The World Comes to Santa Fe

International Folk Art Market

Wednesday–Sunday, July 5–9, 2023

Since its inception in 2004 on Museum Hill, the International Folk Art Market (IFAM) has brought the world to Santa Fe with a dazzling array of artists and artwork from more than 100 countries and has become the largest market of its kind in the United States. This year, the Market moves to the Santa Fe Railyard Park for easier access, more room, and enhanced amenities for visitors. There will be 168 artists from 52 countries in 2023.

Perhaps the most exciting part of the Market is the opportunity to meet and talk directly with the artists. They have been through a lengthy process of applying to the market, making their goods, and traveling, often long distances, to Santa Fe to the eager audiences the market provides. “Market artists can make maybe 70 percent of their yearly income at this market in one weekend,” says Adrienne Murray, director of marketing and communications for IFAM. “People take that money back to their communities, and they build schools or put in irrigation lines for their crops. It ends up having this ripple effect.” In addition, many booths represent collectives of dozens of artists, increasing the impact of the Market across communities.

Be sure to be at the free Community Celebration on the Santa Fe Railyard Plaza, where artists will attend a welcoming procession often in traditional regalia, followed by dancing to world music.

With a $1,000 donation, you can attend the Opening Night celebration on Thursday, July 6. The Folk Art Market does charge admission for all events at the Railyard, and premium Early Bird tickets for 9 to 11 AM on Friday are worth the additional cost if you’re a collector or want a less-crowded atmosphere. Other than the Japan Stone Circle this year, artists are not organized by country or medium, but instead by neighborhoods that focus on specific themes. Expect to explore a swirling bazaar of color, community, and artwork. Head straight for the Best of the Best booth (consult the map when you enter the grounds) to get an overview of the market in one concentrated area. You can buy there or go meet the artists of your favorite pieces in their booths. There is an entertainment stage with world music, food booths representing many culinary traditions, and art activities and demonstrations.

For the second year, the Saturday Night Market (6–9 PM, July 8) is a can’t-miss event—shopping, live performances, a Saturday Night Concert Performance by Delgrés, food trucks, and a festive atmosphere. Sunday is Community Day, with activities geared to families; also on Sunday, some artists may discount their work after 2 PM.

To get the most out of your visit to the Market, pick up a copy of the Santa Fe New Mexican’s supplement, which publishes on Sunday, July 2. Copies are available at the IFAM office (620 Cerrillos Rd.) or at the Market.

For complete details and to purchase admission tickets, visit folkartmarket.org.

Wednesday, July 5 7 PM Community Celebration, Santa Fe Plaza, free Thursday, July 6 6PM–9 PM Opening Night Party, Railyard Park by invitation only (Contact Carrie Marsh at 505-992-7602 for more details)

Friday, July 7 9 AM–11 AM IFAM Early Bird Market, Railyard Park, admission required 11 AM–6 PM IFAM Market, Railyard Park, admission required

Saturday, July 8 11 AM–6 PM IFAM Market, Railyard Park, admission required

6PM–9 PM IFAM Saturday Night Market, Railyard Park, admission required

Sunday, July 9 11 AM–6 PM IFAM Market and Community Day, Railyard Park, admission required