Valencia County is a place with a long history, a proud heritage and a brilliant future, featuring a unique blend of history and cutting edge

Valencia County is a place with a long history, a proud heritage and a brilliant future, featuring a unique blend of history and cutting edge technology. Located just 20 miles south of New Mexico s largest city, Albuquerque, in the heart of New Mexico, the lower Rio Grande Valley s stunning scenery boasts mountains to the east, mesas with ancient lava flows to the west and brilliant blue skies above. Valencia County has many activities to offer including County Fairs, parades, rodeos, art shows, wine tasting, historical museums, traditional Matanzas, hot air ballooning, golfing and a variety of city parks and skate parks. Life in and around Valencia County blends traditional lifestyles with today s world.

Situated in central New Mexico on high mesas, Valencia County offers a mild climate with four distinctive seasons. Temperatures average the mid 90s during the heat of the day in summer but cool down into the 60s at night. Winter conditions follow the same pattern with mid 60s during the day and mid 30s at night with an occasional hard frost. Snowfall, rain and humidity are minimal as found throughout the Southwest. Clear blue skies with amazing sunrises and sunsets are normal and enjoyed during all seasons. Elevation: 4,800 feet Precipitation: 8.1 inches

There are many advantages for those who want to start or expand a business in Valencia County. A low tax base, high quality of life and diversified employment potential draw residents and businesses to Valencia County. The area s proximity to Albuquerque provides a bigger and better market to target and enhance the possibility of expansion as well.

The cost of living is low as land is plentiful and affordable with new communities developing in several locations. Valencia County offers a perfect alternative to those who seek the atmosphere of a small quality community with the convenience of a nearby major metropolitan city.

Cruzin' South Rt. 66 Summerfest Annual Event 2nd weekend in June Summerfest draws big crowds every summer. This 3-day event includes a car show, carnival with games & trinket vendors, swap meet, wine tasting, art show, Battle of the Bands and lots of fantastic local food vendors to taunt the tastebuds and satisfy the appetite for the entire family. Valencia County Fair and Rodeo Annual Event every August This event highlights local FFA and 4-H youth showcasing their various livestock and cowboy ranching skills. Bosque Farms Community Fair Annual Event every August Community Parade, Arts & Crafts Hub City Music Festival Monthly during May, June, July & August This event features live music, food, arts & crafts, and activities for the entire family. Rio Abajo Days Annual Event last weekend in September This event celebrates local heritage for the entire family with rodeo events including team roping & barrel racing, bull riding, food vendors, arts & crafts, and music by local musicians.

Matanza Annual Event last weekend in January Traditional New Mexican pig roast, a celebration of the old ways and a chance to raise money for local charities. Matanza teams compete for Best Food awards in various categories. St. Patrick s Day Hot Air Balloon Rallye Annual Event Saturday closest to St. Patrick s Day Watch 50 to 100 hot air balloons inflate and launch to the skies over Los Lunas offering sponsored rides, flying competitions, entertainment, and delicious local food & trinket vendors.

The Manzano Mountains, east of the county, offer a wide variety of recreational opportunities while outdoor recreation is plentiful. Hiking, fishing, biking, camping, hunting and golfing are minutes away from the cities and villages. There is always something to do in Valencia County. Most of the parks include basketball courts and playgrounds. Other parks include soccer, football and hiking trails. In addition, a BMX track and two skate parks reside in the county. A new paintball park will be opening spring of 2008.

New Mexico s population recently hit the two million mark with good reason. In addition to the mild climate, one of the most attractive elements for visitors in Valencia County is its rich history and warm hospitality. Historic Route 66 runs through Los Lunas, Peralta, Bosque Farms and Isleta Pueblo en route to Albuquerque. Los Lunas Visitor s Center highlights the county s proud heritage through period photographs and narratives. The Harvey House Museum in Belen showcases the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad s progress through the region with period photographs and artifacts that are listed in Valencia County s Historical Society as well as the National Register of Historic Places. The National Register of Historic Places also lists The Luna Mansion, built in 1881, where guests can dine in elegance and experience period furniture and atmosphere.