Russell Dickerson to headline Albuquerque Music Fiesta
Multi-platinum country artist Russell Dickerson will headline the 2026 Music Fiesta at Balloon Fiesta Park in Albuquerque, the ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta announced. The event will be folded into the Night Magic Glow powered by ExxonMobil and the AfterGlow Fireworks Show.
Dasha will open for Dickerson. Nathaniel Krantz, described as a New Mexico native, will kick off Music Fiesta with country favorites and original music.
The evening closes with a drone light show sponsored by Sandia Resort & Casino, followed by the AfterGlow Fireworks show.
“We are excited to bring Music Fiesta back with a fresh new format, fully integrated with one of our signature events. By combining live music into the Night Magic Glow, we’re creating a more dynamic and immersive experience that enhances Music Fiesta for our pilots and patrons while celebrating the unique atmosphere that defines our venue,” Julie Morgas Baca, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta executive director, said in a news release. “It’s an exciting evolution of a beloved tradition, and we look forward to welcoming guests for an unforgettable evening of music, lights, and community.”
The event takes place Saturday, Oct. 10. Gates open at 3 p.m. with a live DJ by KRST, followed by Krantz at 4 p.m., Team Fastrax Skydiving sponsored by Accident Insurance Company, Inc. at 5 p.m., and Dasha at 5:30 p.m. The Night Magic Glow is set for 6:30 p.m., with Dickerson at 7:30 p.m. The drone light show is scheduled for 9 p.m., with fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
Ticket levels include the Balloons & Beats Lawn at $30, where chairs are welcome; the ABQ Dance Box standing area at $55; and the Ultimate Glow & Groove VIP at $300, which includes a reserved seat, private restrooms, a signed Music Fiesta poster, a VIP badge and a Balloon Fiesta swag bag.
Tickets go on sale Friday, Aug. 7 at 10 a.m. A separate General Admission ticket is required for entry into Balloon Fiesta Park.
Dickerson’s setlist draws from six No. 1 hits, including “Yours,” “Blue Tacoma,” “Love You Like I Used To” and his latest chart-topper, “Happen to Me,” with more than four billion career streams.
