New Mexico’s rural communities, served by electric cooperatives across the state, are surrounded by breathtaking deserts, mountain ranges, and more than 50 national and state parks. From quiet villages to historic cities such as Santa Fe and Taos, the Land of Enchantment blends Native American, Mexican and Spanish cultures into something truly unique. Here are upcoming local events happening in the co-op areas and beyond:
Fiestas de Santa Fe & Burning of Zozobra
When: Aug. 29–Sept. 7
Where: Santa Fe Plaza & Fort Marcy Park
This week-long celebration of art, music, dance, parades and culture is highlighted by the symbolic Burning of Zozobra on the Friday before Labor Day. The “Old Man Gloom” marionette is burned in a large public event meant to symbolically burn away worries, followed by a fair and the fiesta opening.
santafefiesta.org and burnzozobra.com
New Mexico State Fair
When: Sept. 4-14
Where: Expo New Mexico, Albuquerque
New Mexico’s annual state fair features rodeo competitions, carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, concerts, food vendors and family entertainment.
statefair.exponm.com
New Mexico Jazz Festival
When: Sept. 4–28
Where: Venues in Albuquerque & Santa Fe
A month-long jazz celebration brings NEA Jazz Masters, local and international artists to the area through free concerts and family programming.
outpostspace.org/outpost-performance-space/new-mexico-jazz-festival
Angel Fire “Cool Summer Nights” Music Series
When: Sept. 5, 12 and 19
Where: Angel Fire community venues
Outdoor evening concerts feature local musicians and are perfect for families to enjoy an evening out with music and dancing.
visitangelfirenm.com/events
River Music Gathering
When: Sept. 12–14
Where: Brandenburg Park in Red River
Listen to folk- and Americana-style music in a mountain setting, with multiple stages and a family-friendly festival vibe.
4kredriver.com/events
Pie Town Annual Pie Festival
When: Sept. 13
Where: Pie Town, along US-60
Visit for a quirky, country-style pie bake-off, pie-eating contest and traditional games such as horseshoes and three-legged races in a small rural community.
facebook.com/p/Pie-Towns-Annual-Pie-Festival-61574880389962
White Sands Balloon Invitational
When: Sept. 13-14
Where: Alamogordo
The White Sands Balloon Invitational fills the skies with vibrant hot air balloons, offering a breathtaking blend of color, scenery and community spirit. This beloved tradition has delighted spectators for more than 30 years, weather permitting.
ci.alamogordo.nm.us/721/White-Sands-Balloon-Invitational
Angel Fire Farmers Market
When: Sept. 14
Where: Angel Fire
Stop by for local produce, crafts, music and community shopping in this picturesque mountain village.
angelfireresort.com/series/angel-fire-farmers-market
¡Globalquerque!
When: Sept. 20
Where: National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque
This world music festival features evening performances, workshops, films, cultural presentations, craft vendors and a family-friendly Global Fiesta day.
globalquerque.org
Chiricahua-Peloncillo Heritage Days
When: Sept. 20-21
Where: Geronimo Event Center, Rodeo
Visit the outdoor market, professional indoor presentations, have lunch on-site, and join a field day birding tour of Cave Creek Canyon.
friendsofcavecreekcanyon.com/events/heritage-days
Southern New Mexico State Fair & Rodeo
When: Sept. 24-28
Where: Las Cruces fairgrounds
Livestock and rodeo shows, carnival rides, and local food and crafts come together to create fun for the whole family.
snmstatefairgrounds.net
Carrizozo Community Festival
When: Sept. 27
Where: McDonald Park and 12th Street, Carrizozo
Enjoy vendors, food trucks, a parade, vintage cars, children’s activities, live music and a butterfly flutterfly. This event coincides with the disc golf tournament at Community Park.
carrizozoworks.org