Free events in Santa Fe, NM

A Pokemon gathering offering off meta play for adults and the standard format for kids. Admission is free, with the focus on having fun and enjoying the game.

Sky Cinemas hosts a chess gathering with newly added rated games. Players can choose relaxed matches with free guidance from experts at no charge, or take on a weekly competitive round with cash prizes distributed at the end of the month. Current tournament details are available.

Live music with Johnny Lloyd and company fills The Cowgirl BBQ with a family-friendly performance that is free to attend. Food and margaritas are available to complement the show. Photo credit: LZackler.

This free learn-to-play session teaches the basics of how to play Pokémon.

Build your bachata basics in a friendly 60 minute class focused on foundations and connection. Expect a mix of solo practice and partner work that welcomes absolute beginners and anyone new to formal training. No partner or prior experience is required, and your first class is free. Across a four week rotation, you will learn to hear the structure of bachata music and explore its cultural background, gain control over several fundamental step variations and grooves, develop solid technique for leading and following turns, strengthen partner connection through frame exercises, and bring it all together in simple combinations with smooth flow. All key skills are introduced over four consecutive weeks, but true ease comes with repetition, so you are encouraged to repeat the cycle until you feel ready for the next level. You can start on any week.

Explore Riftbound in a learn to play session that introduces the basics of battling in the rift. There is no cost to participate.

A free community celebration of queer joy fills High Desert Cafe & Bar at The Mystic Santa Fe with a lively monthly dance party. In collaboration with the Human Rights Alliance and LezGo NM, Somewhere in the Rainbow creates a welcoming space to move, connect, and celebrate, inspired by the Queer Get Together of Santa Fe. There is no cover charge and no ticket is required. Enjoy the featured Rainbow Eclipse cocktail, crafted with vodka, grapefruit, cranberry mint–infused simple syrup, a hint of white glitter, and a fresh mint sprig. Nonalcoholic options are available, and the cafe offers a full dinner menu. Parking is provided in two lots at The Mystic, with additional street parking along Clark Rd between Jackalope and Big 5 Sporting Goods. Please do not park in the Jackalope lot next door. High Desert is The Mystic’s bar and cafe, serving breakfast and afternoon fare with a dessert bar later in the evening, plus light bites, salads, pizzas, paninis, and charcuterie boards alongside a full coffee and cocktail bar.

Players meet each Sunday at CHOMP Food Hall for free chess practice and coaching. The session continues even when salsa night is happening.