Santa Fe Holidays: Unique Festive Traditions and Magical Events in the City Different
Santa Fe, the City Different, blends rich historic traditions with snowy mountain landscapes, world-renowned cuisine, and vibrant performing arts for an unforgettable holiday season. Under bright blue skies and crisp air, discover a treasure trove of annual celebrations that capture the unique spirit of Santa Fe holidays.
Santa Fe Plaza Tree Lighting
Join locals and visitors for hot chocolate, caroling, and festive lights illuminating the historic Downtown Plaza. The evening sparks to life with entertainment and a special visit from Santa Claus. The annual Tree Lighting ceremony typically occurs the Saturday after Thanksgiving at 6 p.m.
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Experience the magic with this clip from a past Santa Fe Tree Lighting event.
Santa Fe Film Festival
For over two decades, the Santa Fe Film Festival has showcased independent cinema, drawing filmmakers, industry leaders, and audiences worldwide. Held annually in early December, it's the ideal backdrop in Santa Fe's artistic setting to celebrate film.
The Santa Fe Film Festival, founded in 1999. (Photo courtesy of Palace of the Governors Photo Archives)
Lighting of the Menorah
The Genoveva Chavez Center and Chabad Jewish Community Center host the annual menorah lighting on the Downtown Plaza. This 90-minute event, starting at 3 p.m. on the first night of Hanukkah, features speakers, refreshments, and entertainment.
The Chanukah menorah (chanukiah) is lit each of the eight nights of Hanukkah.Christmas at the Palace
Housed in the Palace of the Governors—the oldest continuously operating public building in the U.S.—this event honors Pueblo and Spanish holiday traditions. Enjoy hot cider, music, and merriment on the Santa Fe Plaza, typically December 11-13 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Enter via 105 W. Palace Ave.
Discover holiday magic at the Palace. (Photo courtesy of Hannah Albeck)Las Posadas
Hosted by the New Mexico History Museum, this candlelit procession re-enacts Mary and Joseph's search for shelter. Follow the couple around the Plaza, boo playful devils, and end with cookies and cider at the Palace of the Governors. Dress warmly for this cherished tradition.
Devilish fun at Las Posadas on the Santa Fe Plaza. (Photo courtesy of New Mexico History Museum)
Winter Solstice Festival
The Santa Fe Children's Museum hosts a family-friendly celebration of the longest night with drumming, bonfires, a farolito labyrinth, train exhibits, storytelling, and hot chocolate.
Walk the farolito labyrinth at the Santa Fe Children's Museum. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe Children's Museum)Glow at the Santa Fe Botanical Garden
This family event features illuminated domes, a tunnel of lights, festive drinks, live entertainment, and Santa photos. Bundle up for this enchanting holiday tradition.
Immerse in the glow at Santa Fe Botanical Garden. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe Botanical Garden)Canyon Road Farolito Walk
Santa Fe's iconic tradition lights up December 24 with thousands of farolitos (paper-bag lanterns) lining streets and luminaria bonfires warming the way. Stroll hand-in-hand amid carols, then warm up at nearby restaurants. Wear comfortable shoes and layers.
Farolitos illuminate Canyon Road and neighborhoods.
Wise Fool Holiday Circus Cabaret
Delight in puppetry and circus acts at Wise Fool New Mexico's family cabaret, typically December 27 at 4 p.m.
Holiday circus cabaret at Wise Fool New Mexico. (Photo courtesy of Wise Fool New Mexico)
New Year's Eve on the Plaza
Ring in the New Year with live music from Lumbre del Sol, food trucks, hot drinks, and a countdown. Check SantaFe.org for details.
Farolitos light up New Year's Eve on the Plaza. (Photo courtesy of Michael Menefee)
Experience Santa Fe's holidays—brimming with magic, tradition, and affordability. Download the official Santa Fe travel guide and plan your visit to create lasting memories.
