2026 Sunshine Festival Passes Go Live
On Black Friday
Friday, November 28, 2025!
Plan Your Visit
Sunshine Festival - Sept 4 & 5, 2026
Head to the Sunshine Festival outside of Questa, NM for Sunshine Festival Sept 4–5, 2026. This guide covers directions, parking, on-site dry camping, accessibility, food vendors, and nearby lodging so you can plan an easy, comfortable visit.
Plan Your Visit — Sunshine Festival 2026
Welcome to Sunshine Festival! Here’s everything you need to plan a smooth, comfortable visit to our weekend in Sunshine Valley—just outside Questa, New Mexico.
Dates & Hours
- Friday, September 4, 2026: Evening program, 6:00–9:00 PM
- Saturday, September 5, 2026: Day program, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Expect live music, hands-on workshops, at least three food vendors, and a welcoming community vibe.
Location & Map
- Site: Southwest corner of NM-522 & Sunshine Valley Rd (private land), near Questa, NM.
- GPS coordinates: 36°50′32.36″ N, 105°35′16.23″ W
- Copy/paste the coordinates into Google Maps or Apple Maps. Follow event signage to the entrance on Sunshine Valley Road.
Tickets & Entry
- Free for locals from Questa, El Rito, Cerro, Lama, Sunshine Valley, and Costilla (bring something that shows your local address if possible).
- All others: $10 per person at the gate.
- Re-entry is allowed—keep your wristband on.
Parking
- Free parking is available near the site and will be clearly signed. Volunteers will guide you in.
On-Site Camping (Dry Camping)
- We offer limited, space-limited dry camping (no water, electric, or internet).
- Rate: $35 per night
- Surfaces are uneven and facilities are basic—come prepared to be self-reliant (water, lighting, power banks).
- Quiet hours are enforced after programming ends.
- Small RVs/trailers may fit as space allows; there are no hookups and no dump stations.
Food & Drink
- We’ll host at least three food vendors on site with a range of options. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.
Please do not bring alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs.
What to Bring
- Water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), layers for changing weather
- Sturdy closed-toe shoes (desert terrain)
- Cash (cell service can be spotty), a camp chair or blanket
- Portable power bank, headlamp/flashlight if camping
Accessibility
- Terrain is uneven and amenities are limited, but we are committed to helping you attend. If you have a disability or any access needs—including questions about on-site dry camping—please email info(at)sunshinefestivalnm(dot)com so we can discuss options and support. We’re working to improve paths, signage, restrooms, shade, and parking.
Families & Pets
- The festival is family-friendly with a range of activities; music styles vary and may include occasional colorful language.
Pets: Welcome on leash; please clean up after them. Service animals are always welcome.
Weather
- We’re a rain-or-shine event. Pack a light rain layer and footwear that can handle dust or drizzle. Severe weather plans are in place.
Nearby Lodging
- If you prefer to stay off-site, the area offers plenty of options:
- Questa: Cabins, small inns, RV sites with hookups, tent campgrounds, and short-term rentals.
- Red River (10–15 min east): Hotels, lodges, riverside cabins, condos, and additional dining. (Examples discussed: Alpine Lodge, Ponderosa Lodge, Best Western Rivers Edge, plus numerous cabins and condos.)
- Taos / Taos Ski Valley (35–50 min south): Broad range of hotels, B&Bs, and unique stays.
- Public lands: Dispersed camping on nearby BLM and USFS lands (follow agency rules, current fire restrictions, and pack-in/pack-out ethics).
Site Policies
- No alcohol, cannabis, or drugs in the campground.
- Smoking/vaping only in designated areas; respect fire restrictions.
- Be kind to the land: pack out trash, stay within marked areas, follow staff directions.
Volunteers, Vendors & Nonprofits
- Want to help, vend, or table? Check our website for interest forms or email us—there are opportunities for volunteers, food vendors, local makers, and nonprofits.

2026 Sunshine Festival
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