2011 Holidays in Santa Fe

Like so many things in Santa Fe, the holidays are celebrated just a little differently in this old city. The combination of Western, Hispanic, and Native American traditions blend into a celebration not duplicated anywhere else. Sunny days and cold nights, snow covered adobe, and the savory fare of the season add to the festive atmosphere that takes over the entire town. What follows is just a sampling of the holiday events taking place.

Ski Santa Fe. Santa Fe's ski area, just 30 minutes from downtown, opens on Thanksgiving, weather permitting. Expect plenty of Rocky Mountain powder with seven chairlifts, 73 named trails, and lots of fun for skiers and boarders of all ages and abilities. www.skisantafe.com

Winter Indian Market. This is a smaller version of the popular summer market featuring 175 Native American artists selling their handmade work. There is also music, storytelling and food. November 26-28, Santa Fe Community Convention Center. www.swaia.org

Winter Spanish Market. Spanish Colonial arts are featured at this market, which is also a smaller version of the summer event. There are carvings, paintings, textiles, silver, and tinwork with many small pieces, like Christmas tree decorations that make perfect gifts. Special events begin November 30 with the market itself taking place December 4-5, Santa Fe Community Convention Center. www.spanishcolonial.org

Christmas at the Palace. Celebrate the season in one of the oldest buildings in the United States, the Palace of the Governors. Kids love this free event with hot cider, music, entertainment, and the appearance of Mr. and Mrs. Claus. December 10. www.nmhistorymuseum.org

Las Posadas. This traditional Spanish outdoor play on the Plaza tells the story of Mary and Joseph searching for a room on Christmas Eve. It begins with a candlelight procession and audience members are encouraged to participate. Stay for cookies and carols at the Palace of the Governors. www.nmhistorymuseum.org

Noche Bueno. Midnight mass on Christmas Eve at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi commemorates a folk story about the animals in the manger on Christmas Eve. According to the story, they were dismayed that no humans came to see the Christ Child, so one old rooster flew to a high place and announced the birth for all the world to hear.

Farolitos. These are candles in paper bags, humble materials that become magical amber lights. Hundreds of them will line streets, sidewalks, steps, and roofs. There are 1,000 of them on the Plaza on Christmas Eve and a procession to a spectacular view of the city decked in holiday light from the hilltop Cross of the Martyrs. www.santafe.org

Music. There is a wealth of holiday music in Santa Fe. Look for concerts by New Mexico Pro Coro, Musica da Camera, Santa Fe Concert Association, Santa Fe Desert Chorale, Santa Fe Symphony, Santa Fe Women's Ensemble, and more. Check the calendar at www.santafe.org for times and locations.

Native American Dances. Many ceremonial dances are held at the Native American pueblos near Santa Fe during the holiday season. These feature elaborate traditional garments and are beautiful to watch. Winter dances often honor animals, such as the deer dance at Taos Pueblo. There are sundown torchlight processions of the Virgin on Christmas Eve at Picuris, Nambe, and Okay Owingeh Pueblos. Matachinas dances with their dramatic headdresses take place on Christmas Day at Picuris, Okay Owingeh, Santa Clara, and San Ildefonso Pueblos. There is a turtle dance on December 26 at Okay Owingeh Pueblo and Holy Innocents and children's dances at Picuris and Santa Clara Pueblos on December 28. New Years Day and the days following are also days for dances marking changes in tribal governments. Dances usually happen on set days, but not at set times. Be prepared to wait patiently. It is important to remember that dances are religious in nature and to behave respectfully. Checking ahead is advised. www.indianpueblo.org.

AND DON'T MISS........

Jan 27-Feb 5. Winter Fiesta. Following a great debut last year, this event promises to be bigger and more successful in its second year. Buy a pass and get discounts or free admission to all kinds of events, outdoor adventure, dining, concerts, and more.