By Sara Atencio-Gonzales, The Paper. – The 11th Annual Great New Mexico Food Truck and Craft Beverage Festival is set to return to Balloon Fiesta Park on April 18, bringing a full day of food, drinks and entertainment to Albuquerque.
Hosted by Food Truck Festivals of America, the event has become one of the area’s most anticipated spring gatherings. This year marks a milestone for the festival, which continues to grow in popularity both locally and nationally.
Anthony Pepe, owner of Food Truck Festivals of America, says Albuquerque has become one of the standout locations for the event. “This is one of our best events and biggest events we do.”
The festival will feature more than 25 food trucks offering a wide range of options, including barbecue, pizza, tacos, Asian fusion and desserts. According to Pepe, some vendors have become longtime favorites among attendees.
“Kimo’s Hawaiian Barbecue has been with us from the start,” says Pepe. “Their food is fantastic.”
Other returning favorites include Busy Bee Frozen Yogurt, Los Pookies and Gourmet Doner Kebab, all of which Pepe highlights as must-try options for festivalgoers.
Beyond the food, the event offers a full festival atmosphere. Guests can expect live music, family-friendly activities and a large artisan market. “We do have live music there. We have a lot of kids stuff there, face painting and those sort of things,” says Pepe.
One of the biggest draws is the artisan market, which features more than 50 vendors selling handmade goods, crafts and specialty items. From candles to clothing and packaged foods, the market adds another layer to the overall experience.
The festival’s setting also plays a key role in its appeal. Pepe explains that Albuquerque offers a unique backdrop compared to other cities where the event is held. “Everywhere you look out there, you have mountains around you where it looks like a postcard,” says Pepe.
While food trucks have become more common across the country, Pepe emphasizes that bringing dozens together in one place creates something special. “Where can you go to an event to have 20 to 25 plus food trucks at one spot?” says Pepe.
Pepe adds that the experience goes beyond convenience, highlighting the quality of the food itself. “These are personal chefs. This isn’t fast food. This is food made to order,” says Pepe.
In addition to food, attendees can enjoy a variety of craft beverages, including local options from New Mexico. Steel Bender, Sierra Blanca, Lagunitas, Sandia Cider and Boxing Bear are just a few of the New Mexico brews on tap. The event also encourages a relaxed, picnic-style atmosphere where guests can bring chairs or blankets and spend the afternoon with friends and family.
With affordable ticket prices and free admission for kids 10 and under, the festival is designed to be accessible to a wide audience. “Load up the car with family and friends, and it’s an event like no other,” says Pepe.
The festival takes place Saturday, April 18, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., with early entry at 11 a.m. for VIP ticket holders, at Balloon Fiesta Park (5000 Balloon Fiesta Parkway NE). General admission is $5 in advance online and $10 at the gate, with free entry for children 10 and under and active military and veterans. Tickets and full event details are available through the Food Truck Festivals of America website. (foodtruckfestivalsofamerica.com)