Whether you’re in search of sunny skies or a festive ambiance, Santa Fe offers both, making it a prime destination during the holidays. Come enjoy outdoor adventures, fine dining, holiday shopping and entertaining events in our iconic Southwestern city. To learn more, here’s our guide to holiday events in Santa Fe for a getaway to remember.
Holiday Shopping in Santa Fe
Recycle Santa Fe Art Festival
Eco-conscious holiday shoppers will want to experience the country’s oldest and largest recycled art market! Located at the Santa Fe Convention Center, this weekend event is dedicated to showcasing art created from discarded materials by more than 100 artists from around New Mexico and other states.
Winter Indian Market
Discover unique gifts when you do your holiday shopping with Native artists at La Fonda on the Plaza. In fact, this festive environment is a downtown Santa Fe landmark! What’s more, the Winter Indian Market is organized by the non-profit organization SWAIA (Southwestern Association for Indian Arts), “bringing Native arts to the world by inspiring artistic excellence, fostering education, and creating meaningful partnerships.”
Holiday Shopping in Downtown Santa Fe
The handmade artwork, clothing, jewelry, toys, and decor you’ll find in the shops around Santa Fe make for excellent, one-of-a-kind gifts. In fact, the eclectic boutiques around town are guaranteed to have something for everyone on your list. Check out our blog post for all the details on the best holiday shopping in Santa Fe.
Holiday Events & Attractions in Santa Fe
Christmas Lighting on the Plaza
Kick off the holiday season with music, entertainment, tasty treats, and hot chocolate at the annual Christmas Tree Lighting on the Plaza. Moreover, you can watch Mr. and Mrs. Claus ride around the Plaza in a vintage fire truck. After that, head over to The Shop to take pictures with Santa. Finally, attend the farolito lighting and tree lighting ceremony at dusk.
Entreflamenco Christmas Season
A unique Christmas experience is a series of holiday performances by the accomplished flamenco dance company. You can enjoy dinner with the show or show only tickets. Entreflamenco Spanish Cabaret performs at their own El Flamenco Cabaret at 135 W. Palace Street.
Chanuka on the Plaza
Join in the annual Chanukah on the Plaza event with the lighting of the Grand Menorah, live entertainment, dancing, Chanukah gelt, traditional potato latkes and doughnuts. Free to all on the Plaza. Hosted by the Santa Fe Jewish Center.
The Santa Fe Symphony
Enjoy traditional holiday music including Sounds of the Season at the Lensic, a FREE Carols & Choruses at the Cathedral and much more by the phenomenal Santa Fe Symphony.
Santa Fe Pro Musica
Experience the enchanting and unique sounds of the holidays with live performances by the Grammy nominated Santa Fe Pro Musica. Their extensive holiday lineup includes their Holiday Bach Festival and A Baroque Christmas!
Canyon Road Farolito Walk
Perhaps the most beloved of all Santa Fe holiday traditions is the Canyon Road Farolito Walk. Firstly, stroll amongst thousands of farolitos as they illuminate the adobe walls and gardens. Farolitos are traditional lights made of paper bags, sand, and tea light candles. The lights, street musicians, and piping hot chocolate will certainly enchant you during this magical Christmas Eve event.
News Year’s Eve on the Plaza
Bundle up and say adios to the year at the fun and free New Year’s Eve on the Plaza. Celebrate with delectable food and dance along to festive music. Afterward, enjoy a spectacular fireworks display as the Zia rises to ring in the new year!
Holiday Lodging in Santa Fe
After a day of celebrating at any of these exciting holiday events in Santa Fe, retire to your cozy accommodations at Inn of the Turquoise Bear. Snuggle up by a traditional wood-burning Kiva fireplace and sip a warm beverage. Afterward, settle into your plush bed for a peaceful night’s sleep. Our beautiful and historic adobe inn is open all holiday season.
Updated November 2022
