There’s something special about fall in Santa Fe. The golden light, the vibrant leaves, the scent of roasting chile drifting through the air—it’s a season that wraps you in warmth and flavor. And at the center of it all is one of New Mexico’s most celebrated culinary events: the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta 2025.
Now in its 34th year, the 2025 Fiesta is more than just a food and wine festival. It’s a tribute to Santa Fe’s deep-rooted love for bold flavors, fine wines, and community. As a long-time follower of the event, I can confidently say this: if you love food, wine, and culture, this is the place to be.
Why the Fiesta Matters
Santa Fe’s cuisine is unlike anything else in the country. It mixes Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and Anglo influences, layered with heat, earthiness, and heart.
The Wine & Chile Fiesta brings this richness to the forefront, with some of the Southwest’s finest chefs, winemakers, and artisans coming together to create something unforgettable.
This isn’t just about fancy pairings or high-end tastings—it’s a week where chile is elevated to an art form, wine flows freely, and every dish tells a story.
The Event Overview
Dates: Wednesday, September 24 – Sunday, September 28, 2025
Tickets: On sale beginning June 18, 2025
Venues: Multiple locations throughout Santa Fe, including the Santa Fe Community Convention Center and Magers Field at Fort Marcy Park
The 2025 Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta returns from September 24 to 28, promising five days packed with flavor, festivities, and unforgettable experiences.
With tickets becoming available on June 18, early purchase is strongly encouraged—many of the most popular events, including the Grand Tasting and winery dinners, traditionally sell out fast.
Events unfold at key venues across the city. The Santa Fe Community Convention Center serves as a central hub for seminars and tastings, while Magers Field at Fort Marcy Park provides a scenic outdoor setting for marquee events like the Grand Tasting and Chile Friday, set against the backdrop of Santa Fe’s breathtaking mountain vistas.
Whether you’re a longtime Fiesta fan or planning your first visit to “The City Different,” this immersive, weeklong celebration is your ticket to experiencing the bold flavors, rich traditions, and culinary artistry that define New Mexico’s food and wine scene.
Key Events to Savor
Grand Tasting
When: Saturday, September 27, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Where: Magers Field at Fort Marcy Park
Often referred to as the “crown jewel” of the Fiesta, the Grand Tasting is where everything comes together. Set against a backdrop of New Mexico’s high desert beauty, over 60 award-winning restaurants and 90+ wineries offer tasting portions of their finest creations.
Shaded tables, grassy grounds, and live music make this the ultimate gathering for food lovers. It’s not just an event—it’s a flavorful celebration of Santa Fe’s identity.
This is the event where you’ll meet chefs, chat with vintners, and sip and savor your way through an unforgettable afternoon.
Chile Friday
When: Friday, September 26, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Where: Magers Field at Fort Marcy Park
Dedicated to New Mexico’s fiery favorite, Chile Friday highlights more than 30 culinary institutions presenting their best chile-centric creations.
Pair these bold bites with local craft beers, wines, and top-shelf margaritas from Patrón, Herradura, Don Fulano, and Don Julio. This event is a bold, spicy love letter to the flavors that define the Southwest.
Winery Dinners
When: September 23 – 26, at various restaurants throughout Santa Fe
These elegant evenings offer multi-course meals artfully paired with selections from distinguished wineries. A winery representative introduces each pairing, offering stories and insights that bring depth to each pour.
Due to their intimacy and exclusivity, these dinners sell out quickly—early reservations are a must.
Additional Activities to Explore at the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta 2025
Here’s your guide to the must-see, must-savor side events that round out this flavorful festival.
Cooking Demonstrations
Throughout the week, top chefs from Santa Fe and beyond will share their secrets in live cooking demonstrations. These sessions are both educational and entertaining, giving guests a behind-the-scenes look at the creativity, heritage, and technique behind the region’s distinctive cuisine.
- Learn how to prepare signature New Mexican dishes with a modern twist.
- Watch culinary pros in action—chopping, searing, and plating with flair.
- Get inspired with take-home tips and recipes straight from the pros.
Tip: Arrive early—seating is limited and these demos are popular!
Wine Seminars
For wine lovers eager to deepen their knowledge, the Fiesta’s curated wine seminars are a must.
Led by master sommeliers and acclaimed winemakers, these sessions delve into grape varieties, regional terroir, pairing principles, and the evolving landscape of American and international wines.
- Past topics have included:
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- The American Truffle Revolution — exploring truffle and wine pairings
- Legends of the Vine — a tribute to California’s Cabernet heritage
- Southwest Terroir — understanding the unique flavor profiles of local wines
- Special Guests: Tim Gaiser, Master Sommelier and Fiesta favorite, and cheese educator Lisa Werlin will return with engaging, sensory-rich sessions.
Whether you’re a budding sommelier or a curious sipper, you’ll walk away with new knowledge and favorites.
Artisan Markets
Celebrate Santa Fe’s vibrant maker culture at the Fiesta’s artisan markets, where food, art, and craftsmanship collide.
- Shop handcrafted pottery, textiles, gourmet sauces, chile-infused spice blends, and more.
- Meet local artisans and learn the stories behind their craft.
- Take home one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the soul of New Mexico.
Perfect for gifts, keepsakes, or your kitchen collection.
Sunset Wine Tour on the Sky Railway
Embark on a magical journey through the high desert with the Sky Railway’s Sunset Wine Tour.
- Sip curated wines while watching the landscape transform under golden-hour skies.
- Enjoy expert wine guidance from onboard sommeliers.
- Relax in vintage-style rail cars with plush seating and panoramic views.
Highlight: The dramatic desert sunset is a photo-worthy moment you won’t forget.
Opera Tailgating at the Santa Fe Opera
Santa Fe’s iconic opera tailgating tradition adds an elegant twist to pre-performance dining.
- Set up your gourmet picnic or grab artisan bites from local vendors.
- Enjoy wine, cheese, and conversation as the sun sets over the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
- Then take in a world-class opera performance under the stars.
Bring your best tableware! Part of the fun is turning your tailgate into a fine-dining experience.
Champagne Brunch & Rosé Extravaganza
Close out your Fiesta weekend on a high note—with bubbles and brunch.
- Indulge in a luxe Champagne brunch featuring decadent dishes and sparkling pairings.
- Join the Rosé Extravaganza for an upbeat, pink-hued tasting party with selections from top vineyards.
- Mingle, sip, and toast to a weekend of unforgettable flavor.
Vibe check: Think garden party meets wine tasting—with extra sparkle.
Where to Stay and How to Get Around
If you’re traveling in for the Fiesta, we highly recommend booking early. One standout option is the Out West Santa Fe Wine & Chile Weekend Getaway, which includes accommodations at Hacienda Doña Andrea. Nestled in the mountains just outside the city, this charming hacienda is both peaceful and perfectly positioned for a wine-and-dine retreat.
Other top lodging options include:
- Four Kachinas Inn, a cozy bed and breakfast just steps from downtown. Their warm hospitality and Southwest decor make it feel like a home away from home.
- El Farolito B&B, their sister inn, offers a similarly welcoming experience with easy access to all the festivities.
- La Fonda on the Plaza, for those who want a luxurious stay in a historic setting.
Santa Fe is wonderfully walkable, especially around the downtown core. For winery dinners and evening events, consider using ride-shares or local shuttles.
Tips for Attending Like a Pro
- Buy Tickets Early – Especially for the Grand Tasting and winery dinners, which tend to sell out.
- Plan Your Itinerary – With so much happening, it helps to map out your schedule in advance.
- Make Dinner Reservations – Santa Fe restaurants fill up quickly during Fiesta week.
- Stay Hydrated – The combination of wine, altitude, and sun means you’ll need more water than usual.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes – You’ll be walking and standing a lot, especially during tasting events.
Why We Love This Event
Every year, this Fiesta reminds us why we do what we do at Losfoodies Magazine. It’s not just about eating or drinking — it’s about experiencing culture through flavor. It’s about the way a chile-laced tamale can transport you to your grandmother’s kitchen, or how a sip of wine can spark a conversation that lingers for hours.
The Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta captures the essence of New Mexico: colorful, soulful, fiery, and full of heart. It’s a must-attend for food and wine lovers from all walks of life, and we can’t wait to be there again this year.
Learn More and Get Tickets
For full event schedules, ticketing details, and updates, visit the official Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta website. And stay tuned to Losfoodies Magazine for chef profiles, wine spotlights, and insider stories leading up to the big week.
We’ll see you in Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta 2025—glass in hand, fork ready, and appetite open.
