Belen, New Mexico, is a small town with a big heart. Throughout the year, locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate the town's rich history and culture through a variety of annual events. Here are just a few of the special events that take place in Belen every year.

St. Patrick's Day Balloon Rally















Every March, Belen hosts a St. Patrick's Day parade that draws crowds from all over the region. The parade features floats, marching bands, and plenty of green attire as participants celebrate Irish heritage and culture. After the parade, visitors can enjoy live music and food vendors in the town's historic downtown district.

In addition to that, Belen also hosts a balloon rally every year to celebrate the holiday. Visitors can watch as colorful hot air balloons take to the sky, adding to the festive atmosphere.


All-American Celebration















On the 4th of July, Belen's All-American Celebration is a day-long event that includes a parade, live music, food vendors, and a fireworks display over the nearby Rio Grande River. Families and friends gather together to celebrate Independence Day and enjoy all that Belen has to offer.


Trunk and Treat















Halloween is a big deal in Belen, and one of the most popular events is Trunk and Treat. Families decorate their car trunks with spooky themes and hand out candy to trick-or-treaters. The event is held in the parking lot of a local business and includes music and games for kids.


Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting















The holiday season kicks off in Belen with a Christmas parade that winds through the town's streets, featuring floats decorated with lights and holiday cheer. The parade ends at the town's gazebo, where the community gathers for the annual tree lighting ceremony. Visitors can enjoy hot cocoa and carolers as they celebrate the start of the holiday season.


Toys for Tots















Every year, Belen participates in the Toys for Tots program, collecting new, unwrapped toys for children in need during the holiday season. The community comes together to donate toys and make sure that every child has a happy holiday.


Valencia County Fair















The Valencia County Fair is a beloved annual event that features livestock shows, carnival rides, live music, food vendors, and more. Visitors can see prize-winning animals, enjoy fair food favorites like funnel cakes and corn dogs, and take part in games and contests.


Scarecrow Festival















The Scarecrow Festival is a fall event that celebrates the harvest season with scarecrow-building contests, pumpkin decorating, and other activities for kids. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food vendors, and arts and crafts booths featuring local artisans.


These are just a few more examples of the many special events that take place in Belen throughout the year. No matter what time of year you visit, you're sure to find something to celebrate in this vibrant New Mexico town.