Santa Fe, New Mexico, bursts with cultural vibrancy and artistic flair in May 2025, offering a diverse lineup of events that celebrate music, art, literature, outdoor adventures, and community spirit. From mariachi concerts to literary festivals, there’s something for everyone in this historic city. Here’s your guide to the top events in Santa Fe this May.
May 1: Mariachi Concierto de Primavera
Kick off the month with the lively Mariachi Concierto de Primavera hosted by The Santa Fe Symphony’s Youth Program. This family-friendly event at 5:30 PM features young musicians from Mariachi Estrella, Mariachi Citlali, and Pasitos Clase de Mariachi, showcasing their talent in a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture. Arrive early at 4:30 PM for crafts and games, perfect for all ages.
May 1: Picturesque Summer at Obscura Gallery
Art enthusiasts will love Picturesque Summer, a group exhibition at Obscura Gallery featuring four female photographers: Susan Burnstine, Rania Matar, Aline Smithson, and Jennifer Spelman. Each artist brings a unique perspective, from dreamlike imagery to vibrant Cuban scenes. The show runs through the month, capturing the essence of summer through innovative photographic techniques.
Every Sunday & Thursday: Ghost Tour: The Dark Side of Santa Fe
Dive into Santa Fe’s spooky side with a Ghost Tour led by a Travel Channel guide. Hear chilling tales of haunted houses and lingering spirits, with no gimmicks—just great storytelling. Tours run at 5:30 PM in winter and 7:30 PM in summer, starting at $35 per person. A minimum of $100 applies, making it ideal for groups.
Daily Starting May 1: Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt
Explore Santa Fe’s historic Plaza with a fun Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt. Your local host provides 18 riddles and clues for a 1.5- to 2-hour adventure. Perfect for families or groups, this customizable experience requires a fully charged phone and a sense of curiosity. Request your preferred start time for a personalized outing.
Multiple Dates: Wheel-Throwing Pottery Experience
Get hands-on with a Wheel-Throwing Pottery Experience, a two-hour session led by local Santa Fe artists. Ideal for beginners and travelers, you’ll learn to craft pottery on the wheel and receive $15 off a piece from the gallery. Sessions are offered on various dates, blending creativity with a taste of Santa Fe’s artistic heritage.
May 2: City of Santa Fe Leisure Bike Ride Series
Cycle through Santa Fe’s stunning landscapes with the Leisure Bike Ride Series. These 90-minute instructor-led rides are free for members of Genoveva Chavez Community Center, Ft. Marcy, and Salvador Perez, or $5 for others (including bike and helmet rental). Reserve your spot 24 hours in advance for a refreshing outdoor experience.
May 2: Downtown First Friday Art Walk
Discover why Santa Fe is a global art hub during the Downtown First Friday Art Walk. Stroll through galleries along Palace Avenue and the historic museum district, showcasing world-class works. This free event is a must for art lovers looking to immerse themselves in Santa Fe’s creative scene.
May 2: Ode To The Desert at Gallery Wild
Ode To The Desert at Gallery Wild celebrates the Southwest’s rugged beauty through works by artists Silas Thompson, Rocky Hawkins, Patricia A. Griffin, and Jared Sanders. This group show captures the desert’s vivid colors and cultural richness, offering a visual journey through the region’s landscapes. A perfect stop for those enchanted by the Southwest’s allure.
May 3: High Road Community Party at el Rey Court
Join the free High Road community party at el Rey Court from 12-8 PM. Enjoy live music from Ramsay Midwood and others, local vendors, food trucks, poolside yoga, and tarot readings. Stay for the afterparty at La Reina bar with DJ Spoolius. This family-friendly event is a lively way to soak up Santa Fe’s community spirit.
Every Saturday: Santa Fe Artists Market
Browse the Santa Fe Artists Market in the Railyard Arts District every Saturday. Now in its 16th season, this juried market features local artists showcasing pottery, jewelry, paintings, and more. Located at the West Casitas near the Water Tower, it’s a treasure trove of handmade crafts and fine art.
Multiple Dates: Sky Railway Train Rides
Hop aboard the Sky Railway for themed train rides Thursday through Sunday. Options include the Wine Train, featuring local New Mexico wines and charcuterie, or the Santa Fe Scenic with champagne and Native American dance performances. Departing from the Santa Fe Depot, these rides offer a unique way to experience the region’s beauty.
Every Sunday: Art & Eats
Experience Santa Fe’s artistic soul with Art & Eats, a intimate tour of a Northern New Mexico homestead. Hosts Warren and his wife, both artists, share their home, studios, and stories over coffee or tea. Tour Warren’s studio, admire mesa views, and enjoy a homemade meal with local ingredients. This heartfelt experience feels like visiting old friends.
May 4: SODA at Santa Fe Jewish Film Festival
The Santa Fe Jewish Film Festival presents SODA, a moving love story set in 1954 Israel. Exploring themes of survival and love among Holocaust survivors, this film, nominated for three Israeli Academy Awards, is based on director Erez Tadmor’s grandfather’s story. Catch this powerful screening with unreserved seating.
May 4: Origami in the Garden 2025 Grand Opening
Celebrate the grand opening of Origami in the Garden 2025, featuring the 24-foot Master Peace sculpture of 500 cranes. This exhibition, inspired by Sadako Sasaki’s story, blends art and hope in a stunning outdoor setting. The new FLORIGAMI exhibit adds floral-inspired works, making it a must-see for art and nature lovers.
May 8-10: Vista Grande Public Library Spring Book Sale
Bookworms will flock to the VistaGrande Public Library Spring Book Sale. Shop thousands of books, CDs, DVDs, and more, with prices from $1-$5. Thursday’s Early Bird Entry ($25) offers first dibs, while Saturday’s $10-a-Bag sale is a steal. Held at 14 Avenida Torreon, this sale supports the library’s community programs.
May 10: Green Chile Workshop Cooking Class
Spice up your culinary skills with a Green Chile Workshop Cooking Class. Learn to make corn tortillas, green chile sauce, roasted tomatillo sauce, and more in this hands-on session. Perfect for foodies, this workshop dives deep into New Mexico’s iconic flavors.
May 11: Mother’s Day Brunch at Bishop’s Lodge
Treat the special women in your life to a Mother’s Day Brunch at SkyFire in Bishop’s Lodge. Savor a three-course prix-fixe menu infused with Northern New Mexico flavors, set in an elegant ambiance with piñon and cedar aromas. A perfect way to celebrate Mom.
May 16-18: Santa Fe International Literary Festival
The Santa Fe International Literary Festival brings world-renowned authors and readers together for three days of big-stage talks, intimate discussions, and curated excursions. Held at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center, this event explores politics, justice, and more, set against Santa Fe’s rich cultural backdrop.
May 17: NAMIWalks Santa Fe
Join NAMIWalks Santa Fe to support mental health awareness. This community walk fosters unity and advocacy, creating a safe space for all participants. Be part of a movement for “Mental Health for All” and make a difference in the lives of those facing mental health challenges.
May 17-18: Santa Fe Century
Cyclists of all levels will love the Santa Fe Century, a scenic ride through the Ortiz Mountains and Galisteo Basin, with routes from 20 to 106 miles. On Saturday, the Gravelón offers 25- or 55-mile gravel tours on Rowe Mesa. Register now for an unforgettable biking adventure.
May 18: The Santa Fe Symphony: Faust
Close out the month with The Santa Fe Symphony’s performance of Berlioz’s La Damnation de Faust, conducted by Maestro Guillermo Figueroa. This dramatic legend, featuring the full orchestra, chorus, and four soloists, is a grand season finale. A free pre-concert talk at 3 PM adds context to this epic performance.
May 24: Arts & Crafts Fairs in Cathedral Park
Shop unique creations at the Arts & Crafts Fairs in Cathedral Park, hosted by the Northern New Mexico Fine Arts and Crafts Guild. Up to 30 local artisans showcase jewelry, pottery, paintings, and more from 10 AM to 5 PM. A high-quality, juried event perfect for finding one-of-a-kind treasures.
May 30: Railyard Arts District Last Friday Art Walk
End May with the Railyard Arts District Last Friday Art Walk from 5-7 PM. Explore ten galleries, including Blue Rain Gallery and SITE Santa Fe, showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art in warehouse-style spaces. This free event is a highlight for art aficionados.
Santa Fe in May 2025 is a vibrant blend of culture, creativity, and community. Whether you’re drawn to art, music, outdoor adventures, or culinary experiences, this month’s events offer something unforgettable. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the magic of Santa Fe!