The Wind Rider Mountain Festival: Family Friendly Fun

Legend has it the Creator gave life to the Apache people on Sierra Blanca when White Painted Woman gave birth to two sons, who grew up to be courageous and accomplished warriors. Ski Apache will attempt to pay tribute to this sacred site with music and culture when it presents the third annual Wind Rider Mountain Festival on Memorial Day weekend, May 26-28. This scenic paradise will host a three-day music celebration with more than 30 bands between two stages featuring the genres of bluegrass, jam, rock and folk. Spafford, The Werks, Poor Man’s Whiskey, Ray Wylie Hubbard and local favorite Jones & Miles are just a few names that will be appearing. But that’s not all!

A Kansas City Barbeque Society-sanctioned competition is on tap and expected to draw impressive grillers from around the country to a cook-off moment of truth to determine who takes home the esteemed title of Grand Champion. A total purse of $9,000 will be paid to the top 10 spots in each category. Food aficionados and attendees of this event will be the real winners as they taste the fine culinary efforts of the participating cooks on site. But wait, there’s even more enjoyment being offered.

Guests to this event are encouraged to experience other included activities, such as downhill mountain biking; zip lining; craft beer; delectable cuisine; local vendors and art. Tent and RV camping are another part of the festivities. Sleep under the stars if you desire on one of the two campgrounds provided on location. There are multiple fun activities for children – such as the ever-popular bounce houses. Enjoy it all set within the 9,600-foot above sea level scenic beauty of Ski Apache. As one can readily see, the Wind Rider Mountain Festival is designed for the entire family, as well as reunions or a getaway weekend for a couple.

Campsites are $25 and are available on Lower Moonshine Trail and Bunny Hill. RV spots are $35. Camping and RV prices are good for all three nights. General admission tickets are $85. Free parking is provided for all Festival ticket holders. Children 5-and-under are admitted free with a paying adult.

You may pre-purchase tickets on Yapsody, The Inn of the Mountain Gods box office and Ski Apache ticket sales. Ski Apache is located at 1286 Ski Run Road, Alto, N.M. 88312, just 30 minutes from the panoramic mountain village of Ruidoso. For more information on this eagerly anticipated event you may call Justin Huffmon at 575-464-3630 or go here or here.

—Michael Curran