The Santa Fe International Literary Festival (SFILF), now in its fourth year, draws book lovers to the City Different every May. This year, the festival is expected to attract around 20,000 attendees to the Santa Fe Community Convention Center, taking place on the third weekend of the month.

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Founded by Clare Hertel, Mark Bryant, and Carmella Padilla, the festival aims to highlight New Mexico's rich storytelling legacy in an intimate setting with renowned authors from the region and beyond. This year's lineup includes prominent figures such as Judy Blume, Ada Limón, James McBride, and Ocean Vuong, alongside local writers like Brandon Hobson and Priyanka Kumar.

Author Deborah Jackson Taffa, whose memoir “Whiskey Tender” was a National Book Award finalist, emphasizes the festival's growing reputation, noting that many prominent authors are eager to participate due to the buzz surrounding the event.

The SFILF distinguishes itself as an international festival by offering relaxed yet meaningful interactions between authors and attendees in a cozy venue. Its schedule includes engaging discussions on poignant topics as well as unique programming like train rides and art tours, set against the charming backdrop of Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the U.S.

Taffa recalls a warm moment during last year's festival when authors William deBuys and Terry Tempest Williams shared a microphone by sitting on the floor together, highlighting the festival's intimate atmosphere.

Hobson, a Las Cruces-based author, will interview Taffa this year. He remarked on Santa Fe’s unique allure, linking it to New Mexico’s storytelling tradition, which includes celebrated figures like Rudolfo Anaya and George R.R. Martin.

The festival aims to make a community impact as well. Last year, it received nonprofit status, enabling it to distribute around 2,000 free tickets to local students and educators. Engaging with the community is a key aspect of SFILF, with authors meeting local groups as part of their participation.

Padilla expressed her hope for the festival to promote both literature and a sense of belonging for all attendees, emphasizing the universal importance of storytelling.

The festival will feature high-profile discussions with authors such as Alison Bechdel and Isabel Wilkerson, alongside literary day trips and community-oriented events to enhance the experience for festival-goers, culminating with a conversation with Judy Blume on the final evening.