ABQ Times

Today, Keep Albuquerque Beautiful and the Solid Waste Management Department organized Fiesta Fanatics, an annual community cleanup event at Balloon Fiesta Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The event attracted hundreds of volunteers who gathered to clear litter in preparation for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta starting on October 5.

"Enhancing the beauty of our City as a community ahead of our biggest event of the year exemplifies what the Solid Waste Management Department aims to do every day," stated Billy Gallegos, Director of the Solid Waste Management Department. "Our department and Keep Albuquerque Beautiful remain committed to creating opportunities for residents and City workers to come together as we work toward a cleaner and more beautiful Albuquerque."

Mayor Tim Keller emphasized the communal spirit behind such initiatives: "When one resident takes action, it inspires others, and together, our collective efforts create a lasting impact. As we prepare for the biggest celebration of the year, families coming together to beautify our community is one of the best ways we can show pride in our City and share that spirit with visitors at Balloon Fiesta."

The primary aim of this year's event was to foster civic pride and highlight Albuquerque's beauty. To achieve this goal, Keep Albuquerque Beautiful collaborated with Imagine ABQ, a local non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging community participation in beautification efforts. David Meyers, AFR Chaplain and Founder of Imagine ABQ remarked, "Today demonstrates the power of unity and the impact we can have when we come together to create a cleaner and more vibrant Albuquerque. Imagine ABQ is forever grateful for Keep Albuquerque Beautiful and their partnership in our shared mission to transform and take pride in our community."

Fiesta Fanatics marks the beginning of three fall events hosted by Keep Albuquerque Beautiful. For those unable to attend or wishing to participate again, registration is open for Dash for the Trash on October 12—a family-friendly competitive cleanup event in Bosque.