How do I purchase tickets?
General Admission 3-Day Passes will go on sale beginning May 8th, 2023 through a link provided on our website, newsletter and social media. If available, Single Day Tickets will be for sale beginning on July 17th through the same outlets. We will have Saturday Night Only tickets available this year, which gets you in beginning at 6:30pm for the Big Dance and Barn Dance Finale. It is highly unlikely that tickets will be available for purchase at the gates, so don’t wait!
How do I purchase a VIP ticket?
If you are interested in purchasing VIP tickets, please send an email to info@highdesertent.com for more information and to get on the waiting list. Those who were VIP at the 2022 event will have first rights for VIP tickets this year. Beginning on April 3rd, we will contact our 2022 VIPs to make their reservation and payments. On April 24th, we will open up any remaining VIP tickets to the waiting list based on the order we received the request.
Can I volunteer in exchange for a 3-day pass to the event?
Yes! We are in need of reliable volunteers to assist with the event. In exchange for working two (2) 4-hour shifts, you’ll receive a pass for the entire event. We have many shifts still available from being a wristband checker at certain checkpoints to working the entry gates, merchandise tent and more. Email us at volunteer@highdesertent.com for more information
When can I pick up my wristband?
We highly encourage you to get your wristband early to avoid waiting in long lines when doors open. Come see us either on Wednesday evening at the Art Gallery Hop (location and times TBD) or Thursday morning at the main entry gates beginning at 9am. If you’re not able to come early, you can still pick your wristband at the main entry gate each day of the event from 12:00pm-8:00pm.
Does the 3-Day pass and the Saturday Only ticket include entrance to Saturday night’s ‘Barn Dance’?
Yes! The 3-Day Pass includes entry for the entire weekend including the Barn Dance on Saturday night.
When will the line up be announced?
We’re aiming to have a preliminary lineup announced on May 15th.
What is the “Barn Dance”?
At around 6:30pm on Saturday night, we will clear all the chairs off the big dance floor in the main tent and turn our “listening room” into the biggest “Barn Dance” in the southwest! Barn Dance Only Tickets(beginning at 6:30pm on Saturday) will be available to purchase online under our tickets tab or at the door for $30 cash only.
Will there be protection from the sun and rain?
Yes! We have a large, seated, open air, “listening room” style tent that will keep you cool from the sun and dry from the rain. New Mexico weather can be unpredictable in September however, so come prepared for sunny days, chilly nights, and the possibility of a New Mexico rain.
Can I bring my own chairs?
Seating will be provided under the main tent throughout the weekend (until Saturday night’s Barn Dance of course!). If you bring your own chair, we ask that you keep it in the lawn area only outside of the tent/main seating area.
Are there reserved seats inside the tent?
Seating inside the main tent is first come, first served. Seats may not be held overnight. Big Barn Dance is not responsible for items left overnight, and all items left behind will be placed in lost and found. ONLY New Mexico Rain package VIPs may reserve seats, which will be reserved by a Big Barn Dance staff member.
Is there Handicapped Parking or Seating Available?
There is a designated handicapped parking lot for Big Barn Dance which is located immediately on your left when you drive through the main entrance to Kit Carson Park (211 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte). You can also do drop off / pick ups closer to the main festival entrance by entering through the VIP Parking Entrance located at Civic Plaza Drive. Just let security know that you are dropping someone off and they will give you temporary access to the drop-off location. Those with physical disabilities or anybody needing special assistance to get inside the venue will be asked to report to the VIP Entrance. All handicapped parking and seating is first come, first served. Plan to arrive early.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Absolutely NO outside food or drinks are allowed inside the festival grounds. We will have several free water stations available on the festival grounds – please feel free to bring your empty water bottle for water refills!
Will camping be available?
Yes! We have limited RV camping (with NO hookups) available on the park grounds near the festival site. Please email barndancervcamping@highdesertent.com for more information.
Are dogs allowed at the festival?
Yes! We love our furry friends, but it’s very important to preserve the “listening room” experience for all our human festival goers. We will have very strict rules and guidelines including a barking policy, a potty policy and more. You will be asked to check your dog in at the front gates and sign a waiver. Please note, dogs may not come under the tent or block pedestrian walkways of any kind.
Will there be dance lessons?
Yes! Dance lessons will be Saturday morning from 10am-12pm. They are free with your Big Barn Dance ticket.
What is the Taos Art Gallery Stroll?
The Taos Art Gallery Stroll will take place on the Wednesday before the festival. Stay tuned to the schedule page and our Facebook page for details!
Is the bar cash only?
No, there will be multiple ways to pay for drinks, including cash and card. We will not have an ATM on-site, so please come prepared. We do offer a full bar that includes beer, wine, and liquor.
Can I be a food or craft vendor at the festival?
Yes, we are currently accepting applications for craft and food vendors at the event. Please email info@highdesertent.com for more information.
Bag Policy
Small bags and backpacks are permitted on festival grounds and are subject to be searched by security at any point.
Can I get a refund on my ticket?
We will not be offering refunds or transfers under any circumstance on 2023 Tickets. All sales are final. This is a rain or shine event.