8 Fun Events in October in New Mexico
Since July of 2017, we’ve been sharing a lot of exciting attractions, events, and festivals to help you keep having fun in New Mexico. We were inspired by summer vacation, making plans to enjoy the hot weather and breaks from school. Yet, having fun in New Mexico doesn’t stop at the end of summer. In fact, October starts off with a bang at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta from October 7 to 15. If you can’t make it this year, don’t worry; there are still plenty of fun things to do in October in New Mexico!
1) Cowboy Symposium in October in New Mexico
The 28th Annual Cowboy Symposium is the best cowboy festival in the US. It goes from October 13 to 15 at Ruidoso Downs Race Track. Tracy Byrd and Bri Bagwell are among the popular musicians performing this year (buy tickets). Many exciting events are scheduled, including a Cowboy Mounted Shooting event, Family Fun rodeos, chuck wagons, cook offs, dancing, and much more.
2) New Mexico Brew Fest in October in New Mexico
This event is a good reason to plan your visit to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta for October 14. The New Mexico Brew Fest features live music and an opportunity to taste a variety of New Mexico craft beers. It’s one of the most popular beer festivals and among the highest rated fall events in the US. The event starts at 1 pm at EXPO New Mexico (Gate 3) and lasts until 6 pm. 21+ Only.
3) InterPlanetary Ziggy Stardust Costume Party in October in New Mexico
On October 15, you can get into the Halloween spirit with the InterPlanetary Ziggy Stardust Costume Party! It may be your first chance to dress up this October, but the theme is more ‘David Bowie,’ than Halloween. Dress up in a David Bowie themed costume to be entered in a prize raffle. The event is free, but you have to RSVP to go. There will be a cash bar, and it’s expected to be a wild night from 5 pm to 7 pm. It takes place during the Santa Fe Institute’s October InterPlanetary Series events, from October 13 to 17.
4) Roswell Jazz Festival in October in New Mexico
From October 18 to October 22, Roswell will be celebrating their 12th Annual Roswell Jazz Festival. There will be all kinds of jazz performances, all around town, with dozens of musicians coming from all over the US. Some of those performances are free, while others require you to purchase tickets. There’s even a free School of Jazz workshop on October 21 (9 am) at the Roswell Museum and Art Center.
5) Santa Fe Comic Con in October in New Mexico
The Santa Fe Comic Con is one of the most highly anticipated events in October. Plan to be at the Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino between October 20 and 22. You can buy tickets at various locations in Santa Fe, Pojaque, and Albuquerque. Or you can buy passes online. Fire fighters, military, and police get in free with a badge or ID. It all starts on Friday, October 20, at 4 pm. The Autism Sensitivity Opening is from 3 pm to 5 pm. They’ll be open Saturday, 10 am to 8 pm, and Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm. Some of this year’s guests include Bob Layton, Don Glut, Amy Jo Johnson, Kane (Glen Jacobs), and John Lucas.
6) Los Alamos Arts & Crafts Fair in October in New Mexico
The Fuller Lodge Art Center is having their 37th Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Fair on October 21. It will be held at the Crossroads Church in Los Alamos, New Mexico, from 9 am to 3:30 pm. You can browse more than 60 booths with southwest vendors selling incredible handmade items. Many refer to this event as the ‘Gateway to the Holidays Fair’ because it’s the perfect opportunity to start finding unique and meaningful gifts for friends and family.
7) Albuquerque Tango Festival in October in New Mexico
If you like to dance and meet new people, then you should definitely plan to attend the 8th annual Albuquerque Tango Festival. It’s the largest and most popular event of its kind in the United States with more than 600 dancers regularly attending. The community prides themselves on being friendly and welcoming, a perfect place to meet new people. Register online for package prices to get a 30% discount on events. Events start Thursday, October 26 and end on Sunday, October 29. They even have beginners classes on the 27th.
8) Taos Mountain Balloon Rally in October in New Mexico
If you can’t get to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta this year, or if you just wish there was a smaller version of the event for a less crowded experience, then the Taos Mountain Balloon Rally is just what you need. It takes place on the last full weekend of October each year, which is October 27 through 29 in 2017. This is a much smaller balloon festival than the one in Albuquerque, with no more than 35 balloons. This means you can get a lot closer to the balloons and crews. There are fun family activities and events over the weekend, including tether rides for children and a Balloon Rally Parade. The first Dawn Patrol starts at 7 am on the 27th in the TMBRA field behind the Taos County Courthouse. And while you’re in Taos, consider staying at the best bed and breakfast in New Mexico.
Which events do you plan to attend and how else are you spending October in New Mexico?
