Country music icon Blake Shelton is set to headline the inaugural ABQ Smoke Show, a two-day festival celebrating live country music and Southern barbecue, scheduled for August 8-9, 2025, at Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta Park. Following the massive success of Activated Events’ Boots In The Park, which drew thousands to the same venue in May 2025, the ABQ Smoke Show promises an unforgettable weekend. Friday, August 8, kicks off with global pop sensation Pitbull, joined by Ludacris and Ashanti, bringing high-energy party vibes. Saturday, August 9, shifts to country with Shelton leading a stellar lineup featuring Dylan Scott, Tanya Tucker, Neon Union, Abby Anderson, and Frank Ray. Attendees can expect mouthwatering BBQ from over 30 local pitmasters, craft whiskey and tequila tastings, line dancing, cornhole tournaments, and interactive art installations under the vibrant New Mexico sky. With single and two-day tickets on sale now via abqsmokeshow.com, this 1,900-word article dives into the festival’s highlights, Shelton’s star power, the unique blend of music and Southern culture, and why this event is poised to be a summer 2025 must-attend.

The ABQ Smoke Show: A New Southwest Tradition

The ABQ Smoke Show, produced by Activated Events, builds on the triumph of Boots In The Park, which featured Luke Combs and Cody Johnson and set a high bar for Albuquerque’s music scene. “We were absolutely blown away by the support and excitement Albuquerque brought to Boots In The Park,” said Steve Thacher, CEO of Activated Events, in a MusicRow interview. “Having Blake Shelton headline this new event is the perfect way to keep the country party going in New Mexico.” The festival, held at the iconic Balloon Fiesta Park—a 5000 Balloon Fiesta Pkwy venue known for its annual hot air balloon spectacle—transforms into a country music and BBQ haven for two days, blending Nashville’s soul with Southwestern flair.

Friday’s lineup, headlined by Pitbull, promises a dancefloor explosion with Ludacris and Ashanti, appealing to fans of pop and hip-hop. Saturday shifts gears to country, with Shelton’s chart-topping hits setting the tone. The addition of Dylan Scott, Tanya Tucker, Neon Union, Abby Anderson, and Frank Ray ensures a diverse showcase of modern and classic country. Beyond music, the festival offers a “full-sensory celebration,” per The Country Note, with 30+ local BBQ vendors serving smoky brisket sliders, fire-grilled street corn, and Southern-style desserts, alongside whiskey and tequila tastings, craft beer, and activities like line dancing and cornhole. Tickets, starting at $151 for Saturday and available as two-day passes, are selling fast through abqsmokeshow.com, with Expedia offering a 150% money-back guarantee.

Blake Shelton: The Heart of Saturday’s Lineup

Blake Shelton, with 30 No. 1 singles, 52 million singles sold, and nearly 11 billion global streams, is a country music titan. His 2024 album, For Recreational Use Only, marked his return to BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, featuring hits like “Hell Right” with Trace Adkins and “Happy Anywhere” with Gwen Stefani. Shelton’s accolades include six ACM Awards, ten CMA Awards, and six People’s Choice Awards, cementing his status as a genre legend. His role as a coach on The Voice for 23 seasons (2011–2023) broadened his appeal, making him a household name beyond country fans. Rolling Stone praised his “easygoing charisma and vocal power,” qualities that promise to light up Balloon Fiesta Park.

Shelton’s Saturday performance will likely include fan favorites like “God’s Country,” “Boys ’Round Here,” and “Nobody But You,” blending heartfelt ballads with rowdy anthems. His stage presence, described by Billboard as “a masterclass in audience connection,” is expected to draw a diverse crowd, from diehard country fans to newcomers. Joining him, Dylan Scott brings his soulful hits like “My Girl,” while Tanya Tucker, a country icon, adds grit with classics like “Delta Dawn.” Emerging acts Neon Union, Abby Anderson, and Frank Ray round out the lineup, showcasing the genre’s future. MusicRow noted, “This lineup reflects the heart and soul of country,” ensuring a night of high-energy performances.

The Festival Experience: Music, BBQ, and Southwest Vibes

A Culinary Celebration

The ABQ Smoke Show isn’t just a concert—it’s a love letter to Southern and Southwestern culture. Over 30 local pitmasters will serve up BBQ staples, from tender brisket to spicy street corn, curated to capture New Mexico’s culinary spirit. The Country Note highlighted the festival’s “smoky brisket sliders and spiked sweet tea,” designed for foodies and music lovers alike. Whiskey and tequila tastings, featuring premium craft brands, elevate the experience, with a Texas-sized craft beer selection adding to the festive vibe. Fans can sip and savor while enjoying line dancing lessons and competitive cornhole, creating a lively, interactive atmosphere. Visit Albuquerque emphasized the festival’s all-ages appeal, with free general admission for children under 5 with a parent’s ticket.

Balloon Fiesta Park: The Perfect Venue

Balloon Fiesta Park, a 360-acre venue, is renowned for hosting the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, drawing global crowds for its vibrant displays. Its open layout and desert backdrop make it ideal for large-scale festivals like the ABQ Smoke Show. The park offers ample parking (for a fee) and strict guidelines, including no re-entry and a non-smoking policy, ensuring a safe, family-friendly environment. The festival’s two stages will maximize the experience, allowing continuous performances and easy access to food and activity zones. ABQToDo described it as “two unforgettable nights under the New Mexico sky,” with the venue’s vastness enhancing the communal spirit.

Interactive Fun and Southwest Flair

Beyond music and food, the ABQ Smoke Show offers line dancing, cornhole tournaments, and interactive art installations, blending country tradition with modern festival energy. MusicRow noted the “classic country fun” of these activities, which appeal to all ages. The event’s connection to Boots In The Park, which drew stars like Luke Combs and Parker McCollum in May 2025, ensures a polished production. Activated Events’ CEO Steve Thacher told KOAT, “The energy we felt at Boots In The Park proved how strong the country music community is in Albuquerque.” This community spirit, paired with New Mexico’s starry skies, promises a memorable weekend.

Why Fans Are Buzzing

The ABQ Smoke Show’s announcement sparked excitement across social media. On X, @CountryFanNM tweeted, “Blake Shelton and BBQ at Balloon Fiesta Park? Count me in! #ABQSmokeShow,” while @MusicLoverABQ called it “the ultimate summer party.” The two-day format, blending Pitbull’s high-octane pop on Friday with Shelton’s country swagger on Saturday, broadens its appeal. The Music Universe noted that adding Pitbull turned the event into “a two-day festival experience,” attracting diverse audiences. Reddit’s r/Albuquerque buzzed with anticipation, with u/DesertRhythm saying, “Shelton plus Tanya Tucker and BBQ? This is New Mexico’s dream fest.”

The festival’s timing, just before the 2025 Balloon Fiesta, positions it as a summer highlight, with Visit Albuquerque promoting it as a “must-do” for tourists and locals. Presale tickets, available from May 28, 2025, sold rapidly, with general sales starting May 30, per KOAT. Expedia’s interactive seat maps and ticket filtering options make securing spots easy, though prices start at $151 for Saturday and may rise due to demand.

Blake Shelton’s Star Power and Festival Fit

Shelton’s involvement is a major draw. His recent performances, including CMA Fest 2025 in Nashville, showcased his ability to captivate large crowds, per Backstage Country. His personal connection to Southern culture—born in Ada, Oklahoma—aligns with the festival’s BBQ and whiskey focus. In a MusicRow interview, Shelton expressed excitement for the event, saying, “Albuquerque knows how to throw a party, and I’m ready to bring it.” His collaboration with Gwen Stefani on hits like “Nobody But You” adds crossover appeal, potentially drawing pop fans from Friday’s Pitbull set.

Tanya Tucker’s legendary status and Dylan Scott’s rising star power complement Shelton, while newer acts like Abby Anderson bring fresh energy. The Country Note praised the lineup’s diversity, noting it “captures the spirit of the Southwest.” Shelton’s humor and relatability, honed on The Voice, will likely shine in crowd interactions, making his set a highlight. Fans on X, like @SheltonStan22, tweeted, “Blake at ABQ Smoke Show is gonna be epic—BBQ and ‘God’s Country’ under the stars!”

Challenges and Considerations

While excitement is high, the festival’s scale presents logistical challenges. Balloon Fiesta Park’s parking fees and no-re-entry policy may frustrate some attendees, per abqsmokeshow.com guidelines. Oversize vehicles are prohibited, and event personnel can refuse entry at their discretion, which could cause issues for unprepared fans. Weather in August can be unpredictable, with New Mexico’s summer heat and potential monsoons requiring preparation. Still, Activated Events’ experience with large-scale festivals like Coastal Country Jam ensures a well-run event, per 92.5 XTU.

Looking Ahead: A New Festival Legacy

The ABQ Smoke Show aims to become a Southwest staple, building on Boots In The Park’s success. With plans for expansion in 2026, including a potential OC Smoke Show in San Juan Capistrano, Activated Events is betting on the festival’s unique blend of music and lifestyle. Shelton’s headline slot could set the tone for future lineups, with fans on Reddit speculating about artists like Miranda Lambert or Chris Stapleton for 2026. The event’s all-ages appeal and free admission for kids under 5 make it family-friendly, broadening its reach.

Conclusion

The ABQ Smoke Show, set for August 8-9, 2025, at Balloon Fiesta Park, is poised to be a summer 2025 highlight, with Blake Shelton headlining a star-studded country lineup alongside mouthwatering BBQ and Southwest vibes. Pitbull’s Friday party sets the stage for Saturday’s country extravaganza, featuring Dylan Scott, Tanya Tucker, and more. With whiskey tastings, line dancing, and a vibrant community spirit, this two-day festival promises an unforgettable experience. Tickets are on sale now at abqsmokeshow.com—secure your spot for a weekend of music, flavor, and fun under the New Mexico sky. Whether you’re a country diehard or a BBQ enthusiast, the ABQ Smoke Show is where summer dreams come alive. Don’t miss Blake Shelton and friends lighting up Albuquerque in 2025!