Good morning, Albuquerque.

The ABQ BioPark Zoo will host a Mother’s Day celebration on May 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—families can see exhibits on animal moms from gorillas to kangaroos and enjoy live music and picnic options.

Tickets cost between $6.50 and $13, with a 50% discount for New Mexico BioPark Society members.

Phil Chacon Park will open May 3 after a full rebuild that removed graffiti, renewed playing fields, and added features such as a free-roam dog park, nature play area, disc golf area, futsal court, and pump tracks for bikes—improvements that give local families and clubs a safer, more inviting space. The park, near Van Buren Middle School, was closed since December 2022 as the city worked with Trumbull and Elder neighborhood residents to guide the update.

At UNM’s Anderson School of Management, Assistant Professor Hyunsang Son used machine learning to analyze over 4,000 Instagram travel videos and found that short videos, less smiling, and clear product size help boost user engagement—data that local tourism groups may use to guide their marketing. The study shows how research into video features can give brands clear advice on content creation.

In Albuquerque, ongoing construction and heavy rush-hour traffic on I-25 are fueling a rise in aggressive driving as some drivers tailgate or try to force others off the road, so crime expert Paul Szych advises staying calm and calling 911 if targeted.

Today, Picuris Pueblo leaders—and international geneticists—published a study in Nature showing that DNA from 13 current tribe members closely matches ancient DNA from 16 individuals linked to Chaco Canyon, which supports the tribe's oral histories and efforts to protect its heritage amid oil and gas drilling debates. This study marks the first time a federally recognized tribe has led research using DNA to confirm deep ancestral ties to the region.

A four-year study shows that Native American students in Albuquerque Public Schools are lagging academically behind their peers—raising concerns about how the gap will be addressed.

A judge ruled on Tuesday that New Mexico must create a new plan to improve public school education for Native American and low-income students in kindergarten through 12th grade—this plan will be developed by the Public Education Department with outside help and could take up to five years to complete.

Participants from UNM gathered at the Lobo Rainforest for a two-day Hackathon where 13 teams developed innovative prototypes and pitched ideas for cash prizes totaling $19,000.

Mentors and UNM staff helped teams refine their projects as judges evaluated pitches — awarding winners such as ShredLeash and MoveIt!.

Former U.S. Attorney Alex Uballez launched his run for Albuquerque mayor today as one of nine candidates in the fall election—he said his work as a prosecutor will help make streets safer and build more homes for a better future for his kids aged 3, 6 and 8.

30th Annual Red Road AA Convention

7 a.m. — Marriott Albuquerque — Cash payment required — Celebrate sobriety with fellow members and engage in community discussions.

Shining River Wine Release Party

12-7 p.m. — Casa Rondeña Winery — No cover charge — Celebrate the release of the 2024 Shining River with live music and delicious bites.

The Fall of Troy Concert

7-11 p.m. — Launchpad — $31+ — Celebrate 20 years of Doppleganger with The Fall Of Troy and special guests.

Floral Decoupage Birdhouse Workshop

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Rio Bravo Brewing Company — Cold drinks and food available separately — Explore your creativity crafting vibrant birdhouses adorned with floral designs.

NMAA 3A State Track and Field Championships

All day — University of New Mexico — Check event page for cost — Experience top-notch high school track and field competition in Albuquerque.

Albuquerque Cards & More Expo 2025

10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Albuquerque — Free admission — Discover a treasure trove of cards, collectibles, and memorabilia while enjoying exciting vendor interactions and giveaways.

Verdi's Requiem by New Mexico Symphonic Chorus

2 p.m. — Albuquerque Journal Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the powerful emotions of Verdi’s majestic Requiem with the New Mexico Symphonic Chorus.

Rilo Kiley Live

7-9:30 p.m. — Revel — Tickets required — Experience the enchanting sounds of indie pop legends Rilo Kiley in an intimate setting.

Adobe Horno Building Workshop

3-7 p.m. — Los Ranchos Agri-Nature Center — Participation fee may apply — Learn traditional Pueblo-style adobe construction techniques in a hands-on workshop led by Dr. Joshuaa Allison-Burbank.

Free Anime & Pop Culture Expo in Albuquerque

Fri-Sun, 6-6 p.m. — Marriott Albuquerque — Free entry — Dive into a vibrant celebration of anime with guest voice actors, cosplay contests, and unique art.