Country music icon Blake Shelton is set to light up Albuquerque, New Mexico, as the headliner for The Smoke Show BBQ & Country Music Roundup, a one-day festival scheduled for August 9, 2025, at Balloon Fiesta Park. Announced on May 20, 2025, by Activated Events, the event promises a vibrant celebration of country music, mouthwatering BBQ, and classic Western culture. Following the resounding success of their Boots In The Park festival in the same city, Activated Events is doubling down on Albuquerque’s growing reputation as a country music hub. With a star-studded lineup, local culinary delights, and a full-sensory experience, The Smoke Show is poised to be one of the summer’s hottest tickets. Shelton’s magnetic presence, fresh off his chart-topping album For Recreational Use Only, ensures a performance that will resonate with fans and newcomers alike.

A Country Music Extravaganza

The Smoke Show BBQ & Country Music Roundup, presented by Activated Events, builds on the momentum of their sold-out Boots In The Park festival, which drew tens of thousands to Albuquerque in May 2025 with headliners Luke Combs and Cody Johnson. “We were absolutely blown away by the support and excitement Albuquerque brought to Boots In The Park,” said Steve Thacher, CEO of Activated Events. “The response from fans exceeded all expectations, and we couldn’t wait to announce our return with The Smoke Show. Having Blake Shelton headline this new event is the perfect way to keep the country party going in New Mexico.”

Shelton, a Grand Ole Opry member with 30 No. 1 singles and nearly 11 billion global streams, is a natural fit for the festival’s headline slot. His recent album, For Recreational Use Only, released on May 9, 2025, via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, marks a triumphant return to his country roots. Featuring the chart-topping single “Texas” and the fan-favorite “Stay Country Or Die Tryin’,” the album has been praised for its blend of honky-tonk energy and emotional depth. Fans can expect to hear these hits alongside classics like “Austin” and “God’s Country” when Shelton takes the stage, delivering the high-energy performance he’s known for.

Joining Shelton is a stellar lineup of country talent, including Dylan Scott, Tanya Tucker, Neon Union, Abby Anderson, and Frank Ray. Scott, a multi-Platinum artist with hits like “My Girl,” brings his soulful drawl, while Tucker, a country legend, adds timeless appeal. Rising stars Neon Union, Anderson, and Ray round out the bill, ensuring a mix of established and fresh voices. “The lineup reflects the heart and soul of the genre,” Thacher noted, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to showcasing country music’s diversity.

More Than Just Music

The Smoke Show is not just a concert—it’s a full-fledged cultural experience. Held at the sprawling Balloon Fiesta Park, the festival combines top-tier music with a celebration of Southwestern flavors and traditions. Attendees can indulge in “finger-lickin’ BBQ” from over 30 local vendors, offering smoky ribs, brisket, and other savory delights. The Whiskey Barrel Saloon, featuring 101 hand-selected premium whiskies, promises a tasting experience for connoisseurs, while a “Texas-sized” selection of craft beers caters to those seeking a cold brew. Non-alcoholic beverages and other options will also be available, ensuring something for everyone.

Beyond the food and drink, The Smoke Show offers a range of activities that capture the spirit of country culture. A line-dancing tent will invite attendees to kick up their boots, with instructors teaching classic moves. Competitive cornhole tournaments will test precision and spark friendly rivalries, while interactive art installations provide Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. From axe-throwing booths to mechanical bull rides, the festival is designed to keep the energy high from noon, when gates open, until 10 p.m., when the event concludes. “It’s a country music smoke show like no other,” reads the official event website, promising a day of nonstop fun.

The festival’s sensory-rich environment has drawn comparisons to other Activated Events productions, such as Boots In The Park and Coastal Country Jam. Posts on X reflect the excitement, with @krqe tweeting, “Blake Shelton headlines The Smoke Show, coming to Balloon Fiesta Park,” and @MusicRow calling it a “must-see event.” The anticipation is palpable, as fans eagerly await a day that blends music, food, and community in true country fashion.

Blake Shelton’s Enduring Appeal

At 49, Blake Shelton remains a cornerstone of country music, with a career that spans over two decades. Since his debut single “Austin” topped the charts in 2001, he’s amassed 52 million singles sold, 13 million album sales, and a slew of accolades, including six ACM Awards, ten CMA Awards, and six People’s Choice Awards. His role as a coach on The Voice for 23 seasons made him a household name, introducing his charm and humor to a broader audience. His marriage to Gwen Stefani, along with collaborations like “Happy Anywhere” and “Purple Irises,” has further expanded his reach, blending country with pop influences.

Shelton’s 2025 has been a year of reinvention. After stepping away from The Voice in 2023, he focused on his music and family, releasing For Recreational Use Only, his first album in four years. The project, featuring duets with Stefani, John Anderson, and Craig Morgan, was inspired by a collaboration with Post Malone on “Somebody Pour Me a Drink.” The album’s success, coupled with his Friends & Heroes Tour alongside Craig Morgan and Trace Adkins, has reaffirmed his status as a live performer. “I’m not going anywhere anytime soon,” Shelton told Taste of Country Nights in November 2024, hinting at more to come.

His headline slot at The Smoke Show is a testament to his enduring draw. “Shelton remains a magnetic force in the country scene,” wrote The Music Universe, noting his ability to connect with audiences through humor, heart, and authenticity. Fans on X agree, with @themusicuni praising his “electrifying” stage presence. Whether belting out anthems or sharing stories from his Oklahoma roots, Shelton’s performance is expected to be the festival’s highlight.

Albuquerque’s Country Music Renaissance

Albuquerque’s emergence as a country music destination is a key factor in The Smoke Show’s appeal. The city’s enthusiastic response to Boots In The Park, which featured Jon Pardi and Parker McCollum alongside Combs and Johnson, proved its appetite for major festivals. “The energy we felt at Boots In The Park showed how strong the country music community is in Albuquerque,” Thacher said. The Smoke Show aims to build on this, transforming Balloon Fiesta Park into a vibrant hub for fans, foodies, and culture enthusiasts.

The festival’s logistics are designed for accessibility. Parking is available onsite for a fee, with a pick-up and drop-off area for ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. Gates open at noon, and attendees are advised to arrive early, as re-entry is not permitted. Small bags (up to 12x6x12 inches) are allowed but subject to search, and items like sunscreen, chairs, and service animals are permitted. Tickets, available through abqsmokeshow.com, went on presale May 28, 2025, with general sales starting May 30. Radio stations like Big I 107.9 and 98.1 The Bull offered ticket giveaways, fueling excitement.

Cultural and Economic Impact

The Smoke Show is more than a concert—it’s a boost for Albuquerque’s economy and cultural scene. Local BBQ vendors, many family-owned, will showcase New Mexico’s culinary heritage, from green chile-infused dishes to traditional smoked meats. The festival’s emphasis on regional whiskies and craft beers highlights the state’s growing artisanal beverage industry. By drawing thousands to Balloon Fiesta Park, the event is expected to benefit hotels, restaurants, and small businesses, much like Boots In The Park did.

Culturally, The Smoke Show celebrates country music’s ability to unite diverse audiences. Shelton’s broad appeal, combined with the lineup’s mix of veterans and newcomers, ensures a multigenerational crowd. Activities like line dancing and cornhole foster a sense of community, while art installations add a modern twist. “It’s about creating memories,” Thacher told KOAT. “We want people to leave feeling like they’ve experienced something special.”

A Smokin’ Good Time Ahead

As August 9, 2025, approaches, anticipation for The Smoke Show BBQ & Country Music Roundup continues to build. Blake Shelton’s headline performance, backed by a talented lineup and a festival packed with food, drink, and fun, promises an unforgettable day. For Shelton, it’s another chance to do what he loves: connect with fans through music that speaks to life’s joys and struggles. For Albuquerque, it’s an opportunity to cement its place on the country music map.

With tickets selling fast and social media abuzz—@bobkkob on X called it “the summer’s hottest event”—The Smoke Show is shaping up to be a landmark festival. Whether you’re a die-hard Shelton fan, a BBQ enthusiast, or just looking for a good time, this event has it all. As Shelton himself might say, grab your boots, loosen your belt, and get ready for a smokin’ good time in the heart of New Mexico.