The Franciscan Festival of Fine Arts returns to the Holy Cross Retreat Center in Mesilla Park, New Mexico, on September 5 and 6, 2026. This Labor Day weekend tradition showcases the work of regional artists across various media, including painting, sculpture, jewelry, and ceramics. The festival provides a relaxed environment for visitors to engage with local creators while exploring the scenic retreat center property.
In addition to the art market, the event features a silent auction and a beer hall. Proceeds from the festival support the ministries and maintenance of the Holy Cross Retreat Center, an established spiritual landmark in Southern New Mexico.
WHAT ARE THE EVENT DETAILS FOR THE 2026 FRANCISCAN FESTIVAL?
In short: Visit the Holy Cross Retreat Center during Labor Day weekend to shop for original artwork from regional creators. The event is free to attend and includes a silent auction and live music throughout the afternoon.
- Date: September 5 and 6
- Time: Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: Holy Cross Retreat Center, 600 Holy Cross Road, Mesilla Park, NM
- Activities: Fine art vendor booths, silent auction, live music, beer hall and local food.
- Admission: Free to the public; donations to the retreat center are welcome.
WHY ATTEND THE FRANCISCAN FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS?
- Support Local Artists: Purchase directly from New Mexico and Southwest artists, ensuring your support stays within the regional creative economy.
- Unique Setting: The festival is held on the quiet, shaded grounds of a historic retreat center, offering a different atmosphere than typical street fairs.
- Philanthropy: Event proceeds benefit the Holy Cross Retreat Center, helping fund their community outreach and spiritual programs.
ATTEND THE 2026 FRANCISCAN FESTIVAL
The Franciscan Festival of Fine Arts is a staple of the end of the summer season in Mesilla Valley. It is an ideal destination for those looking to collect unique pieces of art or enjoy a peaceful weekend outing. Plan to arrive early on Saturday morning for the best selection of handcrafted items and to browse the silent auction before bidding closes.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT TYPES OF ART ARE FEATURED AT THE FESTIVAL?
The Franciscan Festival of Fine Arts hosts over 80 artists specializing in a wide range of styles and media. You can find traditional Southwest painting, contemporary sculpture, handcrafted jewelry, functional ceramics, and photography. Every artist is vetted to ensure the work presented is original and of high quality. Many artists are available at their booths to discuss their techniques and the inspiration behind their pieces, making it a valuable experience for serious collectors and casual shoppers alike.
HOW DO PROCEEDS FROM THE FESTIVAL SUPPORT THE RETREAT CENTER?
While admission to the festival is free, the Holy Cross Retreat Center generates funds through artist booth fees, silent auction proceeds, and voluntary donations. These funds are critical for the upkeep of the 100-acre property and the continuation of the center’s mission. The center provides a space for spiritual retreats, community meetings, and support for those in need in the Mesilla Valley. By participating in the silent auction or purchasing food on-site, you directly contribute to these local social service and spiritual programs.
IS THE HOLY CROSS RETREAT CENTER ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL VISITORS?
The festival is held outdoors on the grounds of the retreat center. Most of the artist booths are located on flat, grassy areas or paved walkways. While the center makes every effort to ensure accessibility, some natural terrain may be uneven. Ample parking is available in the surrounding fields, and volunteers are typically on hand to assist guests with navigation or to help transport larger art purchases to their vehicles. If you have specific accessibility needs, it is recommended to contact the center office in advance of the weekend.
CAN I DONATE ITEMS TO THE SILENT AUCTION?
The silent auction is a major component of the festival’s fundraising efforts and features donated items ranging from original artwork to gift certificates for local services. If you are a business owner or artist interested in donating to the auction, you should contact the Holy Cross Retreat Center several weeks before the event. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law, and donors are recognized during the event for their contribution to the center’s mission and maintenance.
Posted by LasCruces.com
