A crowd of people relax on blankets and lawn chairs in the shaded garden lawn at the Botanic Garden Festival Green Pavilion while a live musical performance takes place on an outdoor stage surrounded by trees.

Celebrate Independence Weekend With the NM Philharmonic at the Botanic Garden

Outdoor concert returns July 3 with patriotic favorites and Broadway classics.

June 29, 2026

Celebrate Fourth of July weekend with an evening of live orchestral music in one of Albuquerque's most scenic settings as the New Mexico Philharmonic returns to the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden on Friday, July 3.

Led by conductor Jason Altieri, the concert will feature a festive program celebrating America's 250th anniversary with music including Summon the Heroes by John Williams, Gershwin's Strike Up the Band, Sousa's Stars and Stripes Forever, Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, selections from Wicked and Chicago, and more. Guests are welcome to bring blankets or lawn chairs, pack a picnic dinner or purchase treats from BioPark concessions, and enjoy an evening surrounded by the garden's landscapes.

"The Botanic Garden is especially lovely on a summer evening, and live music adds another layer of beauty," said ABQ BioPark Guest Experience Manager Allyson Zahm. “It’s an experience that encourages people to linger, connect with nature, and enjoy time together."

Gates open at 6:30 p.m., giving guests time to stroll through the Botanic Garden prior to the 7:30 p.m. performance. Visitors can explore more than 30 acres of themed spaces before settling in for the concert. Tickets are available at https://tinyurl.com/2s2vf7w3.