Borderland

In April or May the Celebration of Spring happens Downtown in the Big Ditch Park, with crafts booths, activities, and lots of frolicking in the balmy weather. This fiesta marks the opening of the city's farmers’ market at Bullard and 6th Street. The Silver City Blues Festival, which runs for three days in late May in Gough Park (Downtown), has become an international draw, but still has the spirit of a block party where young and old dance on the grass under beautiful, starry skies. September brings the Gila River Festival (www.gilaconservation.org 575/538–8078), which celebrates the 650-mile river and the wilderness it runs through, with renowned speakers and events (films, hikes, photography workshops) on themes from biodiversity to conservation and habitat. October brings the Taste of Silver City where, for the price of a ticket, you can walk around Downtown sampling food and treats from many participating establishments. The calendar of events and activities at www.silvercity.org gives comprehensive information, or you can call the Silver City Main Street Project (575/534–1700) for Downtown events.

The Tour de Gila annual high-altitude ride (usually in late April or early May) brings out serious competitive cyclists (Taylor Phinney triumphed here over Lance Armstrong in 2010). The 540-km men’s course is a five-day event; the women’s course is slightly shorter (www.tourofthegila.com).