With a traditional opening of Ski Santa Fe on Thanksgiving day (first time since 2002!) and the continued blessing of snow these past weeks, we find the skiers and snowboarders getting their edges sharpened and the children finding their warm and fuzzy snow suits for sledding. It also means that children from 5 to 50 watch the night sky for the tell tale orange glow that means fresh powder and snow days! Winter in Santa Fe is magical and every year offers an opportunity to add a new, wonderful tradition to the holiday season time.
At this time of year, all the family traditions begin anew and like most Santa Feans have certain foods that always accompany those special events. From blue corn to green chile, red peppers to white chocolate, there is always color and flavor in abundance. And who doesn't love chocolate as the sweet ending to a perfect night? Whether you like your cocoa dark and rich or flavored and fluffy, there is a chocolate treat that will delight. Lauren Roybal is just the person to lead you down the candy lane! As the owner of Cocopelli Chocolatier, she is the expert to help you explores different ganache recipes, teach you the truffle technique, and get you on your way to making your very own personalized chocolate gifts. And if chocolate is not your cup of tea or you miss the December 14th class, check out the many other class offerings from the Santa Fe Culinary Academy.
What to do, what to do….. So many holiday events to choose from. Should you attend Christmas at the Palace or our staff’s favorite pick for this weekend Las Posadas? Las Posadas captures a time honored Hispanic tradition in Santa Fe. This annual candle-lit procession circles the Santa Fe Plaza to recreate Mary and Joseph’s search for a room at the inn. It ends in the beautiful Palace Courtyard, where you should plan to linger and join in the singing of carols, drinking hot chocolate and eating biscochitos. This year the event will be held on December 15th from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Be sure to bring your earmuffs and mittens because it can get very chilly this time of year.
Another unique tradition to New Mexico is the ability to participate in Native American feast days. This is an amazing 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 every year on December 12th and takes place on the kiva plaza area on Camino del Rincon/Co Rd 84E.
Our Inn of the Governors family says "Bienvenidos, or welcome" and we hope you enjoy your visit and our holiday traditions.
