Many argue summer is the best time to visit The City Different. The city is in full bloom, the weather is near perfect, and there is oh so much to do. If you are planning a trip to Santa Fe this summer, don’t miss these must-see markets, festivals, and exhibitions.
SUMMER SCENE (Live Music)
June 8–August 31, 2023
Nearly every day of the summer you can experience a live performance from a local and/or national musical act via the programming brought to you by the Summer Scene. On the historic Plaza, enjoy the grass and the trees while listening and grooving. Or check out the lineup at the Railyard amid food trucks, brewpubs, and plenty of parking. Such an uplifting time!
CURRENTS NEW MEDIA FESTIVAL
June 16–25, 2023
The Santa Fe County Fairgrounds hosts CURRENTS New Media Festival again in 2023. At this art and technology extravaganza, expect immersive and expansive art experiences in new media for all ages—animation, virtual and augmented realities, interactive installations and video, multimedia performances, experimental documentaries, workshops, and moreǃ And don't miss Ecological Soup, a satellite exhibit (presented at the year-round location of Currents 826 on Canyon Road), exploring the intricate connections between human and non-human species.
66th SANTA FE OPERA Season
June 30–August 26, 2023
No other opera house in the world can offer the mixture of world-class performers and breathtaking scenery as the Santa Fe Opera. In its 66th year, the 2023 season features five operas: Tosca, The Flying Dutchman, Pelléas et Mélisande, Rusalka, and Orfeo. Plan ahead and participate in the pre-opera tailgating parties, where traditional picnic accoutrement are traded in for the elevated revelry of silver platters, candlesticks, and charcuterie.
SANTA FE INTERNATIONAL FOLK ART MARKET
July 6–9, 2023
The International Folk Art Market draws master artists from 50 countries around globe to the world’s largest international folk art gathering. And in 2023, this rich and bustling event will inhabit the multi-acre Railyard Park. Purchase one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces ranging from pottery and rugs to clothing, jewelry, and so much more. Linger for the music, the food, and all of the wonderful people you'll meet. Purchase your tickets today!
SANTA FE ART WEEK
July 7–16, 2023
The City Different is one of the most artistic spots in the world, and during Santa Fe Art Week, enjoy more than 100 art experiences, including artist demonstrations, book signings, children’s events, live music, studio tours, and workshops. And don’t miss our neighborhood gallery strolls—all 5–7 pm—a great way to enjoy the art of our more than 250 galleries and simultaneously socialize!
- Tuesday, July 11, Downtown Art District
- Wednesday, July 12, Baca St. Art District
- Thursday, July 13, Canyon Road District
- Friday, July 14, Railyard Art District
HORIZONS: WEAVING BETWEEN THE LINES WITH DINÉ TEXTILES
July 16, 2023–July 16, 2024
At the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, explore the connections between American Southwest weaving and photography. Horizons examines each media as a way of seeing and knowing Dinétah, the Navajo homeland.
DESERT CHORALE SUMMER FESTIVAL
July 16–August 5, 2023
Three rich and distinct choral programs make this festival one of the largest events of its kind in the country. Choose from The Tudors and the Medici for a dose of Renaissance Europe, The American Immigrant Experience for stories from the perspective of various newcomers, and, finally, The Ecstasies Above, featuring two virtuostic works for strings and vocals. You can't go wrong with one or all!
50th SANTA FE CHAMBER FESTIVAL
July 16–August 21, 2023
Celebrating 50 years, Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival presents 100 artists (15 of whom make their Festival debut!) in more than 40 concerts, held at St. Francis Auditorium at the New Mexico Museum of Art and the Lensic Performing Arts Center. In addition to works by Handel, Vivaldi, and Schubert, you'll have the opportunity to hear new works by living composers, too. Get your tickets today!
71st TRADITIONAL SPANISH MARKET
July 28–30, 2023
One of the summer’s most anticipated events for locals and visitors alike, Traditional Spanish Market celebrates its 71st year. Taking place on the Plaza, the market presents the work of more than 200 Hispanic artists, defined by 19 different categories that represent the Hispanic “artistic traditions of New Mexico and southern Colorado through historic, modern, and contemporary periods,” including colcha embroidery, hide painting, painted bultos, straw applique, and more. Live music, demonstrations, and authentic foods round out this celebratory weekend.
101st SANTA FE INDIAN MARKET
August 19–20, 2023
Celebrating its 101st year, the Santa Fe Indian Market continues to deliver on its reputation as the largest and most prestigious juried Native arts show in the world. More than 1,000 artists representing more than 200 tribes come together on the historic Santa Fe Plaza to display their traditionally handcrafted art. It's the 10th anniversary of the ever-popular and important Indigenous Fashion Show with a great lineup of 10 couture artists who are creating new collections to debut on SWAIA's runway, as well as lots of additional ways to celebrate Indigenous art throughout the weekend. And save some of your budget for Free Indian Market, showcasing more than 600 artists on the green and shady Federal Courthouse Park, where they say, "Helping the Elders and their families is our purpose."
99th ANNUAL BURNING OF ZOZOBRA
September 1, 2023
This one-of-a-kind cultural experience is believed to cleanse the city of sad thoughts and gloom of the past year. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to write down their worries and woes, which are then stuffed into a 50-foot tall marionette. In a theatrical and choreographed show, Zozobra is set on fire amid fireworks and the cheers of the crowd. This is the last year of the Decades Project, a countdown to Zozo's 100th, so they'll celebrate with a sweet tribute to the music and fashion of the 2000s and 2010s. This event also traditionally marks the kickoff to the Fiestas de Santa Fe.
Get a taste of The City Different! Order your Official Santa Fe Visitors Guide now or browse our deals and specials to help you plan your next trip to Santa Fe.
