Entertainment

Santa Fe Indian Market
Held annually in downtown Santa Fe, the Indian Market is a vibrant celebration of Native American art and culture. Featuring thousands of artists from tribes across the United States and Canada, visitors can browse and purchase traditional and contemporary artwork ranging from pottery and jewelry to paintings and sculptures. The market also includes performances, demonstrations, and traditional dances, offering an immersive experience into Indigenous heritage.

International Folk Art Market
Recognized as one of the premier folk art events globally, the International Folk Art Market gathers master artisans from around the world in Santa Fe. Visitors have the opportunity to explore and purchase handmade crafts representing diverse cultures and traditions, including textiles, ceramics, woodwork, and more. Beyond shopping, the market features live music, dance performances, and culinary delights, creating a rich cultural exchange for attendees.

Santa Fe Opera
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Santa Fe Opera is renowned for its world-class productions and stunning outdoor venue. From beloved classics to contemporary works, the festival showcases a diverse repertoire performed by top-tier singers, musicians, and production teams. Attendees can enjoy pre-performance talks, backstage tours, and scenic picnics, making each evening a memorable cultural experience.

Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta
Celebrating the region’s vibrant culinary scene, the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta is a gastronomic extravaganza not to be missed. Throughout the festival, local chefs partner with wineries to present a series of exquisite wine-pairing dinners, cooking demonstrations, and tasting events. From bold reds to crisp whites, attendees can savor an array of wines alongside innovative dishes inspired by Southwestern flavors, showcasing the best of Santa Fe’s food and drink culture.

Canyon Road Paint Out
Transforming one of Santa Fe’s most iconic streets into a bustling outdoor gallery, the Canyon Road Paint Out invites artists to capture the beauty and charm of this historic art district en plein air. Throughout the event, painters set up their easels along Canyon Road, showcasing their talent and creativity as they create works inspired by the city’s architecture, landscapes, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the street, interact with artists, and even purchase freshly painted artworks, making it a unique and engaging experience for art enthusiasts of all ages.

Santa Fe International Film Festival
Celebrating the art of cinema, the Santa Fe International Film Festival showcases a diverse selection of independent films from around the world. Spanning various genres and styles, the festival features screenings, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, panel discussions, and special events, providing a platform for emerging talent and established auteurs alike. From thought-provoking documentaries to captivating narratives, attendees can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of storytelling that defines the global film landscape.

Santa Fe Bandstand
From June to August, the Santa Fe Bandstand enlivens the historic downtown plaza with a vibrant mix of live music performances spanning genres such as jazz, blues, rock, folk, and more. Featuring both local talent and renowned musicians from across the country, the free outdoor concerts draw crowds of locals and visitors alike, creating a lively and festive atmosphere under the New Mexico sky.

Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival
Held annually in various historic venues throughout Santa Fe, the Chamber Music Festival showcases world-class performances by renowned chamber ensembles and soloists. Spanning classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions, the festival’s diverse program appeals to music lovers of all tastes. In addition to concerts, the festival offers educational outreach programs, masterclasses, and lectures, fostering a deeper appreciation for chamber music and its rich cultural heritage.

Traditional Spanish Market
Rooted in Santa Fe’s rich colonial history, the Traditional Spanish Market is a time-honored celebration of Spanish colonial arts and crafts. Taking place on the historic Santa Fe Plaza, the market features local artisans showcasing their traditional techniques in mediums such as woodcarving, tinwork, colcha embroidery, and straw appliqué. Visitors can browse and purchase authentic handmade goods while enjoying live music, dance performances, and demonstrations that highlight the enduring legacy of Spanish culture in New Mexico.

Burning of Zozobra
Every year in Santa Fe, the air fills with anticipation and excitement as the community gathers to witness the burning of Zozobra, an iconic tradition dating back to 1924. This larger-than-life marionette, representing gloom and all the troubles of the past year, looms ominously over the crowd. As the sun dips below the horizon, the atmosphere crackles with energy. The chants and cheers grow louder as the time draws near for Zozobra’s fiery demise. Then, with a roar of flames and a cascade of sparks, Zozobra is set alight, his wails echoing through the night. It’s a cathartic experience for all, a symbolic shedding of negativity and a chance to embrace new beginnings. As the embers fade and the night sky glows, the spirit of renewal fills the hearts of all who witness this captivating spectacle, reaffirming the resilience and unity of the Santa Fe community.

Santa Fe Farmers’ Market
A beloved institution in Santa Fe, the Farmers’ Market showcases the bounty of New Mexico’s agricultural and artisanal offerings. Held multiple times a week in the Railyard district, the market features a wide array of fresh produce, local meats, dairy products, baked goods, and handcrafted goods from regional farmers and artisans. Visitors can explore the stalls, sample seasonal delights, and engage with vendors to learn about the sustainable practices and traditional techniques that define New Mexico’s agricultural heritage.

Various seasonal festivals and cultural events
In addition to the aforementioned flagship events, Santa Fe hosts a diverse array of seasonal festivals and cultural celebrations throughout the year. From the vibrant Dia de los Muertos festivities to the colorful Santa Fe Pride events, there’s always something happening in the city to showcase its rich cultural tapestry and spirit of inclusivity. Whether it’s a traditional fiesta, a contemporary art exhibition, or a culinary festival celebrating local flavors, these events contribute to the dynamic and eclectic character of Santa Fe, making it a vibrant destination for visitors from near and far.