Above: Get delicious barbecue in this festival of meats. Photograph by Albuquerque Journal.
Santa Fe Wine Festival
June 30–July 1
Sample the variety and quality available from the 20 wineries at this favorite summer party (read about three in “Sip,” p. 18). El Rancho de las Golondrinas is the lush, historic setting for this kid-friendly event, which also has music, activities, and food. Skip the crowded parking lot and take a shuttle from Santa Fe or the NM 599 Rail Runner station (505-471-2261, golondrinas.org).
Rio Rancho Pork & Brew
June 29-July 1
Beer, barbecue, pig races, and pie-eating contests: Rio Rancho knows how to do summer. This three-day event attracts 15,000 people to the spacious Santa Ana Star Center grounds. The smoked meats are finger-lickin’ good. The beer? Plentiful and cold. Kids love the bouncy houses, petting zoo, face painting, and watermelon-eating contest (505-891-7258, rioranchonm.org/142/pork-brew).
Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival
July 27-29
For nearly 50 years, Ruidoso has drawn serious collectors to this 100-artist show at the Ruidoso Convention Center. This year, thirsty art lovers can also try samples from wineries that include Sheehan, Las Nueve Niñas, La Esperanza, and Ruidoso’s own Noisy Water. Sierra Blanca Brewing will be selling craft beer, and food vendors will have all the grub covered.(ruidosonow.com/art-festival).