Heading to Santa Fe Indian Market this weekend? Check out this survival guide

Although the Santa Fe Indian Market officially opens at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19, shoppers who want to see it all may want to arrive earlier — say at 7 or 8 a.m.

With a reported 100,000 to 130,000 people descending on the Santa Fe Plaza, it’s best to have a plan.

Those early bird hours give collectors the chance to see all of their favorite artists’ wares before they get sold or sold out. You’ll also be able to check out the prize winners’ works before crowds swarm their booths.

Admission is free, but the jewelry, pottery, paintings and rugs definitely are not.

Wear your most comfortable clothing and shoes; you’re going to be walking around the Plaza and beyond. Don’t forget sunscreen. Bring a water bottle and don’t be surprised if you encounter a rain shower.

Go to lunch early; by 11 a.m. the restaurants may already be full. Or skip the crowds and try breakfast instead.

Parking is tight; try the lot across the street from the Roundhouse by the Capitol lot near Paseo de Peralta and Old Santa Fe Trail for free spaces.

Here’s a weekend schedule, courtesy of the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts:

The market officially opens at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, with more than 1,000 artists from more than 200 tribes.

Live performances on the Plaza Stage and Cathedral Park Stage run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Native American Clothing Contest is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 20 on the Plaza Stage. Expect a wide array of regalia and clothing from North American Indigenous Nations.

According to the City of Santa Fe, the following streets and areas will close to vehicle traffic beginning on Thursday, Aug. 17, at 12 p.m. through Sunday, Aug. 20:

• Santa Fe Plaza.

• East San Francisco Street from Don Gaspar to Cathedral Place.

• Cathedral Place from East Palace Avenue to East Water Street.

• Old Santa Fe Trail from Water Street to East Palace Avenue.

• Palace Avenue from Grant Avenue to Otero Street.

• Washington Street from Palace Avenue to Nusbaum Street.

• Marcy Street from Grant Avenue to Washington Street.

• Lincoln Avenue from South Federal Place to West Palace Avenue.

Parking Meters: Parking meter bagging will begin on Wednesday, Aug. 16, at 6 p.m. All vehicles must vacate parking spaces with bagged meters by 12 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 17.

Buses: The Santa Fe Trails Sheridan Transit Center will temporarily reroute to West Alameda between Sandoval and Guadalupe Street. (across from the De Vargas Park) starting the evening of Wednesday, Aug. 16, through Sunday, Aug. 20. Santa Fe Trails will offer free fares in honor of the Market on Saturday, Aug. 19, and Sunday, Aug. 20.

Roads will reopen, and regular vehicle access will resume on Monday, Aug. 21.