11 Compelling Reasons to Visit Santa Fe in July: Festivals, Art, and Music
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Santa Fe, proudly known as "The City Different," bursts with vibrant events every July. Our rich cultural scene features world-class festivals, music performances, and markets. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning fan, plan your summer getaway with these 11 must-see highlights. Note: Dates reference 2017; many events recur annually—check official sites for current schedules.
Santa Fe Wine Festival
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New Mexico boasts the nation's oldest wine-growing region, with Santa Fe home to esteemed vineyards and wineries. The Santa Fe Wine Festival, now 23 years strong and "old enough to drink," occurred July 1-2, 2017, at Rancho de las Golondrinas. Savor terroir-driven tastings and expert-led sniffing sessions.
Santa Fe Bandstand
Santa Fe Bandstand is a free annual summer-long festival on the Plaza. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe Bandstand)
From July 5 through August 26, 2017, the Santa Fe Bandstand delivered over 60 free performances by local, regional, and national acts on the historic Santa Fe Plaza. All genres, nightly entertainment, and open dancing—bring your shoes!
ART Santa Fe
ART Santa Fe is a juried contemporary art show in the heart of Santa Fe. (Photo courtesy of ART Santa Fe)
Santa Fe's art scene transcends Western motifs, embracing cutting-edge contemporary works. The 17th edition of ART Santa Fe ran July 13-16, 2017, showcasing bold, original international art.
Santa Fe International Folk Art Market
The Santa Fe International Folk Art Market celebrates living folk art from around the world. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe International Folk Art Market)
July 14-16, 2017, marked the most diverse Santa Fe International Folk Art Market yet, featuring 160 master artists from 53 countries. Discover handmade treasures from tradition-bearers and innovative creators at all price points.
HIPICO Santa Fe
HIPICO is a top equestrian horse show center in the Southwest. (Photo courtesy of HIPICO)
Experience premier hunter/jumper competitions with Southwestern flair at HIPICO Santa Fe. Enjoy live music, gourmet food, craft beer, and shopping during Santa Fe Welcome Week (July 19-23) and Sonrisa Week (July 26-30), all under sunny skies.
Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival
The Flux Quartet is dedicated to an uncompromising repertoire at the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival. (Photo courtesy of The Flux Quartet)
In its 45th season, the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival (July 16–August 21, 2017) featured masterpieces by Bach, Dvorak, Mendelssohn, and more in near-nightly concerts—a cornerstone of Santa Fe's classical heritage.
Santa Fe Desert Chorale
The Santa Fe Desert Chorale is one of the longest continually performing professional music organizations in New Mexico. (Photo courtesy of The Santa Fe Desert Chorale)
The Santa Fe Desert Chorale's 2017 Summer Festival (July 19–August 13) offered four programs: Liberté, Justice, The Hope of Loving, and Music from a Secret Chapel. Don't miss their Winter Festival, "Home for the Holidays" (December 16-23).
Music on the Hill
Music on the Hill is a free concert series featuring blues, classic rock, world music, and jazz. (Photo courtesy of Music on the Hill)
Free Wednesday evenings (6-8 p.m., June 14–July 26, 2017, no July 6) at St. John’s College brought blues, soul, folk, and jazz via Music on the Hill. Pack a picnic, blanket, or chairs for lawn seating.
Viva México!
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Celebrate Mexican música, arte, and más at the ¡Viva México! festival (July 22-23, 2017), highlighting culture, cuisine, and crafts from our vibrant neighbor.
Traditional Spanish Market
A popular event for residents and visitors alike, the Spanish Market features handmade art from hundreds of local Hispanic artists. (Photo courtesy Daniel Quat)
Santa Fe hosts the nation's premier showcase of Spanish Colonial art at the Traditional Spanish Market (July 29-30, 2017). Over 250 artisans displayed woodcarving, tinwork, retablos, pottery, jewelry, and more on the Plaza.
Contemporary Hispanic Market
The Contemporary Hispanic Market showcases original work and individual expression. (Photo courtesy of Contemporary Hispanic Market)
Complementing the Traditional Market, the Contemporary Hispanic Market (July 29-30, 2017) highlighted innovative painting, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, and beyond.
Ready for a Santa Fe July adventure? Request your free Santa Fe Travel Guide and explore our Deals and Specials.
