Good morning, this is your Santa Fe Local Frequency for Friday, May 16, 2025.
We start today with exciting news for book lovers and culture seekers—the Santa Fe International Literary Festival kicks off today and runs through the weekend at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center. This annual event is now in its fourth year and continues to draw literary rock stars, world-renowned authors, and passionate readers from near and far. If you love insightful conversations, book signings, and lively panels, you won’t want to miss the energy downtown as the city comes alive with creative voices. There’s a real sense of community in the air as locals and visitors gather to celebrate the power of storytelling and the written word. Tickets are still available for some events, and the festival is buzzing with anticipation for headline appearances and interactive sessions. Even if you don’t have a ticket, the festival’s presence infuses downtown with a special vibrancy this weekend, so it’s a great time to stroll the Plaza, check out local bookshops, and maybe grab a coffee alongside your favorite author.
Santa Fe is also celebrating its reputation as a top destination for arts and culture this May, with a diverse lineup of events designed to showcase creativity, community, and Indigenous heritage. The city’s world-class museums are offering special exhibitions and activities, including the much-anticipated Native Dance Series at the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. This ongoing program features traditional dances performed by Native artists, and it’s a unique opportunity to witness living heritage right here in Santa Fe. Be sure to check the museum schedules for performance times and additional cultural programming.
Art lovers can also explore new exhibitions across the city’s four state museums and several historic sites. May is truly the month to connect with Santa Fe’s rich cultural offerings, from exclusive member events to open markets and city-wide traditions. If you’re looking for something family-friendly, many of these museums are offering free or reduced admission for active-duty military and their families as a thank you for their service.
The City Council’s approval of a 479-million-dollar budget earlier this week is set to shape Santa Fe’s priorities for the coming year, with significant investments expected in local services, arts programming, and community development. Keep an eye out for new projects and improvements breaking ground this summer, as Santa Fe continues to invest in what makes our city vibrant and welcoming.
Whether you’re catching a reading at the Literary Festival, exploring a local exhibit, or simply enjoying a walk through historic neighborhoods, Santa Fe continues to offer something special at every turn.
This has been Santa Fe Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
