Albuquerque’s Expo grounds are doing double duty this weekend, with the Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Spring Fest and Monster Jam both packed into the same neighborhood. It’s a clean “park once, do both” setup that fits perfectly into a single day or split weekend.
Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Spring Fest
The Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Spring Fest brings a big lineup of makers to Expo New Mexico’s Lujan Exhibit Complex, with everything from paintings and photography to metal, wood, glass, leather, and jewelry. You can walk it like a big indoor market: rows of booths, plenty of chances to actually talk to the artists, and lots of New Mexico and Southwest themes represented.
What to expect:
- 100+ booths of handmade work, not mass-produced stuff.
- Indoor setup, so it’s an easy option if the weather flips.
- Food and drink on-site, live music in the background, and a family-friendly crowd.
Quick tips:
- Go earlier in the day if you like a slower pace and easier browsing.
- Bring a backpack or tote if you think you’ll buy prints or smaller pieces.
- Have cash and card; most vendors take both, but reception can be spotty at busy events.
Monster Jam at Tingley Coliseum
Right next door at Tingley Coliseum, Monster Jam is all about loud engines, dirt, and big-air trucks doing racing and freestyle runs. It’s a high-energy show built for families, gearheads, and anyone who wants some noise after a quiet workweek.
What to expect:
- Multiple shows across the weekend, including at least one daytime event that’s easier with kids.
- Big-name trucks, driver intros, racing, skills competition, and freestyle.
- A pit party session before certain shows where you can walk on the track and see the trucks up close.
Quick tips:
- Bring ear protection—especially for kids—but honestly it helps adults too.
- Plan to arrive early; parking at Expo can jam up when both events overlap.
- If you’re doing the pit party, give yourself extra time to get through lines and still hit concessions before the main show.
How to run both in one outing
Because both events share the Expo New Mexico area, you can easily stack them:
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Day first, night second:
- Hit the arts festival earlier in the day when you’ve got more patience for walking and browsing.
- Grab food on-site or nearby, then head over to Tingley for the evening Monster Jam show.
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Family split plan:
- One block for “slow” time at the art fest (kids’ activities, browsing, snacks).
- One block for “loud” time at Monster Jam, then back home with everyone tired in a good way.
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Parking game:
- Expect a wait both in and out if both events overlap in time.
- Pay attention to the lot attendants—they’ll sometimes direct traffic differently depending on which event you’re going to.
Verify all info. Just trying to help the hood.
