Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Albuquerque Folk Festival?

A participatory festival where you can learn how to sing, dance and play or just jam with other musicians to your heart's content. Plus, great entertainment! See the Festival Schedule for more information.

When is it?

Sunday, September 29, 2024

On Sunday, gates open at 10am with performances and workshops from 10am until 8pm.

Where is it?

National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102 (map)

Who's playing?

Check out our list here.

How much does it cost?
  • $25 at the gate ($20 if purchased in advance)
  • There are special rates for students, military, seniors, kids, and families. See our Ticket Info page for details.
Where can I buy advanced tickets?

Paper tickets available at the National Hispanic Cultural Center (NHCC) Welcome Center: 1701 4th St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

Advance tickets at all levels may be purchased online through the NHCC

It is important to buy tickets ONLY from NHCC. There are ticket scammers trying to scam tickets for all events.

Can kids come?

Absolutely! There are plenty of activities especially for kids, including a special venue for kids, a place where kids can try out various musical instruments, giant puppets and stilt walkers roaming the grounds, and more. And kids under 12 get in free!

Is there a secure place for bicycles?

Yes, there'll be a bike locking station available near the Courtyard Stage. Lock your bike (with your own lock) at one of several bike racks located on the grass near the Courtyard Stage in the center of the grounds.

Do I have to pay for parking?

No! Free parking will be available at the National Hispanic Cultural Center and on streets within easy walking distance.

Can I go in and out?

Yes! You'll get a wristband when you enter, so you can leave and come back as often as you'd like. But why not stay all day?

Is there food available?

Food trucks will be available (here's a list). There will be chairs and tables for your eating comfort.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes!

But please don't bring glass containers or alcoholic beverages.

And any backpacks/other bags are subject to search.

I'm from out of town. Where can I stay?

We're not recommending any particular hotel, but there are many along I-40 and I-25. If you're okay with Google, you can look here. Note, however, that hotel rooms will be at a premium because of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

If you'd prefer to camp, check Google.

I play (name your musical instrument). Can I bring it to the Festival?

Yes! Not only can you bring an instrument, but you get $5 off the gate ticket price when you buy your ticket! (Note: can’t be combined with other discounts.) You can jam all day long, both at our two jamming venues, and casually around the grounds. And you can check you can check your instrument at our free instrument check room until 8:30 pm.

What other things should I bring to the Festival?

  • Sunscreen (or at least put some on before you arrive). All the venues are inside or under tents, but you'll be out in the sun walking between venues.

  • A water bottle. You'll be able to buy drinks from our vendors, but to keep hydrated all day, bring a water bottle and refill it at the indoor water coolers.

  • Cash. There are vendor booths and food trucks and t-shirts and raffle tickets.

Can I bring my dog?

Sorry, no dogs (except certified aid dogs) are allowed on the Festival grounds.

What is your COVID-19 policy?

AFF will follow State Guidelines at the time of the festival, but participants are encouraged to get the new booster, to follow safe masking guidelines, to test before attending events, and to stay home if they have any symptoms.

Check our Covid Vaccination Policy page for full details and for additional updates. Check there before heading out to the festival grounds.