Image source: Santa Fe Fiesta (Facebook page)
Santa Fe is a very historical city, with a legacy that stretches back long before the United States existed. One defining annual event that has been held for centuries in the city is the Fiestas de Santa Fe, or the Santa Fe Fiesta.
The first Santa Fe Fiesta occurred in 1712 to celebrate the city’s reconquest by the Spanish general Don Diego de Vargas, who took the city from the Pueblos. Over the past 300 years, the festival has grown significantly to become one of the biggest events in Santa Fe and New Mexico. It has been reimagined as a series of events taking place in early September that celebrate the rich history of New Mexico, Santa Fe, and the cultures that have defined them.
Image source: Santa Fe Fiesta (Facebook page)
This year’s Santa Fe Fiesta will have the same proud traditions as every other year. After the cancellation of the 2020 festival, this year’s fiesta marks an exciting return to normalcy. The festival begins on September 3rd and continues to the 11th, with events scattered throughout the duration. There will be something at this festival for everyone.
SUBSCRIBE TO THE HAVEN MAILING LIST
Curated homes, market intelligence and design stories — a few emails a month.
No spam. Unsubscribe any time.
The first major event of the fiesta kicks off with the arts and crafts market. This is a large market that features unique handcrafted works from local artisans. These creations range from pottery and clothing to jewelry and wood carvings, all created with a local flair. Santa Fe is famed as a hub for artists, and this market abounds with incredible hand-made works.
Image source: Santa Fe Fiesta (Facebook page)
The festival continues with the Pregon de la Fiesta on Fiesta Friday, which falls on September 9th this year. This historical tradition has been part of the festival for centuries. The mayor of Santa Fe will give a speech, which includes original lines from the first festival in 1712, at the Rosario Chapel. This will mark the formal beginning of the festival.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can visit the craft market and food market. There are an array of food booths present with delicious festival fare. The food ranges from traditional classics to innovative festival-style food, including green chile cheeseburgers, fried bread with honey, candy apples, and much more. There are tons of great eats to enjoy throughout the weekend, so make sure to come hungry.
Image source: Santa Fe Fiesta (Facebook page)
In addition to concerts every night on the Santa Fe Plaza, there are several other events to look forward to at the festival. There is the Pet Parade, known as the Desfile de Los Ninos. This parade features thousands of children in costumes, and all kids are welcome. Participation is free, and some lucky children will receive prizes. Also, the historical parade features a large procession of local figures, from sports teams and pageant queens to politicians. There are mariachi bands and floats as well. The Santa Fe Fiesta ends with a closing ceremony, mass, and candlelight procession.
Image source: Santa Fe Fiesta (Facebook page)
The Santa Fe Fiesta is one of the longest-running traditions in the country. It is a great celebration of the history and traditions of New Mexico, with top-notch food, art, concerts, parades, and community events. This year will mark yet another great iteration of this event.
Image source: Santa Fe Fiesta (Facebook page)
