Top Annual Festivals and Events in the Southwest

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

The view at dawn is breathtaking as dozens of glowing balloons light up the sky in an event that you are sure to remember. Moreover, throughout the day, you’ll get a chance to see giant “special shape” balloons, such as cows, smiling suns, and soda cans, and even take a turn going up in the basket yourself. Held annually in October, planning a trip to Albuquerque at this time is essential for an unforgettable experience.

Sundance Film Festival

If you’re into celebrity sightings, you can’t miss the chance to check out this incredible, internationally known festival that draws celebrities from around the world. It’s held every January in Park City, and you can expect screenings, parties, and lots of fun. However, if you can’t get tickets to the event, the star spotting experiences at popular Park City hotels such as Stein Eriksen Lodge, Montage Resort at Deer Valley, and Waldorf Astoria Park City are just as good.

Ride the Rockies

If you consider yourself an athletic type, put that to the test with Ride the Rockies, an annual weeklong bicycle tour that takes participants through the heart of the Colorado Rocky Mountains every June. There’s no more personal way to see this incredible part of the state, and the feeling of accomplishment you’ll experience at the end is priceless.

Art Santa Fe

Santa Fe is well known for its arts scene, showcasing everything from hand-painted pottery to gorgeous, perfectly crafted jewelry. This art scene is on full display during Art Santa Fe, a biannual celebration of the international contemporary art community held at the Convention Center in downtown Santa Fe. Therefore, it’s a special time to be there.

Austin City Limits Music Festival

Talk about a rockin’ good time. If you’re into music, you’ll definitely find an artist you like at the Austin City Limits Festival. This annual three-day fall event showcases more than 130 bands, with past performers including Bob Dylan, The Eagles, and Muse. One-day tickets and three-day passes are available for this incredibly popular festival.

Prescott Frontier Days

Touted as the “world’s oldest rodeo,” this annual event in Prescott, Arizona, has been attracting attention since 1888. Since then, it has grown into a weeklong tradition that includes a riding competition, crafts, cowboy church, and even a parade. Heading there with your sweetheart? There’s also a rodeo dance for couples.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon

You think you know Las Vegas? No matter how many times you’ve visited Sin City, chances are good you haven’t experienced it while running past all of its famous landmarks. Unless you’re a member of Cirque du Soleil or you’ve participated in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon. It’s worth taking a gamble on this fun event, which features live music and exciting characters throughout the race.

New Belgium Brewing Fruita Fat Tire Festival

If you enjoy beer and biking, this event is perfect for you. Held annually in the spring, this festival features displays from some of the best-known bicycle retailers in the country as well as a beer garden filled with plenty of refreshing beers. Additionally, there’s an associated bicycle race that attracts many adventurers.