,000. A synergy of Native American, Hispanic and Anglo cultures gives Albuquerque both traditional and modern touches. Since the population in the city is relatively young and diverse, Albuquerque is full of fun and exciting things to do!
Geography and location:
- Located on the banks of the beautiful Rio Grande River and at the base of the majestic Sandia Peaks, the Albuquerque area is loaded with scenic views and recreational opportunities.
- Albuquerque has an elevation of 5,000 feet and is located in the Chihuahuan Desert, making the air dry and the vegetation reflect the unique requirements of high desert plants.
Albuquerque's ideal climate:
Albuquerque is a great place to visit at any time of year, as the weather is always perfect for various exciting activities! Spring and fall offer the most mild weather, and this is the time of year for most city festivals and events (though these occur during every month of the year!). Summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees, but the shady cottonwood trees provide respite and the nights are surprisingly cool. Winter brings ski season, and snow lovers flock to the Albuquerque area's many mountain resorts from November to March. Albuquerque is one of the sunniest cities in the U.S., and is close to mountains and rivers that provide year-round outdoor activities.
Some special events in Albuquerque:
- New Mexico State Fair: September; PRCA rodeos, live music, Native American dancing, horse racing, midway rides, demonstrations and food.
- International Balloon Festival: October; events, competitions, evening hot air balloon mass illumination.
- Founders Day: April; celebrates the city's settlement in 1706. (Albuquerque is still often called "Duke City" because it was originally named after the Duke of Albuquerque, the viceroy of New Spain.)
- Gathering of Nations PowWow: April; "Miss Indian World" Contest, arts & crafts, dance competitions.
- Outdoor Concerts: Throughout the spring and summer; SummerFest, Zoo Music, Jazz & Salsa Under the Stars Series.
An Albuquerque Legend: The Haunted KiMo Theater:
Built in 1927 in a unique fusion of Pueblo Deco and Art Deco styles, this performing arts building is known to be haunted by several spirits. There is an apparition of a woman in a bonnet often seen wandering the halls; a 6-year-old boy named Bobby who died in a boiler room explosion in the theater in 1951; and perhaps most famous of all, a doughnut-loving ghost who ruins performances if a supply of doughnuts is not hung from the water pipe along the back wall, behind the stage. The KiMo Theater is spectacular to see just for its architectural wonders and Indian theme throughout, but the mystery and legend of its haunted inhabitants makes the place even more enthralling to visit.
