Must Attend Colfax County Summer Events

The ultimate Colfax County summer events bucket list is officially here! Send this to your road-trip buddy and start planning an epic Colfax County summer!

Balloons Over Angel Fire

Kick off your summer on Father's Day weekend at one of the few high-mountain balloon events in the country with more than 30 vibrant hot air balloons rising over the Moreno Valley. It is a peaceful, awe-inspiring way to start the day, though you'll want to pack extra blankets for the chilly mountain sunrise.

When: June 19–21, 2026

Where: Angel Fire Airport • Angel Fire, New Mexico

International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally

For a more intimate experience, head to Raton for this Fourth of July weekend tradition. The rally is famous for its "up-close and personal" vibe where pilots often chat with curious kids while the local Elks Club serves up a legendary pancake breakfast. It’s smaller than the big-city festivals, making it much easier to navigate comfortably.

When: July 3–5, 2026

Where: La Mesa Airfield • Raton, New Mexico

Maverick Club Rodeo

Experience the spirit of the Old West at the annual Maverick Club Rodeo, one of the longest-running open rodeos in the West. The day starts with a classic downtown parade before moving to the arena for high-energy bronc riding, barrel racing, and calf roping. It is a high-octane celebration of cowboy grit that kids and adults alike will find unforgettable.

When: July 4, 2026

Where: Maverick Club Rodeo Grounds • Cimarron, New Mexico

Fireworks Over Eagle Nest Lake

There is something truly magical about seeing a massive fireworks display reflect off the surface of a high-altitude lake. This event is the centerpiece of Angel Fire and Eagle Nest’s Independence Day celebrations and offers plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the show. Just remember to bring your heaviest hoodies, as the temperature drops fast once the sun goes down over the water.

When: July 4, 2026 (At Dark)

Where: Eagle Nest Lake State Park • Eagle Nest, New Mexico

Gate City Music Festival

Wrap up your summer over Labor Day weekend with a two-day street festival in the heart of historic downtown Raton. The city transforms First Street into a giant block party with live bands, food trucks, and local vendors offering plenty of treats. The party continues at the historic Shuler Theater with “Exile” as the 2026 headliner!

When: September 5–6, 2026

Where: Historic 1st Street + Shuler Theater • Raton, New Mexico