Santa Fe's architecture and cultural scene reflects its history as a melting pot for Hispanic, Anglo and Native American peoples. The city, about 60 miles north of Albuquerque in the central region of New Mexico, also celebrates its folk, contemporary and upscale art scenes with several festivals throughout the year. Whether you're interested in browsing through works of international artisans, picking out a recycled craft or choosing a painting by a well-known contemporary artist, you'll probably find it at one of Santa Fe's art festivals.
International Folk Art Market
- Held for two days in July on Santa Fe's Museum Hill, the International Folk Art Market sells the wares of more than 150 folk artists who have traveled to Santa Fe from more than 50 countries. Prominently featuring the work of artists from developing countries throughout various continents, the festival gives artists more than 90 percent of festival sales and also features artist demonstrations, ethnic food and performances. Because of its efforts, the market contributed to Santa Fe being named one of UNESCO's Cities of Folk Art.
Santa Fe Reporter Arts Festival
- Taking place for 12 days in late September, the Santa Fe Reporter Arts Festival includes art, music, theater, film, dance and other cultural performances held at several venues throughout Santa Fe. Featuring innovative visual artists from around the city, the art portion of the festival includes exhibitions of painting, sculpture, photographs and posters, among other mediums. You can also attend the day-long After Hours Alliance Fest, a festival within the festival, that features more than 50 visual artists selling their creations.
Recycle Santa Fe Art Festival
- Held for three days in November, the Recycle Santa Fe Art Festival takes place at the downtown Santa Fe Community Convention Center. The festival includes an art market that sells more than 85 artisans' wares constructed with 75 percent recycled materials and features clocks, furniture, jewelry and picture frames. The festival also holds the Trash Fashion & Costume Contest, which awards prizes for the most fashionable outfit made from garbage, and sets up a "Make and Take" workshop in which festival-goers can use provided, recycled materials to make their own projects.
Art Santa Fe
- Art Santa Fe, held for four days in July at the Santa Fe Convention Center, aims to bring upscale, contemporary art, installations and the works of emerging artists to a single festival. Attracting tourists and buyers from around the world, the festival also offers lectures, a "How Things Are Made" exhibit that lets visitors create their own art and an opening-night gala. Held each day from mid-morning to early evening, you can purchase day passes or a VIP pass that gets you festival admission for the four days and a gala ticket.
