Hatch Chile Festival, Hatch, New Mexico
Save the Dates: Hatch Chile Festival – September 4th & 5th, 2021!
Come the end of August, the air in Albuquerque, and much of New Mexico is filled with the spicy, smoky aroma of roasting chile peppers. Cookbook author Cheryl Jamison calls it “the most fragrant time of the year.” However, to really get in the spirit of the chile harvest season you need to visit the Hatch Chile Festival!
The Hatch Chile Festival
The highlight of the Fall chile harvest season is the Hatch Chile Festival, where the unique virtues of this prized local crop are showcased in every imaginable form of culinary treatment. Hatch Valley, New Mexico is known for unique soil and growing conditions that contribute a flavor to local chiles that goes far beyond the heat it may produce. It is that flavor that makes Hatch chiles a hotly sought item by discerning foodies across the nation.
The Hatch Chile Festival attracts nearly 40,000 visitors from all over the United States. Visitors can sample a wide range of famed chile recipes, watch the crowning of the chile festival queen, and join the party in celebration of our most famous crop. The event also features chile ristra contests, artisan and food booths, and a carnival.
The Hatch Chile Festival is held on the dates of September 4th & 5th, 2021. Located about 180 miles outside of Albuquerque on Interstate 25, it makes a wonderful day trip in celebration of one of the natural wonders of New Mexico. Visit the Hatch Chile Festival website for more information on this homegrown culinary celebration.