For more than 300 years, every September, the Santa Fe Fiesta Council proudly invites people from all backgrounds to celebrate historic Santa Fe culture with events that highlight the talents of Northern New Mexico cultura! Enjoy the arts and crafts booths along with music, dancing, entertainment and food booths that line the historic Santa Fe Plaza during the Fiesta Labor Day weekend. The cry of ¡Viva la Fiesta! will ring through the streets as the 311th Annual Fiesta de Santa Fe takes over the historic Santa Fe Plaza, September 2 – 10, 2023.
Over the years, the Fiesta has grown to encompass other traditions, including the Burning of Zozobra on the first Friday of the month, which unofficially kicks off the celebratory events for many locals. On Labor Day weekend, the Fiesta Fine Arts and Crafts Market transforms Santa Fe Plaza and surrounding streets into a distinctive open-air arts and crafts market, featuring one-of-a-kind treasures by native craftspeople, many of whom have been practicing their art for generations. Here you will find unique hand-fashioned jewelry, pottery, clothing, leather, wood, hand-blown glass, paintings, photography and so much more.
Saturday night, from 7:30 – 10 p.m., the Santa Fe Opera sets the stage for the annual Mariachi Extravaganza de Santa Fe, a passionate musical experience of traditional, contemporary and classical excellence. The piñon-studded hills surrounding the open-air venue give way to extraordinary sunsets, elevating the joyous sounds of internationally renowned, award-winning musicians and dancers into a riot of colorful expression. If you have never experienced Mariachi, this is the introductory event that could shape your view of celebratory Mexican culture. To find out more, call 1-800-280-4654, or 505-986-5900.
On Friday, September 9, beginning at 6 a.m., the Rev. Timothy A. Martinez officially announces the beginning of the Fiesta, with the Pregón de La Fiesta. It is here that the faithful of Santa Fe gather to complete the promise made by Governor Don Diego de Vargas in September of 1692, when he declared that every year at this time, the city would celebrate with Vespers, Masses, a Sermon and a procession through the Plaza to thank La Conquistadora for her intercession in peacefully taking back the city in 1692. The Mayor of Santa Fe officially issues the formal proclamation declaring the start of the festivities.
The three days following are a traditional celebration of culture and custom. The Santa Fe Plaza once again becomes an open-air market where treasures abound and time-honored artistry is in full bloom. You’ll also want to bring your appetite, because the smells of chicharróns, green chile, fried bread and more fill the air, and such delights as corn on the cob, candy apples, biscochitos, pan dulce and aguas frescas are available for purchase. The Summer Music Scene is incorporated into the weekend, with everything from historic dances by Pueblo and Aztec dancers, Folklorico and Matachine dancers, traditional New Mexico and Mariachi music, and so much more.
There is so much to experience at this unique, centuries old event. A must-attend for locals and visitors alike. For more information, visit the website, or call 505-470-6325.
This article was posted by Jesse Williams
