Fourth of July may be our nation’s birthday celebration, but in Santa Fe, it isn’t just fireworks that come to mind, and that’s a good thing considering the fire danger in our area. A local tradition for 48 years now, the annual Pancakes On The Plaza brings together all the things we love about the holiday, art, music, and vintage cars, along with that most delicious of breakfast treats, to create an event like no other in downtown Santa Fe.
What is Pancakes on the Plaza?
One of Santa Fe’s most beloved annual events, Pancakes on the Plaza regularly draws an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 20,000 people to the historic Santa Fe Plaza, raising around $500,000 for area youth organizations and nonprofits.
Both locals and tourists alike enjoy a delicious, hot-off-the-griddle breakfast to start their Fourth of July celebration, then stick around for everything from silent auctions, kids contests, arts and crafts booths, to live music and vintage cars, all in the heart of downtown Santa Fe.
What to expect: pancake breakfast, vintage car show, live music, local art vendors, children’s activities, and classic Santa Fe Plaza atmosphere.
Event Details
Date: Friday, July 4, 2025
Time: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Historic Santa Fe Plaza, Santa Fe, New Mexico
Ticket Prices: $12 individual tickets; $40 family four pack, and $10 add-on tickets.
Pancakes on the Plaza 2025 Schedule of Events
Check out the 2025 Pancakes on the Plaza schedule below. The piping hot pancakes, vintage car show, arts and crafts vendors, silent auction, and children’s activities continue throughout the day alongside the scheduled performances.
6:30 a.m.: Day-of ticket sales begin.
7 a.m.: Breakfast service begins (pancakes served throughout the day).
8 p.m.: Opening Ceremony:
- Presentation of the Flags
- Pledge of Allegiance & National Anthem
- Bagpipe performance by Lisa Lashley
- Presentation of the Colors by City of Santa Fe Police Department
- National Anthem performed by Santa Fe Concert Band
8:15 a.m.: Santa Fe Concert Band performance.
9:30 a.m.: Rotary Kick-Off for 48th Annual Pancakes on the Plaza.
10 a.m.: Santa Fe Youth Symphony performance.
10:45 a.m.: Men’s Comerata performance.
11:30 a.m.: Santa Fe Vintage Car Club Presentation.
11:45 a.m.: 44th Army Band New Mexico National Guard Army Band performance.
12:15 p.m. The Turquoise Turners performance.
1 p.m. – Una Y Mas Cha Cha performance.
2 p.m.: The Lumbros performance.
5 p.m.: Event concludes.
Santa Fe Vintage Car Show
Though records suggest the very first specialty car show in Santa Fe took place more than 100 years ago, the Santa Fe Vintage Car Club has been carrying on the tradition since the 1980s. Here you will find not only vintage cars dating back as far as the 1920s, but “fancy” cars, as well.
Car Show Details
Location: Lincoln Avenue (lining the Santa Fe Plaza).
Slots: 120 designated parking spots for show vehicles.
Display Time: Cars must remain in place until 1 p.m.
Trophy Awards: 12:30 p.m. ceremony.
Vehicle Types: Vintage cars (1920s and up) and specialty vehicles.
Who Benefits from Pancakes on the Plaza?
Through the support of sponsors and volunteers, over the years the Rotary Club of Santa Fe’s Pancakes on the Plaza has benefited numerous local family-oriented nonprofits by awarding more than $750,000. In 2025, the Rotary Club of Santa Fe will award $200,000 in grants delivered over the next two years to vital Santa Fe nonprofits that make a significant difference:
- The Sky Center. Youth suicide prevention programs.
- Gerard’s House. Mobile grief counseling services.
- Communities in Schools. Supporting Santa Fe students in need.
- The Santa Fe Symphony. Bringing music education to more kids.
When you buy a ticket, you’re both enjoying a plate of fluffy goodness and helping local families thrive, students succeed, and our whole community shine a little brighter.
Volunteers Are Always Needed
As with most nonprofits, none of this could be accomplished without volunteers. They are truly the life blood of any nonprofit event. Pancakes on the Plaza is no exception, relying on over 300 volunteers alongside 80 Rotarians to make this Santa Fe tradition possible.
To find out more about volunteering opportunities, including duties, shifts, and check-in procedures, visit the volunteering page on the official website.
Get Your Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance online and at participating banks and credit unions throughout Santa Fe. Visit the official Pancakes on the Plaza website for more information or to become a sponsor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What time should I arrive?
A. The event runs from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM on July 4th. Arriving early ensures the best parking and shorter lines for pancakes!
Q. Where is parking available?
A. Street parking around the Santa Fe Plaza fills up quickly. Consider parking a few blocks away and walking, or arrive early for the best spots.
Q. Is the event family-friendly?
A. Absolutely! Pancakes on the Plaza features special children’s activities, contests, and entertainment suitable for all ages.
Q. What if it rains?
A. The event typically continues rain or shine, though severe weather may cause modifications. Check the official website for any weather-related updates.
Planning Your Visit to Santa Fe
Make the most of your Fourth of July weekend in Santa Fe by exploring other local attractions and events. The historic Santa Fe Plaza serves as the perfect starting point for celebrating Independence Day in Santa Fe.
This article was posted by Jesse Williams
