While many associate summer with vacations, a fall getaway offers a unique opportunity to skip the heat and crowds. Visit Las Cruces invites travelers to experience chile, wine, agricultural traditions, and art in southern New Mexico.
In addition to mild temps, ideal for exploring numerous hiking and biking trails, fall brings several iconic events to Las Cruces.
Browse local art and experience New Mexico culture at the 17th annual Franciscan Festival of Fine Arts, Saturday, Sept. 3 and Sunday, Sept. 4. Attendees can shop jewelry, art, quilts and more, while listening to live music and enjoying local beer and wine and an enchilada dinner. A favorite among locals, this intimate festival features over 75 vendor and food booths, as well as a raffle and silent auction.
Wine lovers can indulge their appetite for local reds and whites at the Harvest Wine Festival. Held over Labor Day Weekend, the wine fest is the place to sample a variety of selections from the oldest wine-producing region in the nation. With a rich history, dating back over 400 years, Las Cruces is home to many acclaimed wineries, which will be featured throughout the weekend. Sip, sample, and take home a bottle from wineries, including Luna Rossa Winery, Amaro Winery, Heart of the Desert, D.H. Lescombes, and more.
Spice up your travels with visit to the Hatch Chile Festival, Saturday, Sept. 3 and Sunday, Sept. 4. Located about 30 minutes from Las Cruces, the festival takes place in the Village of Hatch and features food vendors, entertainment, a parade and carnival, a rock-climbing wall, a motorbike run, and a cornhole tournament, as well as chile, watermelon and ice cream eating contests.