Santa Fe Indian Market

I have always made it a point to be in Santa Fe in August during Indian Market. In fact most years we have friends join us on the trip. Indian Market truly is a premier event for Santa Fe. There are dozens of Native American cultural events that take place during Indian Market. Art of course means painting, drawing, weaving, clothes, jewelry, pottery and much more. All of these are on display at Indian Market and I know you will enjoy the event immensely.You'll also see many Native American booksellers with one of a kind items.

Indian Market started a long time ago as a partnership between local pueblos and community leaders. It has been held in Santa Fe every year since 1922. Currently half of the board of directors of the SWAIA ( Southwestern Association for Indian Arts) are Native Americans and most are participating Indian Market artists. The artists are Native/Indigenous people from over 100 federally recognized tribes and First Nations tribes from Canada. Some artists have participated for over 60 years and often times you'll find several generations sitting in the same booth. Their artwork is actually a big part of their lives and it's a unique way of communication that lasts a lifetime.

Indian Market Week precedes the weekend Indian Market exhibition. During the week there are previews and awards bestowed with about $100,000 in prize money given out.There are several functions that are tied into Indian Market such as the Friday night press reception, the best of show announcement, a sneak preview of award winning art and a silent auction. I would also look into the Indian market auction gala usually taking place at the La Fonda Hotel on the plaza. SWAIA also bestows lifetime achievement awards during the weekend event. Another unforgettable Indian Market event is the clothing contest which is held on Sunday morning from 9A-Noon. Children and adults model contemporary and traditional Native clothing. Bring your camera because this is the photographed event of the week. Entertainment is also presented on the Plaza Stage from 1-4P during the weekend.

Indian Market has grown to the degree that Native Americans throughout the United States are represented as exhibitors. It is probably the largest single event in this country for displaying Native American art. Many of the participating artists have attended the Institute for American Indian Arts as well as other universities.

The dates for this years Indian Market in Santa Fe is August 15-21.

Of course there are many more things to do in August in Santa Fe while attending Indian Market. One is the Santa Fe Opera which also draws people each year from around the country. Don't forget to also visit the many galleries in Santa Fe including those on the famous Canyon Road. There's nothing like the collection of art in Santa Fe. If you're looking for great restaurants you'll also find these in Santa Fe and there are very good restaurants available to fit any type travel budget.

The event is known throughout the world and you'll no doubt see people in attendance from all over the world. Try to book your hotel early because it's my understanding that many people book rooms a year in advance.