ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The iconic big white tent in front of Sandia Resort and Casino is back for the Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Festival. The festival is celebrating its 34th year, hosting over 200 of the nation's best artists and craftsmen. Officials said this year the show coincides with Balloon Fiesta to offer shoppers a full-day, one-of-a-kind experience you can only find in New Mexico. PHOTOS: Mass Ascension on the first day of 2024 Balloon Fiesta "We have a fairly loyal following here, so this is a way for me to connect back with my customers every single year, so they come see me, and they come, and they come see the rest of the artist here at the show," said artist David Schneider. The event has live music, cold craft brews, and festive foods alongside all the art. The festival will run through this weekend and next.