This New Mexico Cherry Festival Is a Family-Friendly Summer Favorite

Okay so I will be honest, I am not much of a cherry lover. I prefer strawberries or when it comes to pies my go-to is a good ole fashioned apple pie! However, my opinions have changed after I tried fresh cherries from the Nichols Ranch and Orchards and you can become obsessed too!

If your idea of a perfect summer weekend includes fresh cherries, homemade pie, live music, and breathtaking mountain views, then mark your calendar for the 2026 Cherry Festival in the Sacramento Mountains.

Hosted by Nichols Ranch and Orchards, this beloved annual tradition celebrates more than 100 years of cherry-growing history in the region. 

Nichols Ranch and Orchards Facebook

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Cherry-Picking, Pie, Mountain Views and more! 

Festival-goers can enjoy cherry-picking straight from the orchard, indulge in delicious cherry pie and cherry cider, and take in the amazing views of the Tularosa Basin and White Sands National Park.

The three-day festival will feature more than 20 food and snack vendors and over 85 arts and crafts vendors, making it the perfect place to shop, snack, and explore. Guests can also enjoy beer and wine from local breweries and wineries while listening to live music throughout the weekend. 

Performers include Los Xoloz, Roscoe and the Booze Hounds, Captain Klaus, Phil Hamilton Band, Rosewater Blues, and several other regional favorites.

Families will find plenty to keep the kids entertained with a petting zoo, face painting, games, and other activities designed for all ages.

Nichols Ranch and Orchards Facebook

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Organizers encourage visitors to come prepared to climb a mountain 

The festival takes place on a working farm at an elevation of 6,800 feet and involves plenty of walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a wagon for carrying cherries and festival finds are highly recommended.

Whether you're coming for the cherries, the music, or the mountain air, the Cherry Festival promises a memorable summer experience for the entire family.