October is one of our favorite times of year in Albuquerque. The weather cools down, the city comes alive with visitors, and the skies fill with colorful hot air balloons for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
And while the balloons may be the main attraction, there’s plenty happening on the ground, especially here in Historic Old Town.
At Church Street Cafe, we love being part of the energy that makes Old Town such a special place to visit. If you’re coming to Albuquerque for Balloon Fiesta this October, make some time to wander through Old Town, enjoy local food, listen to live music, shop independent businesses, and experience some of the unique cultural events happening throughout the month.
Here are a few October events to add to your itinerary.
Balloon Fiesta Week in Old Town
Balloon Fiesta Week in Old Town runs October 1–11, 2026, bringing live music and cultural performances to Historic Old Town every day from noon to 4 p.m.
After watching the morning balloon launch, head to Old Town and keep the celebration going. The Gazebo will feature local performers throughout the week, showcasing the incredible musical and cultural talent Albuquerque has to offer.
It’s also a great opportunity to slow down and explore everything Old Town has to offer. With more than 150 independent businesses, you’ll find galleries, boutiques, museums, restaurants, and plenty of places to grab a drink or a bite to eat.
And, of course, we’d love to see you at Church Street Cafe while you’re here.
Come hungry, take your time, and make Old Town part of your Balloon Fiesta experience.
Discover New Mexico’s Local Music
If you love live music, October is an especially good time to visit Old Town.
The Balloon Fiesta New Mexico Musicians Showcase brings local musicians to Old Town throughout Balloon Fiesta week. The showcase is a chance to hear talented New Mexico performers while enjoying the unique atmosphere of one of Albuquerque’s most historic neighborhoods.
There’s something special about experiencing Balloon Fiesta beyond the launch field. After watching balloons fill the morning sky, spend the afternoon exploring Old Town and listening to the sounds of New Mexico.
Grab lunch, stroll through the plaza, browse the shops and galleries, and let the afternoon unfold.
That’s one of the things we love most about Old Town—it gives you a chance to experience Albuquerque at a slower, more personal pace.
Looking Ahead: Día de los Muertos in Old Town
As October comes to a close, Old Town transforms once again for one of the area’s most meaningful celebrations.
Día de los Muertos in Old Town takes place October 30 through November 8, 2026, bringing music, dance, art, culture, and remembrance to the historic district.
One of the highlights is the Marigold Mile, where vibrant marigolds help create a beautiful path through Old Town. Visitors can discover colorful ofrendas, enjoy cultural performances, and experience traditions that celebrate the lives and memories of loved ones.
The 2026 celebration will also include Family Days, a Catrina Procession, the return of the Matachines, a candlelight procession, the Globitos Candlelight Glow featuring towering model hot air balloons, and Plaza de los Recuerdos, where community-built ofrendas will be displayed.
It’s a beautiful reminder that in Old Town, the history and culture of New Mexico are not simply something you see—they’re something you experience.
Make a Day of It in Old Town
If you’re visiting Albuquerque for Balloon Fiesta, don’t limit your experience to the balloon field.
Come explore Old Town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or lunch, discover local shops and galleries, listen to New Mexico musicians, and take in the history and architecture that make this neighborhood such an important part of Albuquerque.
And while you’re exploring, stop by Church Street Cafe for a meal and a little taste of New Mexico hospitality.
From Balloon Fiesta Week to Día de los Muertos, October is a wonderful time to experience everything that makes Old Town Albuquerque special.
We’ll see you here!
Plan Your October Visit
Balloon Fiesta Week in Old Town
October 1–11, 2026 | Live music and cultural performances daily, noon–4 p.m.
Balloon Fiesta New Mexico Musicians Showcase
October 2–11, 2026 | Local New Mexico musicians throughout Balloon Fiesta week
Día de los Muertos in Old Town
October 30–November 8, 2026 | Music, art, culture, ofrendas, processions, and more
