Summer Art Markets
Dear Friends,
For over a century, La Fonda has been the state’s central destination for summer adventure, and I couldn’t be prouder that we’ve once again been named #1 Best Lodging in the Santa Fe Reporter Readers’ Choice Awards. Earning this distinction for 14 years in a row is truly an honor. Our lobby, known as “Santa Fe’s Living Room,” is a magnet for history buffs and tour guides, The Bell Tower Rooftop Bar is a hot spot for sunset cocktails and breathtaking views, and of course, our guest rooms offer the perfect place to relax and immerse yourself in authentic hospitality.
At La Fonda this month, we’re gearing up for the many popular summer markets on the horizon. Plan now to participate in a few of my favorites: the International Folk Art Market, Traditional Spanish Market, and the Santa Fe Indian Market.
The International Folk Art Market (Jul 9-12) brings the world to Santa Fe’s Railyard District, located within walking distance to the hotel. This major destination art event features over 150 unique artists from across the globe and focuses on creating important economic opportunities for folk artists worldwide. Discover the legacy of Berber Carpets through representatives of the Cooperative Timnay of Morroco, rooted in the rich Amazigh culture of North Africa; fiber baskets and handmade paper by Maria Guadalupe Vargas Garcia, a Purépecha artisan from the Lake Pátzcuaro region of Michoacán whose work incorporates local materials harvested from the lake’s dynamic vegetation growing along its edge; learn about the deep meaning imbedded in the South African Zulu culture through Nomcebo Ntuli’s visually stunning, graphic stories told through telephone wire weavings that store traditionally brewed beer. I promise, you won’t go home without a few hand-made treasures! Purchase tickets here.
The Traditional Spanish Market (Jul 24-26) Since 1926, the Traditional Spanish Market has immersed participants in a cultural exploration that transcends time, celebrating the legacy of Spanish art traditions. Just steps from La Fonda, the market takes place on Santa Fe’s historic Plaza and features 18 diverse categories of arts, including: Colcha Embroidery (a local craft displayed prominently on drapery in each of our historic guest rooms), Copper Engraving, Furniture and Furnishings, Gesso Reliefs, Hide Paintings, Ironwork, Painted Bultos and more.
Santa Fe Indian Market (Aug 15-16) is the largest and most prestigious Indigenous art market in the world, and it takes place right at our doorstep! Exit our San Francisco Street entrance and you’ll immediately encounter many dear friends of La Fonda whose works adorn our hotel. Presented by the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA), this annual market has been a citywide tradition for over a century. The market is driven by direct artist sales, ensuring economic empowerment and creative autonomy for Native artists. It’s hands down one of my favorite markets to discover new work for La Fonda’s immense collection of original art. Don’t miss it!
Painting by artist Mateo Romero.
I can’t wait to see you at the markets!
Jenny
Jennifer Kimball
Ambassador and Board Chair Emerita
La Fonda on the Plaza
DETOURS AT LA FONDA
From HF Coors dinnerware, to Jan Barboglio home goods, the Shop has an eclectic mix of hand crafted goods. Explore and shop online!
PIÑON COURT BY LA FONDA
Join us on the patio at Piñon Court for a special menu showcasing fresh flavors, thoughtful ingredients, and the warm hospitality that defines Piñon Court. It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, savor a delicious meal, and experience one of Santa Fe’s favorite dining traditions. Don’t miss Happy Hour, 4-6pm daily.
CYNDE ROOF FINE ART
Cynde Roof
105 Old Santa Fe Trail
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501
505-365-2758
GEMSONG GALLERY
Discover Santa Fe’s largest collection of turquoise at Gemsong Gallery, next to Detours at La Fonda.
Learn about the history of turquoise through Gemsong’s “Turquoise 101 Tour” guided by Peter Vajda, an industry icon and a unique resource in Santa Fe, who:
- Led the jewelry and gemstone trades for over six decades
- Operated on every level of trade from mining to retail
- Is a world recognized expert in colored gems, has lectured widely and advised gemstone laboratories around the globe
- Wrote definitions concerning the proper disclosure and sales of turquoise and other gems, definitions related to authentic Native American jewelry and other Native American Arts and Crafts for both state and federal laws (testifying before the US Congress twice)
- Was intermittently the largest international turquoise dealer during his career (acquiring over 10 billion carats of turquoise from virtually every iconic turquoise mine in the world)
- Specializes in collectable American Turquoise and Native American Jewelry
- Served as a board member for the New Mexico Better Business Bureau and a member of Ethical Trade Organization
- Featured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal
To book a tour, inquire at the gallery or call:
505.819.7227 or 505.988.5536
EXPLORE THE SHOPS
SANTA FE MAGAZINE FESTIVAL
And because you matter to us, we’re giving you 20% off admission.
Use code LAFONDA26P to apply your discount.