Experience the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta: A Culinary and Wine Celebration
The Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta is an annual five-day event that celebrates the culinary artistry of Santa Fe, New Mexico's premier restaurants paired with exceptional wines from around the world.
With 90 wineries partnering alongside 75 of the city's top restaurants, the fiesta features cooking demonstrations, wine seminars, winery luncheons, and special dinners. The highlight is the Grand Tasting at the Santa Fe Opera, where all participating restaurants and wineries offer samples of their finest offerings. The 27th Annual Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta runs from September 27 to October 1, 2017, kicking off with an art preview party on September 12.
Here's a preview of key events:
Each year, a special artwork is selected for the fiesta. This year's choice is “Dark Forms with Red Sky” by Dick Evans. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta)The Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta also hosts its own film festival on September 24 and 25 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Violet Crown. Enjoy two films each night: "Bottle Shock" and “Heavenly Vintage” on the 24th, followed by "The Secret of Santa Vittoria" and Somm II (Into the Bottle) on the 25th. Tickets include a food and wine reception.
Cooking demonstrations are a fiesta staple, featuring renowned chefs: Fernando Olea from Sazon Santa Fe, James Campbell Caruso of La Boca, Rick Bayless from Topolobampo in Chicago, Martin Rios of Restaurant Martin, Kai Autenrieth from Terra at Four Seasons, and Cristian Pontiggia from El Nido.
Don't miss the exclusive wine pairing dinners at select Santa Fe restaurants. A winery representative introduces the wines paired with a custom menu. Reserve early by contacting the host restaurants. Find participating venues here.
Over 75 restaurants prepare delectable food pairings. (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)
The crown jewel is the Grand Tasting on September 30 at the Santa Fe Opera from 1:00-4:00 p.m. This year features a more spacious, guest-friendly layout with shaded seating and immediate access to food and wine upon entry—no more lines. Parking passes are required; purchase e-tickets in advance. Free shuttles run from 11:30 a.m. from the PERA building at Paseo de Peralta and Old Santa Fe Trail (free parking available).
Over 90 wineries showcase their best selections. (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)
Add this premier food and wine event to your itinerary. View the full schedule here. Tickets sell out fast—buy early. September is ideal for visiting Santa Fe. Plan now with the 2017 Santa Fe Travel Guide and check Deals and Specials for savings on stays, dining, and more.
