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:
Día de los Muertos
When: Oct. 24 to Nov. 2
Where: Old Town, Albuquerque
This cultural celebration features art, ofrendas, Catrina processions, dance, music and more.
albuquerqueoldtown.com/dia-de-los-muertos-in-old-town-albuquerque
Family Art Making
When: Nov. 2
Where: New Mexico Museum of Art, Santa Fe
Storytime, songs, and crafts explore art elements for children ages 3–5 and caregivers.
media.newmexicoculture.org/event/6935/family-art-making
Palace Press Letterpress Demonstration
When: Nov. 7
Where: New Mexico History Museum, Santa Fe
Partake in a hands-on demonstration of vintage printing presses. This event, from 5–7 p.m., is open to all and fun for families.
media.newmexicoculture.org/event/6723/palace-press-present
Lucy R. Lippard & Suzanne Lacy in Conversation
When: Nov. 7
Where: New Mexico Museum of Art, Santa Fe
Join two influential artists/activists from 5:30–7:30 p.m. for a discussion that covers culture, art, and social change.
media.newmexicoculture.org/event/6954/lucy-r-lippard-and-s
16th Annual Fred Harvey History Weekend
When: Nov. 7–9
Where: New Mexico History Museum, Santa Fe
Visit for history talks, a “Fred Harvey Foodie Dinner & Auction,” museum events, and more celebrating Southwest and railway heritage.
media.newmexicoculture.org/event/6815/the-16th-annual-fred
Recycle Santa Fe Art Festival
When: Nov. 14–16
Where: Santa Fe
At this upcycled art market, local artists transform “trash” into treasures. The event includes costume contests and student art exhibits.
recyclesantafe.org
HomeGrown: Food Show and Gift Market
When: Nov. 22–23
Where: NM Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, Las Cruces
This event features around 60 vendors from across New Mexico offering local food, wine, crafts, and agricultural goods. It includes children’s wool-spinning activities with the Ag Wagon from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday.
nmfarmandranchmuseum.org/event/2025-homegrown-a-new-mexico-food-show-gift-market
Fort Selden Ranger Tours
When: Weekly through Nov. 26
Where: Fort Selden Historic Site, near Las Cruces
Join a guided walk led by a park ranger and explore 1,400 years of regional history—from Mogollon farming to Spanish arrival to the U.S. military era. Free for youth; $5 for adults.
lascruces.com/events-by-month/november-2025-events
NM Hobbler Gobbler Thanksgiving Day Run
When: Nov. 27
Where: Loma Colorado Park, Rio Rancho
Get physical for this festive 10K, 5K, and Kids’ K race—fun for runners and families alike.
findarace.com/us/events/nm-hobbler-gobbler-thanksgiving-day-run
Festival of the Cranes
When: Dec. 3–7
Where: Socorro and San Antonio
Immerse yourself in an awe-inspiring experience as thousands of sandhill cranes, snow geese, ducks, and other migratory birds return to the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. This year’s festival includes more than 100 birding and photography workshops, hikes, tours, an opening night celebration, annual dinner with a keynote speaker, and more.
festivalofthecranes.org
La Gran Pastorela
When: Dec. 5–7 and 12–14
Where: Albuquerque, Socorro, Belen, Mountainair, Tomé, and Santa Fe
Watch a traditional New Mexican shepherd’s play performed in multiple towns. This event is free and family-friendly.
lospastoresdebelen.wordpress.com
Las Vegas Electric Light Parade
When: Dec. 6
Where: Downtown Las Vegas (Douglas Avenue, Bridge Street, Plaza Park)
Kick off the Christmas season with marching bands, glowing floats, lighted vehicles, and Santa on a firetruck in this festive downtown parade.
visitlasvegasnm.com/events
Christmas in the Foothills
When: Dec. 6
Where: Hillsboro (Community Center & Hwy 152)
Treat yourself to holiday shopping, live music, handcrafted goods, art, food, and a silent auction. Free and family-friendly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
hillsborocommunity.com
Farm La-La
When: Dec. 10
Where: NM Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, Las Cruces
Experience a festive evening from 5–8 p.m. with trolley rides, lights, ornament making, tours, hot chocolate, s’mores, and a visit from Santa.
nmfarmandranchmuseum.org/event/farm-la-la-2025