The Inn of the Governors begins its holiday tradition December 14, at 2pm with the annual decorating and lighting of our Christmas tree by both our employees and those guests who are staying with us. To encourage festive cheer, we share biscochitos and hot chocolate with those “elves” that have come to help with the decorating. Once the tree has donned its lights and ornaments, many of our guests stay for the daily Tea and Sherry hour which begins at 4pm. It is such a lovely way to start the holiday season.
Prior to our own festivities, we encourage everyone visiting this weekend to participate in three wonderful events. These annual events are walking distance from the Inn and are not to be missed. Begin the festivities on Friday evening, December 11th, from 5:30pm-8pm, with Christmas at the Palace. This year marks the 31st anniversary of this community celebration. We encourage you to take the whole family and enjoy hot cider, cookies, live music, piñatas, and a special visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. There will be small bonfires in the courtyard to warm your hands and sing some carols by, too.
On the 12th and 13th, Saturday & Sunday, from 9am-3pm, you won’t want to miss the Young Native Artists Holiday Show and Sale held in the New Mexico History Museum’s Meem Community room. Children and grandchildren of the Palace Portal’s artisans will display their own creations. Support the next generation of artists and find that very unique Christmas gift you were looking for at the same time.
Beginning at 5:30pm, on Sunday evening the 13th, on the Santa Fe Plaza, join in the annual candle-lit procession of Las Posadas. Travel around the plaza with Mary and Joseph as they seek a safe place to give birth for the baby Jesus and raise your voice to help “boo” the devils that pop up along the way. As you end the evening with carols and refreshments in the Palace courtyard; check this one off your Santa Fe travel bucket list.
Another unique tradition to New Mexico is the ability to participate in Native American feast days. This is an amazing and unique opportunity to experience their language, culture, and religion. Members of the tribe will even invite visitors to sit down and enjoy a bountiful feast in their homes. It is important to be aware of the etiquette of participating before you decide to make the journey. The Pueblo of Pojoaque celebrates Our Lady of Guadalupe each year on December 12th with reverent dances and songs. This special feast day takes place at the Pueblo’s plaza area (near the Tribal Council Chambers and Early Childhood Center). Please call 505-455-4500 for times as they haven’t been published at the time of this posting.
Our Inn of the Governors’ family says “Bienvenidos , or welcome” and we hope you enjoy your visit and maybe our holiday traditions will become your holiday traditions, too. Safe travels, Deb Swanson
Note: The post was originally published on December 9, 2014 and has been updated for current events.
