5 Must-Do Activities for an Unforgettable Santa Fe Thanksgiving Weekend
5 Must-Do Activities for an Unforgettable Santa Fe Thanksgiving Weekend
Thanksgiving offers the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the year's highlights. In Santa Fe, we're especially grateful for our breathtaking mountain scenery and one-of-a-kind experiences. From world-class dining and Plaza festivities to the magical kickoff of the holiday season, The City Different delivers endless holiday joy. Explore these top activities for Thanksgiving weekend—you'll be glad you did.
Let Santa Fe's World-Renowned Chefs Handle Thanksgiving Dinner
Follow the locals' lead and let our acclaimed chefs craft an extraordinary Thanksgiving feast. Talented Santa Fe restaurants like Santacafe, Sassella, Geronimo, The Compound, and Dinner for Two are preparing special menus to delight every guest. Reservations recommended.
Ski the Santa Fe Way
Discover one of the Southwest's premier ski and snowboard destinations right in Santa Fe. Ski Santa Fe, located just 16 miles from the Plaza in the Santa Fe National Forest, typically opens on Thanksgiving Day (weather permitting).
Boasting a 12,075-foot summit, 1,725 feet of vertical drop, 77 trails, and 225 inches of average annual snowfall, it offers terrain for all levels: beginner slopes, cruiser runs, bump trails, glades, tree runs, chutes, and bowls. Even on heavy snow days, the city sees just a light dusting under that iconic glowing light. The season runs into early spring.
Unwind with a Luxurious Spa Soak
A couple soaking at Ojo Santa Fe Resort
Rejuvenate at Santa Fe's award-winning soaking spas. Ten Thousand Waves Japanese Spa Resort and Ojo Santa Fe Resort earned spots on Conde Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards for "Top Spa Resorts in the United States," with consistent acclaim in prior years. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort, an hour's scenic drive north, is another excellent choice. Book ahead for soaks, treatments, and gourmet dining.
Shop for Unique Holiday Gifts
Discover authentic Native jewelry and handmade treasures in Santa Fe.
While in Santa Fe for Thanksgiving, indulge your inner shopper. Start hunting for that perfect holiday gift amid authentic Native American jewelry, artisan crafts, and boutique finds at trading posts. No wonder Sunset Magazine named Santa Fe the #1 Shopping Destination.
Launch the Holiday Season Santa Fe Style
The Santa Fe Plaza glows with holiday magic. (Photo courtesy of Tourism Santa Fe)
The day after Thanksgiving, the holiday season officially begins at 5:30 p.m. with the lighting of the historic Santa Fe Plaza. Savor hot chocolate, stroll amid festive decor, sing carols, enjoy live entertainment, and meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The Mayor kicks things off, but Santa's arrival steals the show.
Whether visiting this November or planning ahead, order your free Official Santa Fe Visitors Guide or check our deals and specials to craft your ideal trip.
