Best Weekend Bets

There are lots of fun events to do this weekend, to include Valentine's events. Enjoy whatever you do, and have a safe and wonderful weekend.

Harlem Globetrotters at the Pit
See the world famous Globetrotters strut their stuff at the Pit. The wizards of the court pump it up and entertain in a fast paced style.
When: 8 p.m. Friday, February 10
Where: The Pit, University and Avenida Cesar Chavez
Cost: $21 - $73

Friends and Lovers Hot Air Balloon Rally
The first Valentines balloon event in Albuquerque was in 1976. This popular launch features up to 100 hot air balloons rising into the sky for two mornings over Valentine's Day weekend. Saturday there will even be a wedding. Access to the park is from the northeast corner of Balloon Park. Free to watch/attend.
When: February 11 and 12, 7 a.m. launch
Where: Balloon Park, 5000 Balloon Parkway NE

New Mexico Shrine Circus
The three ring circus runs for three days and eight shows. All proceeds benefit Ballut Abayd Shrine Center, which gives to children who needs medical care. Friday, February 10 is Heroes Day, when military, police dept., fire dept., emergency services personnel get half price. Tickets can be purchased online, or call (505) 255-5329.
When: 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. 2/10; 11:30 a.m., 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. 2/11 and 2/12
Where: Tingley Coliseum at Expo New Mexico
Cost: $11 adults, $5 children; $8 additional for box seats. Order online and save.

My Fair Lady
The transformation of Eliza Doolittle into a refined lady is accompanied by the music and lyrics of Lerner and Lowe. A Broadway in New Mexico selection.
When: 8 p.m. 2/10, 2/11; 2 p.m. 2/11, 2/12; 7:30 p.m. 2/12
Where: Popejoy Hall
Cost: $47.50 - $72.50.

Outdoor Adventures Hunting and Fishing Show
The popular expo is in its 14th year, bringing the outdoors to you. There will be fly fishing demonstrations, campfire cooking demos, special activities for kids, outdoor furniture and art and hundreds of outdoor products. Kids love the simulated fishing for Alaskan King salmon.
When: Noon to 6 p.m. 2/10; 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. 2/11; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 2/12
Where: Expo New Mexico, Manuel Lujan Buildings, entrance off San Pedro
Cost: $8, children under 12 free. $5 per car parking at Expo NM.

Old Town Sweetheart Stroll
Head to Old Town for a bit of romance that includes live entertainment and sweet shopping deals.
When: Noon - 6 p.m., Saturday, February 11
Where: Old Town
Cost: Free.

Valentine's Day Tours
Learn the ways animals attract mates and plants reproduce at special discovery stations.
When: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, February 11
Where: Rio Grande Zoo, Botanic Gardens and Albuquerque Aquarium
Cost: Included with regular admission; same day combo tickets are $12 adults, $5 for seniors and children 3-12. Combo tickets include unlimited rides on trains.

Adults Only Valentine's Day Tours
Three tours are available: "Birds and the Beasts," at the zoo; "Love Bugs" at the Botanic Gardens and "That's a Moray!" at the Aquarium. The tour is for adults only, 18 and older.
When: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, February 11
Where: Rio Grande Zoo, Albuquerque Aquarium and Botanic Garden
Cost: $10.

Diego Amador Trio
The trio come from the cradle of Andalusian flamenco. Pianist and lead singer Diego Amador is joined by Israel Varela on drums and Julian Heredia on bass for a fusion of flamenco rhythm and melodic jazz.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, February 11
Where: National Hispanic Cultural Center Roy E. Disney Center, 1701 4th NW
Cost: $20 - $60, $5 discount for students, seniors and NHCC members.

PULSE Series: The Paranoid Cheese Cinema Project
The New Mexico Philharmonic presents a collaborative concert of music by composer Marc Mellitis and film selections by French filmmaker Francois Pain. This is the inaugural concert of the new PULSE music series. An all ages event.
When: 4 p.m.; doors open 3:30 p.m., Sunday, February 12
Where: KiMo Theatre, 423 Central NW
Cost: $5 - $30

Cause of the Week

Cupid's Chase 5K Run
The Cupid's Chase run is a national 5K event that takes place in 24 cities, on the same day, at the same time. Proceeds benefit Community Options, which provides supports to people with disabilites. There will be giveaways and prizes, and of course, the chance to see balloons! Walkers are welcome.
When: February 11, registration begins 8 a.m., race begins 10 a.m.
Where: Balloon Fiesta Park, 5000 Balloon Fiesta Parkway

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