8 Compelling Reasons to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Santa Fe
Say “Prospero Año Nuevo” the Santa Fe way to guarantee a truly Happy New Year in 2017! As Ella Fitzgerald croons in her holiday classic, “What are you doing New Year’s Eve?” From world-class musical performances and immersive art like ‘Galactic Jungles’ to stunning illuminations, Santa Fe offers something for everyone. Discover eight unforgettable ways to ring in the New Year in The City Different.
New Year's Eve on the Plaza
Now in its second year, NYE on the Plaza is a must-do! (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)
Santa Fe ushers in 2017 on the historic Downtown Plaza. Gather family and friends for festivities starting at 9:30 p.m., featuring bonfires, hot chocolate, and live music from Sol Fire and Nosotros. At midnight, celebrate with the uplifting raise of the Zia symbol—Santa Fe raises the ball while others drop it—capped by spectacular fireworks.
Family Fun at GLOW
Santa Fe lights up with the return of GLOW. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe Botanical Garden)
Experience a family-friendly “children’s” New Year’s Eve at the Santa Fe Botanical Garden’s GLOW. This magical holiday lighting display features thousands of lights across the gardens, including the new Ojos y Manos section. Enjoy beverages by the fire, live music, gourmet food, and a special laser light show—perfect for all ages.
A Santa Fe Tradition: New Year’s Eve Gala at Vanessie
Doug Montgomery entertaining at Vanessie for 34 years. (Photo courtesy of Vanessie)
For 34 years, Vanessie Santa Fe has served award-winning cuisine and hosted legendary New Year’s Eve Galas. Music from 7:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. features pianist Doug Montgomery and the Brandon James & James Clark duo. Savor dinner in the dining room, then indulge in the dessert buffet in Santa Fe’s premier piano bar. Reserve early.
Meow Wolf: NYE Style
It’s not New Year’s Eve without a Meow Wolf party! (Photo courtesy of FX Cordero)
Ring in 2017 at Meow Wolf's Galactic Jungle: NYE 2017 at the Shellaberger Tennis Center (1600 St. Michaels Drive). From 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., immerse yourself in superb sound, lighting, art, and top DJs amid hundreds of revelers. Early bird tickets: $25 (21+ event). Meow Wolf’s biggest bash yet!
Dance the Night Away at Skylight
The DJs at Skylight keep you dancing all night! (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)
Dance until 1:30 a.m. at Santa Fe’s hottest spot, Skylight. Enjoy live music, dinner, and DJs spinning club favorites in three rooms. Happy hour prices on premium drinks from 9:00-11:00 p.m. All ages welcome until 10:00 p.m.—view the action from the second-floor “Skylab.”
New Year’s Eve Dinners Abound
New Year’s Eve dinner in Santa Fe? Absolutely! (Photo courtesy of Anasazi Restaurant)
Santa Fe ranks among America’s Best Food Cities per Conde Nast Traveler readers. Local chefs shine on NYE with exquisite specials. For your getaway, book at gems like La Fonda, Osteria d’Assisi, Anasazi Restaurant, La Casa Sena, or SantaCafe. Reserve now.
Lensic New Year’s Eve Orchestra Concert
Ring in the New Year with Beethoven’s Ninth! (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)
Celebrate grandly with Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, an anthem for humanity, at the New Year's Eve Concert at The Lensic Performing Arts Center, starting at 5:00 p.m.
Dress warmly and gather loved ones to bid farewell to 2016 Santa Fe-style. Order your Santa Fe travel guide and check Deals and Specials for more inspiration!
