Bernalillo County is celebrating a major milestone—25 years of preserving open space, offering outdoor education, and creating community-friendly places. To mark this special occasion, a free and fun event is being held on May 3 at the historic Gutiérrez-Hubbell House Open Space in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Families and nature lovers are invited to join the celebration and learn more about the county’s journey in protecting natural and cultural spaces.
25 Years of Open Space: A Journey Worth Celebrating
The Gutiérrez-Hubbell House, located at 6029 Isleta Blvd. SW, is where the story of Bernalillo County’s open space efforts began. Back in 1999, the local community came together to save this historic adobe home and its surrounding farmland from being turned into developed property. This effort led to the creation of the Open Space program, which has now been going strong for 25 years.
What to Expect at the Anniversary Event
The event will be held on Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is completely free and open to the public. Families, school groups, and community members can enjoy a variety of activities, including:
Live music, local food, home tours, and educational booths that showcase the rich history of the Gutiérrez-Hubbell House and the county’s open space program.
There will also be workshops and displays about local conservation efforts, outdoor learning programs, and how the open space system helps protect the environment while connecting people to nature.
A Message from Open Space Leaders
“The work we do is about protecting meaningful places and connecting people to them,” said Mari Simbaña, Bernalillo County’s Open Space Coordinator. She added that events like this anniversary celebration are designed to be vibrant, welcoming, and reflect the community’s shared values—whether through guided hikes, planting workshops, or educational activities.
Why Open Space Matters
Open spaces are not just pieces of land—they are places where families can hike, learn, and relax. They protect natural wildlife, preserve historical sites, and offer everyone a chance to enjoy the outdoors. Bernalillo County’s Open Space program has made sure that these areas stay clean, safe, and available for everyone to enjoy for generations.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply spending a fun day outdoors, the 25th anniversary celebration at the Gutiérrez-Hubbell House is the perfect event. It’s a chance to honour the past, celebrate community efforts, and look forward to the future of open space in Bernalillo County. Mark your calendar for May 3 and be part of this meaningful celebration.
