4 Best Performing Arts Venues in Santa Fe, New Mexico

The newer and bigger incarnation of the city's long-running Bandstand Concert series is now presented by Lensic 360, an extension of the Lensic Performing Arts Center. From early June through August, outstanding local and nationally known musicians from a variety of genres (blues, country, folk, Latin, rock) perform for free most nights of the week, typically either at Downtown's festive and historic Plaza or at the lively Railyard Plaza, and occasionally at Swan Park on the South Side (off NM 599). Free movie screenings are also part of this superb mix of programming.

Performances take place over about three weeks in late July and early August at a variety of compelling venues, from the Cathedral Basilica St. Francis to Loretto Chapel. This highly regarded singing group, which was started in 1982, also performs during the December holiday season.

First-rate orchestra and chamber concerts are given at St. Francis Auditorium and the Lensic Performing Arts Center by the Grammy-nominated Santa Fe Pro Musica from September through April. Baroque and other classical compositions are the normal fare; the annual Christmas performance, held at Loretto Chapel, is a highlight.

This highly respected symphony performs about 10 concerts each season (September to May) in the Lensic Performing Arts Center.