New Mexico is the oldest wine growing region in the United States, with Franciscan fathers having planted grapes in what was known as Senecu, New Mexico, in the year 1629. And since the oughts, New Mexico has been touted as having one of the fastest growing micro brewery industries in the country. So celebrating these beverages’ distinctive presence in New Mexico, the theater proudly presents the first Spencer Wine & Brew Festival during Independence weekend. At the day-long July 5th festival, vintners and breweries will be offering pours at booths set around both levels of the Spencer’s Crystal Lobby, which will also be adorned with arts and crafts vendors of jewelry, paintings, textiles and pottery, among other items. Spencer cuisine will be available for purchase to pair with your wide selection of tantalizing beverages. Live light rock, pop, folk and jazz music will be performed by area musicians to set the scene for this fine New Mexico wine and beer festival. This first time event at the Spencer is coming together with gusto. Detailed information is continuing to brew (please check Spencer website for more detailed festival information), but thus far the wineries that will be on site are Noisy Water, Pecos Flavors, St. Clair Winery and Tularosa Vineyards, with more wineries, micro breweries and artists added to the mix. Sponsored in part by First National Bank of Ruidoso Ticket Information: Order Wine and Beer Festival July 5 at 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. $20 Advance $25 Day of Festival