Turnin’ Up Summer: New Mexico’s Outdoor Party Scene Reps Vibes & Views
Check out our guide to the concerts, festivals, film screenings and patios that New Mexico's summer outdoor party scene has to offer.
by Kristin Satterlee
Summer is here, with days so hot and bright they’ll scorch your eyeballs. But in the high desert, when the sun goes down, the mercury falls—and then it’s time to get outside and enjoy the gorgeous, sultry evenings. We’ve pulled together a few premier opportunities to get your summertime nightlife started.
Music & Movies
Albuquerque Summerfest
The City of Albuquerque’s recurring (free!) summer party and music series is back! At Route 66 Summerfest on July 20, food trucks, kids’ activities, adult beverages, vendors, and music will keep you entertained along a mile of Central Avenue through Nob Hill. Westside Summerfest follows on Aug. 3, at Ventana Ranch Community Park.
Music Under the Stars
This series at the Albuquerque Museum is now in its 33rd year! It features salsa, jazz, blues, and more from 7-10pm. Ticket prices vary, but are usually $20 or $25. Don’t miss the popular Ladies Sing the Blues show on Aug. 3! Tickets sell out fast, so check out the lineup at nmjazz.org/catch-a-show to get yours while you can.
BioPark Concerts—Zoo Music and Garden Music
Spread a blanket on the lawn and chill to great music! The BioPark series features musical groups in styles ranging from Latin pop through jazz and R&B to reggae and rock. The botanical garden features local talent on Thursdays, while the zoo brings in national touring groups on Fridays. Check cabq.gov for a schedule and ticket prices.
Santa Fe’s Summer Scene
A gem! Santa Fe’s Summer Scene features tons of music and movies at the Railyards and Santa Fe Plaza throughout July and August. Check out La Dame Blanche, The Muppet Movie, Sir Woman, Fantastic Negrito, and much more—all for free! Visit lensic360.org for a full lineup.
Party Patios
Nexus Blue Smokehouse
You may know Nexus Blue (1511 Broadway Blvd. SE) has some of the best ’cue in the Q, but did you know the building boasts a beautiful patio in back and even a small lawn? Stop in for a brew and some barbecue—and if you’re lucky, you might hear some live music, too.
Sixty-Six Acres
Across from the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Sixty-Six Acres (2400 12th St. NW) boasts a big, pet-friendly patio and a daily happy hour, and supports local craft brewers and distillers.
Sawmill Market
The cavernous food hall at Sawmill Market (1909 Bellamah Ave. NW) caters to a kaleidoscope of tastes, from burgers to gyros to poke bowls and New Mexican food—plus stops for beer, cocktails, and dessert! Bring the whole crew to eat and hang out in the huge courtyard. There’s even entertainment on select nights.
Vara Winery Balloon Fiesta Park Tasting Room
At Vara Winery & Distillery’s Tasting Room at Balloon Fiesta Park (315 Alameda Blvd. NW), bring your own food or order locally made snacks as you hang out on Vara’s new lawn space and enjoy a craft cocktail or a glass of wine.