2026 marks 37 years of celebrating Native American art, culture, and creativity in Farmington with the Totah Fine Arts Festival. Returning September 4-6, 2026, the three-day event continues its mission of honoring talented artists while creating opportunities to experience the craftsmanship, stories, and cultural traditions that have shaped the Southwest for generations.
Throughout the weekend, the Farmington Civic Center is filled with an Indian Market featuring more than 150 juried Native American artists, an authentic Navajo rug auction, the return of the Powwow and Gourd Dance, the Totah Run the River 5K, and food vendors serving festival favorites. Together, these events create a celebration that highlights artistry, connection, and the enduring cultural heritage of the Southwest.
What story is woven into the history of Totah Festival?
Since its founding in 1988, the festival has celebrated the rich art, culture, and history of the Four Corners Region. Established through the vision of Claudine Riddle, the festival was created to bring together Native American artists and provide a place where their creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural knowledge could be shared with people from across the region.
From the beginning, the festival has focused on honoring the artists who continue these practices while creating connections between artists, collectors, and those looking to experience the region’s diverse cultural heritage. Over the years, it has grown into one of Farmington’s signature annual events, welcoming artists from throughout the region and continuing to highlight the incredible talent found in the area.
Nearly four decades later, the festival remains rooted in the same mission: celebrating Native American art, supporting artists, and preserving the cultural heritage that continues to shape the Southwest.
What experiences define Totah Festival?
The Indian Market is one of the festival’s biggest highlights, bringing together more than 150 juried Native American artists who display their work during the market. The market showcases a wide range of artwork created by talented Native American artists, with each piece reflecting unique styles, skills, and creative perspectives. Many artists are on-site during the festival, allowing guests to connect with them and learn more about the stories and techniques behind their creations.
Beyond the opportunity to purchase artwork, the market gives attendees the chance to connect with the artists themselves and discover the meaning behind each piece. Many artists share the skills and techniques passed down through generations while also incorporating their own creativity and perspectives into their work. This blend of history, artistry, and innovation is part of what makes the market such an important part of the weekend.
One of the most anticipated events is the authentic Navajo rug auction, held Saturday afternoon. Featuring more than 350 rugs, the auction celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship of Navajo weaving while giving collectors and art enthusiasts the chance to view an impressive collection in one place. Many of the weavers attend the auction themselves, giving festival goers a rare chance to connect with the people behind these carefully crafted works of art and learn more about the time, skill, and dedication involved in creating each piece.
The weekend extends beyond the artwork with the return of the Powwow and Gourd Dance, creating an energetic atmosphere filled with music, dance, and storytelling. These performances honor customs shared across generations while bringing movement and cultural expression into the event. The Powwow and Gourd Dance also create a welcoming gathering place where attendees can experience the energy and hospitality that have long been part of this event. Combined with food vendors and the bustling Indian Market, these performances help create a weekend experience that is about much more than art alone.
On Sunday morning, the Totah Run the River 5K offers another way to take part in the festivities. Beginning at Berg Park, the course follows the scenic Animas River trail, providing a beautiful setting for runners, joggers, and walkers alike. Since becoming part of the annual festival in 2017, the race has become a favorite event that brings together local residents, artists, and participants before another full day of activities downtown.
Each part of the weekend offers a different way to experience the artistry, history, and cultural heritage that have shaped the festival over the years.
2026 Totah Fine Arts Festival Schedule of Events
The 37th Annual Totah Fine Arts Festival takes place Friday, September 4, through Sunday, September 6, 2026, at the Farmington Civic Center.
Friday, September 4
- Juried Art Show Competition Registration: 8 a.m. to noon
- Rug Check-In: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Artist Check-In: Noon to 4:30 p.m.
- Juried Competition Awards and Poster Contest Unveiling: 5 to 7 p.m.
Saturday, September 5
- Artist Check-In: 7 to 9 a.m.
- Rug Check-In: 9 a.m. to noon
- Festival and Indian Market: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Powwow and Gourd Dance: Noon to 7 p.m.
- Authentic Navajo Rug Auction: 1 p.m.
Sunday, September 6
- Totah Run the River 5K: 8 a.m. at Berg Park
- Festival and Indian Market: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Powwow and Gourd Dance: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For nearly 40 years, this annual celebration has connected artists, residents, and visitors through a shared appreciation for Native American art, creativity, and culture. The festival continues to honor the craftsmanship and stories of artists while creating a space where people can gather, learn, and experience the cultural richness of the region. Explore the full event listing here: https://farmingtonnm.org/events/totah-fine-arts-festival