Five things to do in Socorro County

If you are planning a visit to Socorro County this week, there is always something to do. From local music, farmer’s markets and more, Socorro County is the center for events this weekend in central New Mexico.

1. Looking for a free flu, shingles or pneumonia shot, attend the first-ever Senior Expo from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, October 3, at the Socorro Convention Center, 1220 US Highway 60. Join El Defensor Chieftain, Valencia County News-Bulletin, Presbyterian Socorro General Hospital and the City of Socorro for a free one-day community event offering senior citizens and their family’s information on products and services for healthy living.

2.Do you want to brush up on your painting skills or looking to learn new ones? New Mexico Tech’s Performing Arts Series and the Macey Center is offering a special night of painting instruction, food and fun on Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, on the Macey Center Stage. What better way to wind down the week than in front of a canvas, with a cocktail or mocktail close by? The evening will kick off at 6 p.m. Tickets are $30 for members of the general public and $15 for NMT students. The fee includes all art supplies

3.The Socorro County Historical Society will celebrate Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 5 at the Hammel Museum at 601 North 6th street in Socorro beginning at 11 a.m. There will be the traditional food from the grill featuring brats, sauerkraut, hamburgers and other goodies. At 11 a.m. will be the kickoff the day’s entertainment features starting with Dr. Comstock’s Oompah band followed by the Sax Kittens, and Tyler Lam.

4. Love testing local green or red chile? The Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex will be the place. The New Mexico Chile Festival will be conducted from 2 to 8 p.m., Saturday, October 5, at the Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex. Taste chile from around the state plus there will be a kid zone and a Cornhole contest. The Pacemakers from Socorro will perform at 5 p.m. Admission is free.

5. Blessing of the Animals sponsored by Epiphany Episcopal Church, 908 Leroy Place, will take place on Sunday, October 6 at 12:15 p.m. Bring your precious critter to the church for the occasion. The church also will be blessing the animals in Magdalena at the Magdalena rodeo grounds at 1:15 p.m. on the same day. All are welcome.