Good morning, Albuquerque.

Albuquerque is hosting its annual Freedom Fourth celebration at Balloon Fiesta Park today with live music, food vendors, kids' activities and family entertainment.

Gates open at 3 p.m. and fireworks start at 9:15 p.m.—attendees can use free Park and Ride buses.

A grassroots coalition is urging the National Science Foundation to delay demolition of the nearly 80-year-old Sunspot Solar Observatory (closed due to a mercury leak) in the Sacramento Mountains near Alamogordo.

Residents and state lawmakers are exploring alternative plans before the site is turned over to the U.S. Forest Service.

Lerner and Rowe is giving away 1,000 free school supply backpacks to local students at 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 7 at Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE — children must be present to receive their backpack.

Catholic priests faced criticism for backing a mosque project (near Alameda and Second St) in the North Valley.

A planning commission meeting approved the project (with appeals possible through the Bernalillo County Commission) on Wednesday.

My Mom's, a downtown restaurant (500 4th St NW, Suite 106), will close permanently on July 31 because rising supply costs forced price hikes.

Owner Chef Marie Yniguez said the family-run venue—celebrated since 2022 for its New Mexican culture—is part of a local trend affecting small businesses.

New Mexico’s Department of Cultural Affairs unveiled exhibits at state museums to explore the region’s layered identity on America’s 250th anniversary.

The displays connect Native, Spanish and American influences + a summer Native dance series will celebrate local heritage.

Tourism officials say Route 66 is expected to see strong traffic today despite a 10% rise in travel costs from higher gas prices.

Santa Rosa completed a musical road (playing America the Beautiful) to join centennial celebrations along the historic route.

UNM Children’s Campus was awarded $4.71 million from the New Mexico Higher Education Department to expand child care access for UNM families and local residents.

The funding will help upgrade early education services in the area.

Illegal fireworks and severe drought conditions are raising wildfire risks today in Albuquerque.

Fire Rescue and police monitor local areas (fire officials warn that sparks in extreme heat can quickly ignite wildfires) as patrols aim to curb dangerous incidents.

City crews demolished the 121-year-old Bliss Building that housed Lindy’s Diner on July 3 after the owners abandoned plans following a partial collapse in April—temporary closures at 5th Street and Central remain for safety as final cleanup continues.

Lavender Brunch Celebration

9:30-11 a.m. — Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm — Check website for pricing — Indulge in lavender-inspired dishes and cocktails while exploring the beauty of summer harvests.

Official FC Barcelona Soccer Camp

8 a.m. – 2 p.m. — APS Soccer Complex — $100 off registration with promo code — Train with official Barça coaches and learn the unique Barça methodology.

Taco Tuesday - Latin Night

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Overtime Sports Bar & Grill — $7 Cover — Dance the night away with Cumbia lessons and lively Latin music from DJ Gabriel Goza & Friends.

Ascension Suspension Summer Hangout

8 p.m. — Sunshine Theater — Free entry — Unofficial pre-NM Tattoo Convention kickoff featuring an exciting lineup of local music.

ToonFusion

3:30 a.m. — Manuel Lujan Jr. Exhibit Complex — Tickets start at $99 — Experience the can't-miss live show ToonFusion in Albuquerque.

Los Huracanes Del Norte Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — Isleta Resort & Casino — Tickets required — Enjoy a vibrant night of legendary norteño music and unforgettable entertainment.

Morning Yoga at Los Poblanos

7:00 – 8:30 AM — Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm — $18 – $25 — Start your week with yoga amidst lavender fields and peacocks.

Taco Tuesday - Latin Night

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Overtime Sports Bar & Grill — $7 Cover — Enjoy a vibrant night of Latin music and dance lessons in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Gabriel Rutledge at Hyena's Comedy Nightclub

Time TBD — Hyena's Comedy Nightclub — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with past comedy competition winner Gabriel Rutledge who brings his unique humor to Albuquerque.

Rufus Wainwright Concert

7-10 p.m. — National Hispanic Cultural Center — Book today — Experience the unique musical artistry of Rufus Wainwright live on stage.