The holiday season is right around the corner, and Santa Fe has plenty of merriment in store for you! From seasonal celebrations to snowy recreation, there’s so much to do and see this year. Keep reading to learn about all the ways you can celebrate the holidays in Santa Fe, NM!
Plaza Lighting Ceremony
The holiday festivities kick off the day after Thanksgiving every year during the Plaza Lighting Ceremony. Offering live music, steaming hot chocolate, and a visit from jolly ol’ Saint Nick, the celebrations are fun for the whole family. As the sun starts to set, the farolitos, or lanterns, are lit and the Christmas decorations on the plaza come to life. This is a wonderful start of the holiday season.
Christmas at the Palace of the Governors
This annual event is a well-loved Santa Fe tradition. Locals and visitors alike come together at the History Museum and Palace to celebrate the holidays with arts and crafts, hot cider, tasty treats, musical performances, and of course a chance to take pictures with Santa.
Festivities at the Native Pueblos
The Native Pueblos host incredible events all year long, and Christmas time is no exception. The first weekend in December is the Walatowa Winter Arts & Crafts Show at the Jemez Pueblo. On December 11, 2022, the Pojoaque Pueblo invites visitors to their Vespers Procession and Dances. December 12 brings the Pojoaque Pueblo celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe Feast Day. The day starts with a 10:00am Mass, and leads to more incredible dances later in the day. Dates are subject to change, so we recommend checking with the Pueblos before planning your trip.
GLOW Winter Lights Event at the Santa Fe Botanical Gardens
Every year, the Santa Fe Botanical Gardens transform into a spectacular winter wonderland. This year, during the Holiday Stroll, you’ll meander through the gardens down walkways lined with farolitos as you listen to the sounds of holiday music. Enjoy warm beverages as well as natural crafts and ornament makingg.
Visit The Shop: A Christmas Store
Since 1977, Santa Fe locals and visitors have made The Shop: A Christmas Store their Christmas shopping destination. It’s Christmas all year long at The Shop, which features ornaments, string lights, advent calendars, nativities, decorations, and more holiday goodies, many of which are handcrafted by New Mexico artists.
Hit the Slopes at Ski Santa Fe
Nothing puts us in the holiday spirit like snow, and Ski Santa Fe is the place to see it! With plenty of runs for beginners, intermediates, and experienced skiers, you’re sure to have a blast racing down the slopes this season. If you need a little guidance, Ski Santa Fe offers plenty of lessons to help you get your footing. If you’re looking to relax after a long day on the mountain, grab a bite to eat at one of the excellent restaurants at the mountain’s base. Ski Santa Fe is traditionally open from the day after Thanksgiving until Easter weekend.
Cozy Overnight Stay in Santa Fe
These are just a few ways to celebrate the holidays in Santa Fe, NM this year. In the middle of it all, you’ll find comfort and joy at Inn of the Turquoise Bear. Our nine well-appointed guest rooms are ideal for relaxing after a day of merriment. Warm up by the wood-burning Kiva fireplace, snuggle up in a luxurious bathrobe, and savor a filling gourmet breakfast every morning at our beautiful rambling adobe estate. The holiday season books up early, so reserve your favorite guest room today!
Updated November 2022
