Guide to Santa Fe’s Famous Art Markets
If you’re an art aficionado, then Santa Fe has a wealth of options for you, from hole in the wall galleries to bustling outdoor events. While Santa Fe is a great town for art all year round, it particularly shines in the summer months, when several world-renowned art markets take place during the course of July and August. Drawing huge crowds of locals and tourists alike, these markets are famed for their wide variety and authentic flair.
Folk Art Market
The International Folk Art Market takes place in the middle of July, and features a global selection of artists and artisans in an outdoor art market located on Museum Hill. The market places a special emphasis on folk art created using traditional methods by indigenous people from all over the world, whose traditions and livelihoods are often increasingly threatened by globalization and marginalization. Showcasing over 150 artists from over 60 different countries, the market represents a vast selection of folk art from all over the globe.
If you’re looking for a premium experience, the market hosts an exclusive Friday night opening party featuring food, music, and first pick of the array of art on offer. On Saturday, the market is open to the public, with a $20 admission fee and an $85 early bird special from 7:30-10:00. The Sunday market focuses on communities and families, and has a lower admission cost at $15 per person. If you’re in Santa Fe in July, the Folk Art Market is a one-of-a-kind experience for collectors and novices alike.
2019 Dates: July 12-14
Location: Museum Hill
Cost: $15+
Spanish Market
The Spanish Market is held at the end of July each year, and features artists from New Mexico and Colorado. Located on the historic Plaza in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, this market celebrates new and old alike, seamlessly interweaving traditional craftsmanship with more modern interpretations inspired by Spanish Colonial artistic traditions and history. Each of the featured adult artists are selected by a jury, while Youth Market artists are actively mentored by adult artists in their chosen discipline.
The week leading up to the Spanish Market, dubbed ¡Viva la Cultura!, features a variety of lectures, studio tours, and talks by artists. During the weekend of Spanish Market itself, local vendors, food trucks, live music, and other attractions surround the Plaza. Whether you’re looking to expand your art collection or are simply on the hunt for a unique experience, Spanish Market has something to offer everyone!
2019 Dates: July 27-28
Location: Santa Fe Plaza
Cost: free
Indian Market
The Santa Fe Indian Market takes place each year in August, and features native artists and artisans from all over the United States and Canada, with over 200 federally recognized tribes participating. The Indian Market supports indigenous artists and tribes directly, and draws hundreds of thousands of people from around the world. The market is also a great opportunity to interact with artists directly and to learn more about native traditions and cultures.
Along with a wide variety of art for sale, the Indian Market also features live music, food, performances, and more. Whether you come for the art, for the atmosphere, or for the world-famous fry bread, if you’re in Santa Fe in August, it’s an event for all ages that you won’t want to miss!
2019 Dates: August 17-18
Location: Santa Fe Plaza
Cost: free
Art Santa Fe
If you’re in the mood for contemporary art, Art Santa Fe takes place each year in July, and showcases modern art by both local and international artists. The event draws on Santa Fe’s rich history as an artistic mecca, while also celebrating contemporary art from around the world. Art Santa Fe is carefully curated, and includes live entertainment and special programming.
In addition to their traditional weekend exhibition, Art Santa Fe is also organizing a new art event taking place for the first time this year. Santa Fe Art Week will run from July 12-21, and will feature art-related events and exhibitions throughout the city, including demonstrations, classes, gallery shows, and more. The event is a great way to learn more about the art scene in Santa Fe, explore different galleries and artists, and even pick up a piece or two for your art collection!
2019 Dates: July 18-21
Location: Santa Fe Convention Center
Cost: $10+
Santa Fe Artists Market
If you’re not in town for any of the big summer festivals, Santa Fe still has a lot to offer on a weekly basis. Each Saturday, the Santa Fe Railyard is filled with artists and artisans selling their work at the Santa Fe Artists Market, which runs alongside the Santa Fe Farmers Market. If you’re in the mood for a morning stroll, some fresh produce, and some fabulous art, this is the event for you!
The Artists Market runs every Saturday 8am-2pm from March through December. They also organize pop-up shows three weekends a year in May, September, and October that take place in Cathedral Park, just a block off the historic Plaza. The market champions local artists and craftsmen working in a variety of media, including painting, jewelry, sculpture, ceramics, and fiber. It’s a great opportunity to explore the local art scene, get some fresh air, and discover hidden gems by talented Santa Fe artists!
Date: Saturdays March through December
Location: Santa Fe Railyard
Cost: free
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From the beautiful weather to the bustling markets and festivals, summer in Santa Fe has a little something for everyone. The City Different packs a big punch for its small size, with an art scene second only to New York City! Our world-class art exhibits, events, and famous markets draw visitors from all over the globe, and are must-see attractions if you find yourself visiting in July or August. From traditional to modern, world-famous to up and coming, the Santa Fe art scene spans cultures, mediums, and artistic approaches to create a style that’s all its own. Whether you come specifically for the markets, or find yourself here by chance, you owe it to yourself to stop by and experience a little of the magic!
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