Back to the ranch: Placitas RanchFest™ returns this summer
by Rodd CaytonApril 27, 2026
An adult bison and a calf taking a stroll. Bison are new at the Elk Ridge Ranch, site of the June 20 Placitas RanchFest.
Placitas RanchFest is back, bigger and bringing babies.
The June 20 affair is the second iteration and first as the flagship event of New Mexico RanchFest, which organizers say is rooted in ranch life, local culture, and community connection. West said more than 1,200 attended the first RanchFest. “Last year was more successful than we’d hoped,” he told the Sandoval Signpost. “From that, we’ve learned how to make this year’s run even smoother — better vendor locations, bigger name musicians, and the addition of bison on the ranch with our elk will make this even more fun.”
An adult bison and a calf taking a stroll. Bison are new at the Elk Ridge Ranch, site of the June 20 Placitas RanchFest.
Keith Allen West, creator of the event and owner of New Mexico RanchFest, says he wants to highlight New Mexico’s creative souls at festivals across the state. “What started as a single-day gathering has grown into something much larger,” he said in a news release. “A platform to showcase makers, musicians, and ranch traditions in an authentic and elevated way.”
The 2026 event, at Elk Ridge Ranch, 772 State Route 165, will feature live music from New Mexico artists, a vendor market of local artisans, food and beverage offerings from regional establishments and ranch tours and animal experiences. It runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 and parking is $15.
“Adding to the magic of the day, Elk Ridge Ranch is expecting the arrival of new elk and bison calves in the weeks leading up to the event,” West said. “Guests may have the rare opportunity to witness these young animals as part of their first summer on the ranch — an authentic and memorable glimpse into the rhythms of ranch life in New Mexico.”
