Must-See December Events in Santa Fe: Timeless Holiday Traditions in The City Different
Make your December unforgettable with a trip to Santa Fe, The City Different. Adorned in vibrant holiday lights and colors, this historic gem blends rich traditions, snow-kissed landscapes, crisp blue skies, world-renowned cuisine, live music, and performing arts for the perfect winter escape. Below are standout December events that capture Santa Fe's unique holiday spirit. Note: Dates reference 2019; many are annual traditions—verify current schedules on official sites for the latest details.
Santa Fe Artists in Residence
November 1, 2019 - February 29, 2020
Throughout winter, talented artists craft masterpieces in local hotels and galleries. Witness their creative process firsthand and take home a unique piece of Santa Fe art.
GLOW
November 30 - December 31, 2019
Illuminate your holidays at GLOW – Cosmic Nights! Thousands of twinkling lights and stunning installations light up the Santa Fe Botanical Garden. Enjoy live music, festive drinks, and a visit with Santa (free for kids 12 and under). Runs from November 30 through December 31, 2019.
Christmas at the Palace
December 13, 2019
Santa Fe's Palace of the Governors, the oldest continuously operating public building in the U.S., hosts this enchanting event on December 13, 2019, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. on the Plaza. Revelers enjoy an old-fashioned celebration honoring Pueblo and Spanish holiday traditions, with hot cider, music, and merriment. Museum closes at 3 p.m. for prep; enter at 105 W. Palace Ave.
Santa Fe Winter Indian Market
December 14 & 15, 2019
Shop exquisite Native American art at this festive downtown market. Featuring 150 artists with jewelry, pottery, paintings, and weavings, plus a silent auction, live music, and dance. Held December 14 (9 a.m.–5 p.m.) and 15 (10 a.m.–3 p.m.) at La Fonda on the Plaza.
Desert Chorale Winter Festival
December 14 – 22, 2019
This acclaimed choir performs carols and lullabies from Celtic lands in venues including United Church of Los Alamos, Immanuel Presbyterian in Albuquerque, Cristo Rey Church, and Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, December 14–22, 2019.
Las Posadas
December 8, 2019
The New Mexico History Museum presents this candlelit re-enactment of Mary and Joseph's journey. Join the procession around the Plaza starting at 5:30 p.m. on December 8, 2019, ending with cookies and cider at the Palace of the Governors. Dress warmly!
A Baroque Christmas
December 19 – 24, 2019
Santa Fe Pro Musica's 30+ year tradition returns to Loretto Chapel December 19–24, 2019. Featuring sopranos Clara Rottsolk and Marguerite Krull in beloved Baroque holiday repertoire.
Canyon Road Farolito Walk
December 24, 2019
Experience Santa Fe's iconic Christmas Eve tradition as Canyon Road glows with farolitos. Thousands stroll from the Plaza through historic neighborhoods in this magical, one-night spectacle on December 24, 2019.
Christmas Eve at Picuris Pueblo
December 24, 2019
At sundown, join the torchlit Procession of the Virgin at Picuris Pueblo to celebrate Northern New Mexico's Native traditions. Learn more about holiday events at Northern Pueblos.
New Year’s Eve on the Plaza
December 31, 2019
Ring in the new year on Santa Fe Plaza with live entertainment, a digital countdown, hot chocolate, biscochitos from the Kiwanis Club, and a banner for hopes and dreams. Check New Year's Eve details for more.
Discover December's magic in Santa Fe—filled with cheer and unforgettable memories. Book your getaway and explore our Deals and Specials to make it even more special.
