Top 5 Must-See October Events in Santa Fe
October invites us to savor autumn's beauty amid Santa Fe's stunning mountains and vibrant cultural scene. This guide spotlights five standout 2016 events—many annual traditions. Always verify current dates on official sites for the latest details.
Immerse Yourself in the Harvest Festival
Pumpkins and chile highlight the bounty at the Harvest Festival (Photo courtesy of Bill Todjno Photography)
The scent of roasting chiles in crisp October air sets the stage for harvest celebrations. Experience the Harvest Festival at Rancho de las Golondrinas, voted one of the nation's best fall harvest festivals by USA Today readers.
Join villagers foot-crushing grapes for wine, string chile ristras, make tortillas, and bake bread. Event: Saturday-Sunday, October 1-2, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Spectacular Fall Foliage via Chairlift
An unforgettable fall ride! (Photo courtesy of Ski Santa Fe)
Santa Feans and visitors revel in the aspens' golden hues. Early October, Ski Santa Fe runs the Super Chief Quad chairlift 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Enjoy fall music, cornhole, kids' treasure hunts, an 18-hole disc golf course, and live local tunes at La Casa Lodge deck. Check the event calendar.
Historic Canyon Road Paint and Sculpt Out
Hundreds of artists paint en plein air on Canyon Road (Photo courtesy of Pippin Contemporary)
The Annual Canyon Road Paint and Sculpt Out revives a century-old en plein air tradition. Witness hundreds of artists and thousands of enthusiasts in this major demonstration.
Friday gallery receptions, plus events at restaurants, boutiques, and shops. October 14-15, 2016; free and public.
The Santa Fe Art Project
Curated presentations by David Richards Gallery and others (Photo courtesy of David Richard Gallery)
For cutting-edge art, visit The Santa Fe Art Project. Features curated presentations, lectures, and tours with local artists in gallery settings.
Nearly 50 artists showcase paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography, videos, and media. Runs through November 6, 2016.
Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
Lensic Performing Arts Center hosts screenings (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe Independent Film Festival)
Year eight of the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival: 30+ features, 60 shorts, galas, panels, and discussions October 19-23 downtown.
Film fans, explore Santa Fe's growing industry via our Fall into Santa Fe Film blog.
Plan an October Santa Fe trip amid harvest, art, and film. Pair with the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Use the 2016 Santa Fe travel guide and Deals and Specials.
