Summer in The City Different
Despite monsoon rains and withering heat, visitors from around the world flock to Santa Fe in July and August. Two of the main attractions that bring thousands of visitors to “The City Different” are the Santa Fe Opera Festival and Indian Market.
The Santa Fe Opera and its internationally recognized summer Festival is a cornerstone of Santa Fe's cultural landscape, inviting audiences to participate in the world of opera. A press release from the Santa Fe Opera reports that “The Santa Fe Opera annually draws 85,000 people from New Mexico and around the globe. Nestled atop a mountain vista in northern New Mexico, the company’s iconic Crosby Theatre is open on three sides, allowing visitors to enjoy performances complemented by the elements. Since 1957, the company has presented over 2,000 performances of 179 operas by ninety-one composers spanning five centuries of opera, creating a legacy of 45 American premieres and eighteen world premieres”.
The operas of the 2023 season promise to be extraordinary. From Puccini’s classic, Tosca, to Monteverdi’s Orfeo, the selection of operas is an homage to artistic excellence and diversity. Against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the open-air theater adds a touch of magic to every production, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.
Attending the Santa Fe Opera Summer Festival goes beyond the enchanting performances and sensory ambience. The opera house offers a range of amenities, including on-site dining and the option to tailgate, pre-opera lectures, tours, and a gift shop.
In August, the streets of Santa Fe come alive with vibrant colors and rich cultural heritage during Indian Market, which began in 1922. As one of the largest and most prestigious Native American art markets in the world, Indian Market showcases the works of hundreds of Native American artists, ranging from traditional pottery and jewelry to contemporary paintings and sculptures. Visitors can witness live demonstrations, interact with artists, and immerse themselves in the diverse cultures of the Indigenous peoples of North America. Indian Market brings 150,000 people from all over the world to Santa Fe to experience juried competitions and exhibits in galleries across the city. Downtown streets are cordoned off so individual vendors can sell their wares. The size of the marketplace is overwhelming.
Attending the Santa Fe Opera and exploring Indian Market offers a unique way to experience first-hand the city's artistic and cultural tapestry. The festivities provide visitors with an opportunity to engage with local artists, artisans, and musicians, and to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse traditions that make Santa Fe a cultural hub. If you are entertaining visitors this summer, Go-New Mexico is an excellent resource for determining what to do and where to eat.
This summer feels more relaxed because COVID does not dominate the narrative of our lives and our city. I personally plan to rediscover the joy that abounds in Santa Fe through its many festivals and markets. Of course, I also plan to wear sunscreen and a hat, carry an umbrella and water, wear comfortable shoes, and try to stick to a budget. Wish me luck!
See you in September,
Bernadette