High-flying thrills and stand-up laughs: Your Rio Rancho weekend preview

The City of Vision is kicking off April with a high-flying celebration as the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters arrive in Rio Rancho, anchoring a weekend of professional comedy, local markets and youth STEM programs.

From the hardwood of the Rio Rancho Events Center to community hubs on the city’s south side, here is what’s happening in and around Rio Rancho this weekend.

The Harlem Globetrotters 100-Year Tour

The marquee event of the week takes place Thursday as the Harlem Globetrotters bring their “100 Years of Thrills” celebration to the Rio Rancho Events Center.

• When: Thursday, April 2 at 7 p.m.
• Where: Rio Rancho Events Center, 3001 Civic Center Circle NE.
• Details: As part of their centennial tour, the world-famous team will showcase their signature blend of basketball artistry and comedy. The event also serves as the culmination of the city’s month-long “Iconic Sweatband” scavenger hunt.

Cabezon Shop Local Market

Local commerce takes center stage on Saturday as the Cabezon Shop Local Market returns, offering residents a chance to support small businesses and artisans in an outdoor setting.

• When: Saturday, April 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Where: Cabezon Park, 2307 Cabezon Blvd. SE.
• Details: This community market features a variety of local vendors selling handmade goods, artisanal food items and unique crafts. It is a family-friendly event designed to promote Rio Rancho’s homegrown entrepreneurs.

Solve or Sink: Titanic Escape Room

The Rio Rancho Public Library is offering a high-stakes interactive experience Saturday as “Solve or Sink: A Titanic Escape Room” opens at The HUB @ Enchanted Hills.

• When: Saturday, April 4, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Where: The HUB @ Enchanted Hills, 7845 Enchanted Hills Blvd.
• Details: Participants will be transported aboard the ill-fated Titanic, solving puzzles against the clock to determine if they would survive the fateful journey. The live-action game is free and open to ages 9 and up. Attendance is limited to groups of six and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Donnell Rawlings at Quezada’s

The star power continues through the weekend as comedian Donnell Rawlings takes the stage at Quezada’s Comedy Club. Known for his legendary roles on Chappelle’s Show and his numerous stand-up specials, Rawlings will perform four sets over two nights.

• When: Friday, April 3, and Saturday, April 4.
• Times: Shows are scheduled for 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. both nights.
• Where: Quezada’s Comedy Club & Cantina at Santa Ana Star.

STEM and Interactive Youth Programs

The Rio Rancho Public Library system has scheduled several hands-on events for students and families to kick off the month.

• Escape the Spaceship: The library is hosting a sci-fi-themed Escape Room on Friday, April 3, starting at 1 p.m. This event is designed for teens and tweens to solve puzzles in a race against the clock.
• Bookmobile at the Park: The city’s mobile services will be active on Friday, April 3, with the Bookmobile making scheduled stops at Zia Park from 9:30-10:30 a.m., at City Hall at 1 p.m., and at Broadmoor Senior Center at 2:30 p.m.