The 7 Best Music Festivals in New Mexico

There’s nothing quite like the experience of attending a music festival. From the moment you arrive, the excitement and energy is palpable. The days are filled with music, laughter, and good times, and the nights are filled with dancing under the stars.

If you’re planning a trip to New Mexico and looking for a great music festival experience, you’re in luck! From folk and country to rock and blues, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top music festivals in New Mexico that you don’t want to miss!

1. ¡Globalbuquerque!

National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque

When: September (three days)

¡Globalbuquerque! is a festival in New Mexico highlighting the beauty and traditions of Mexican culture. The liveliness of this world-famous yearly event can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors, with a diverse selection of performers and musicians from all corners of the globe.

The world-famous celebration every year is both an indoor and outdoor event, with a range of acts and musicians coming from all corners of the planet.

2. Clovis Music Festival

Clovis, New Mexico

When: June (three days)

Are you a sucker for old cars, rock ‘n’ roll, and country music? Then the Clovis Music Festival is for you. The festival offers an incredible selection of rock and country acts for three days straight. With live music all day long and old cars on display, this is one event that you won’t want to miss!

Local beer, delicious food, and a variety of vendors make this a great event for the whole family.

3. Santa Fe Bandstand

Santa Fe, New Mexico

When: June – August (eight weeks)

The Santa Fe Bandstand is an 8-week long music festival that features a variety of genres. If you’re looking for some good local music, definitely check out the Santa Fe scene during summertime!

From rock and blues, to folk and bluegrass, this festival has something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the local vendors selling all kinds of goodies!

4. Las Cruces Country Music Festival

Las Cruces, New Mexico

When: October (three days)

Another great event for country music lovers is the Las Cruces Country Music Festival. This beloved festival takes place annually in October and showcases some of the top talent in country music today.

The festival also features a variety of vendors and food trucks, making it an all-around enjoyable experience.

5. Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival 

Santa Fe, New Mexico

When: July – August

With a dedication to both artistic quality and originality, the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival is one of the most well-known music festivals globally.

The Santa Fe setting is one of the many magical things about the Festival, which is nestled among the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

6. Tico Time Bluegrass Festival

Aztec, New Mexico

When: May (five days)

Come enjoy the natural beauty of the Animas River Valley with world-class live music. Camping, ziplining, hiking, and rafting are all available activities for you and your family to enjoy.

The Tico Time Bluegrass Festival is a five-day event featuring national and international bluegrass acts, as well as local talented performers.

7. Fiestas de Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico

When: September (nine days)

Each year, Fiestas de Santa Fe occurs in Santa Fe as a way to give thanks and celebrate Don Diego De Vargas’ reoccupation of the city. The event usually leaves residents feeling proud and happy.

The nine-day celebration includes live music, traditional foods, arts and crafts, parades, and more. It is a great way to honor the city’s cultural heritage while having fun in the process.

Final Thoughts

New Mexico is a great place to be a music lover! There are so many awesome music festivals and events each year, making it easy to find something that’s perfect for you. If you’re looking for a music-filled adventure, look no further than New Mexico!

Fiestas de Santa Fe Featured Image (Top) by: Ron Frazier from Bloomington IL, United States, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
¡Globalbuquerque! Featured Image (Bottom) by: Carptrash, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons