Santa Fe Events | Sept. 2024

September in Santa Fe is the perfect time to soak up the city’s rich culture, art, and history. With the summer heat cooling down, Santa Fe bursts into life with a mix of events that highlight its Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo roots. Whether you’re into world-class art fairs or traditional fiestas, there’s plenty to check out. In this guide, we will help you find the best things happening in Santa Fe this September. 

The Fiesta de Santa Fe is a cherished tradition that has been celebrated for over 300 years, and this year’s event promises to be as vibrant as ever. From August 30 to September 8, the historic Santa Fe Plaza will come alive with arts and crafts, music, dancing, and food, offering a true taste of Northern New Mexico culture. 

The festivities kick off with the Burning of Zozobra on the first Friday (August 30), a local favorite that sets the tone for the week. The weekend features the Fiesta Fine Arts and Crafts Market, where you can explore unique handmade treasures, and the Mariachi Extravaganza de Santa Fe, a spectacular evening of music and dance at the Santa Fe Opera. The celebration continues with the traditional Pregón de La Fiesta on September 8, followed by three days of cultural performances, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere in the Plaza.  

The New Mexico State Fair, taking place from September 5 to 15 in Albuquerque, is a must-visit event that has been bringing joy to families since 1938. This beloved fair offers a true taste of rural life, with livestock competitions, agricultural displays, and a variety of arts & crafts. It’s the largest event in the state, drawing over 500,000 visitors each year and earning a spot among the top fairs in the nation for its affordability and fun-filled atmosphere. 

One of the main attractions is the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association events, where some of the most skilled cowboys and cowgirls showcase their talents in bull riding, bareback riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and more. The fair also features the Indian and Spanish villages, where you can browse handmade crafts, gifts, and clothing, while enjoying cultural performances. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the endless food options, especially the fried delights that are a staple of fair cuisine. 

Beyond the rodeo and cultural exhibits, the fair offers a wide range of entertainment, including live concerts, carnival rides, games, car shows, and a petting zoo. Daily themes keep the excitement fresh, with new activities and learning opportunities each day. Whether you’re there to enjoy the rodeo, explore the arts & crafts, or simply indulge in some tasty fair food, the New Mexico State Fair has something for everyone. 

Step into the past at the Santa Fe Renaissance Faire on September 14-15, where the grounds of El Rancho de las Golondrinas transform into the vibrant Kingdom of Golondrinas. This family-friendly event is New Mexico’s premier Renaissance Faire, offering a blend of medieval magic, delicious food, and unique arts and crafts. It’s like stepping into a budget-friendly medieval theme park, complete with games, fortune tellers, comedy shows, and artisans showcasing their wares. 

One of the main attractions of the Faire is the incredible costumes. Whether you’re admiring the period-perfect outfits of the cast members or the creative DIY ensembles of visitors, the colorful pageantry is a sight to behold. The excitement continues with performances on the Queen’s Stage and The King’s Stage, featuring top entertainers in the Renaissance circuit. Explore the Village streets, Buccaneer Bay Pirate Camp, Golondrinas Tavern, and the Field of Champions for non-stop adventure. 

For those interested in history, the History Corner offers fascinating insights into the period. You might catch a show by Clan Tynker, witness a real joust by the Order of Epona, or embark on a knight’s quest to meet Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand. Children will be delighted by the Fairy Village, the high-swinging Spanish Galleon, and even a chance to meet a unicorn. With tickets supporting educational programs at El Rancho de las Golondrinas and the Santa Fe School for the Arts & Sciences, the Santa Fe Renaissance Faire is an enchanting event for the whole family. 

Celebrate over 30 years of culinary excellence at the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta, happening from September 25 to 29. This annual event is a highlight on Santa Fe’s calendar, showcasing the city’s rich culinary scene through a series of events at various venues across town. Featuring 90 wineries and 75 of Santa Fe’s top restaurants, the fiesta offers a week of indulgence with cooking demonstrations, seminars, winery luncheons, and dinners that highlight the art of food and wine pairing. 

The Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta is more than just a wine festival; it’s an opportunity to refine your palate and deepen your appreciation for local wines. Attend wine seminars to learn about different varietals and vintages or explore wine and cheese pairings. The event includes a range of activities from large-scale tastings to intimate dinners, where chefs and sommeliers create perfect pairings of gourmet dishes and exceptional wines.  

September 2024 is shaping up to be an unforgettable month in Santa Fe. From the rich cultural traditions celebrated at the Fiesta de Santa Fe to the mouthwatering flavors at the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these events offer a unique chance to dive deep into the vibrant heritage and culinary artistry of this enchanting city. Don’t miss out on the fun, flavor, and festivities that make Santa Fe a remarkable destination this fall. Mark your calendar, plan your visit, check the event details on the Santa Fe website, and join in the celebration of everything that makes Santa Fe truly special. 

Tour with us today and fill out an application to be entered to win two tickets to the Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta!