Santa Fe July Kick Off

July 5, 2011: Santa Fe's summer arts and culture scene is in full swing as three of the region's most significant cultural events - Santa Fe Opera, ART Santa Fe and the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market - kick off in the next week.

The internationally celebrated Santa Fe Opera opened its season on July 1 with a critically acclaimed performance of Gounod's Faust. The summer season runs through August 27 and includes performances of Puccini's La Boheme, Vivaldi's Griselda, Menotti's The Last Savage and Alban Berg's Wozzeck, Set in spectacular fashion amidst the visually stunning Sangre de Cristo and Jemez Mountains, the opera performances start at sundown. Guests often pack a tailgate dinner or sign up for the preview buffet for $53 per person. For more information or to reserve tickets, call (505) 986-5900 or visit
www.santafeopera.org

ART Santa Fe returns to the Santa Fe Community Convention Center for its 11th annual international art fair, July 7-10. ART Santa Fe, which will host exhibitors and visitors from around the world, offers an experience that includes a mix of outstanding contemporary galleries, cutting-edge art installations, emerging artists and dealers, an opening night vernissage and a feature lecture by author, New Yorker columnist and social observer Lawrence Weschler. For more information, call (505) 988-8883 or visit
www.artsantafe.com

Now in its 8th year, the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market is the largest international folk art market in the world. This annual three-day event, taking place July 8-10, connects international cultures as established traditional artists from across the globe come together to display, demonstrate and sell their work. The market provides the chance to meet and shop 170 of the world's finest artists while helping preserve critical cultural traditions and support the artists' communities. The days are filled with international music, food, and customs at beautiful Milner Plaza on Museum Hill. For more information, call (505) 992-7600 or visit
www.folkartmarket.org

Santa Fe, New Mexico has earned the reputation as one of America's most fascinating cities. Rich in history, culture and ancient traditions, the city has been designated a UNESCO Creative City, one of only a handful worldwide. A diverse, four-season destination, Santa Fe boasts an average of 300 sunny days a year, along with thriving arts, cultural and culinary offerings. For further information about visiting Santa Fe, call the Santa Fe Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-777-2489 or visit
www.santafe.org