Albuquerque Music Fiesta adds Russell Dickerson, new evening format

The 2026 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has added country singer Russell Dickerson to its Music Fiesta lineup and shifted the event into an evening format tied to the Night Magic Glow. Organizers say the new structure is meant to blend live music with the glow and fireworks for a single nighttime experience.

Music Fiesta will be folded into the evening programming, including the Night Magic Glow powered by ExxonMobil and the AfterGlow Fireworks Show, according to event officials. Dasha will open for Dickerson, and New Mexico’s Nathaniel Krantz will kick off the night.

Dickerson headlines with six No. 1 hits, including “Yours,” “Blue Tacoma,” “Love You Like I Used To” and his latest chart-topper, “Happen to Me,” along with more than four billion career streams.

“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, stated 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 night ends with the Sandia Resort & Casino drone light show and the AfterGlow Fireworks Show. Gates open Saturday, Oct. 10 at 3 p.m. with a live DJ by KRST, followed by Krantz at 4 p.m., the Team Fastrax Skydiving demonstration sponsored by Accident Insurance Company, Inc. at 5 p.m., Dasha at 5:30 p.m., Night Magic Glow at 6:30 p.m., Dickerson at 7:30 p.m., the drone show at 9 p.m. and fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

Ticket levels include the Balloons & Beats Lawn at $30, the ABQ Dance Box 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 went on sale Friday, Aug. 7 at 10 a.m. A separate General Admission ticket is required for entry into Balloon Fiesta Park.