52 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2016 Media Guide Did You Know? Recognized as one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country, Albuquerque’s ethnic tapestry is reflected in its architecture, artwork, cultural centers and cuisine. Countless customs and traditions are a vibrant part of daily life in the city, making Albuquerque the cultural capital of the Southwest. From balloon-filled skies to neon-lit streets, give your best shots the chance to be featured on our @VisitABQ social pages by tagging your photos with the hashtag #TrueABQ. Did you know that the Balloon Fiesta is the world’s most photographed event? Commemorate your visit to the 50th Fiesta with a photo inside Albuquerque’s life-sized picture frame. The frame is located midfield at the Albuquerque Visitor Information Booth . VisitABQ.org FREE PHOTO BOOTH The Albuquerque metro area has just over 920,000 residents . The city spans 187 square miles at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 6,500 feet above sea level . The breakfast burrito is said to have originated at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® in the 1970s. The Sandia Mountains on the city’s east side rise to more than 10,600 feet in elevation and turn a watermelon pink color at sunset . The official New Mexico state question is, “Red or Green?” referring to red or green chile when ordering New Mexican cuisine. For those who want both red and green chile, tell the server, “Christmas.” 1 2 3 4 5 6 Albuquerque is home to more than 20 museums and cultural centers , a Historic Old Town area featuring more than 150 shops, galleries and restaurants, and a nostalgic stretch of Route 66 that combines vintage and modern for an exciting visitor experience.