With an area rich in culture, food and traditions, it is not surprising that Las Cruces events, fiestas and festivals are such an important part of the area. Some provide remarkable offerings, like the World’s Largest Enchilada, while others provide historic celebrations. Whatever they have to offer, you can be sure to find a favorite fiesta. To help, the following are a few of the biggest and best fiestas and festivals in Southern New Mexico throughout the year.
Diez Y Seis De Septiembre Fiesta In Las Cruces
Diez Y Seis FiestaDiez y Seis de Septiembre, or the 16th of September, in 1810 was a brand new day for Mexico, marking the launch of Mexico’s struggle for independence from Spain. Miguel Hidalgo de Costilla led the first large revolutionary force against the Spaniards, leading men, women and children around Mexico to celebrate the holiday, which is similar to July 4 in the U.S. Knowing how to do it right, Old Mesilla brings out the festivities each year to celebrate Mexican Independence Day at the Mesilla Plaza. With folklorico dances, mariachi music and authentic Mexican cuisine, the festival brings in tourists from around the world.
When: Weekend closest to September 16
Where: Mesilla Plaza
Cost: FREE
Info: 575.524.3262 or www.oldmesilla.org
The Whole Enchilada Fiesta
The Whole Enchilada Fiesta – Since 1980, Las Cruces has been home to a very big enchilada, in fact, it’s so big that it received recognition from the Guinness Book of World Records. For recognition that big, it makes complete sense to have a three-day fiesta celebration! The fiesta is centered on the making of the enchilada, which measures over 30 feet in diameter and is filled 75 gallons of red chile sauce, 175 pounds of grated cheese and 50 pounds of chopped onions. Without a doubt, the super-sized enchilada is popular, but it’s not all that draws more than 100,000 visitors each year. The fiesta includes arts and crafts, a parade, entertainment, beer tent and cultural from around the state. Some call the Whole Enchilada Fiesta the biggest block party in the state.
When: Last week of September
Where: Meercheidt Recreation Center
Cost: $4 for 7 years and older – $5 for Beer Garden admission
Info: 575.526.1938
Southern New Mexico State Fair
First Weekend in October
Held at the Southern New Mexico State Fair Grounds, 12 miles west of Las Cruces, this major regional fair offers livestock and agriculture exhibits, baking contests, a rodeo, entertainment and dancing, great southwestern food, a carnival, games and rides.
snmstatefairgrounds.net
International Mariachi Conference
Second Weekend in November
The Annual Las Cruces International Mariachi Conference celebrates 150 years of cultural traditions. Scheduled for 4 days, at the Pan American Center the conference focuses on educational workshops in Mariachi Music and Folkloric Dance. Saturday Spectacular Concert featuring top name performers.
www.lascrucesmariachi.org
Cowboy Days
Third Weekend in October
This NM Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum annual event celebrates the American Cowboy and his counterpart the Mexican Vaquero with music performances, exhibits, roping and livestock demonstrations, blacksmithing, and chuckwagon cooking.
www.nmfarmandranchmuseum.org
The Renaissance Craft Faire
First Weekend in November
Each year the Queen and her court call forth throughout the realm for all to come to Young Park to celebrate, play and feast. This is the finest and largest Renaissance Faire in the Southwest. The event features over 100 quality crafts booths, main stage entertainment and minstrels in the park, games, contests, and a large selection of food vendors.
https://daarts.org/renaissance-artsfaire/www.renaissance-faire.com
Dia de los Muertos
November 1-2
Celebrate the ritual Mexican Day of the Dead holiday with lots of music and food. Join the candlelight procession as the dead are honored and remembered. Homemade altars are on display and a giant piñata is broken open.
www.oldmesilla.org
More Las Cruces Events Held Throughout The Year