What To Do In Santa Fe In December

Okay, so you're thinking about Santa Fe in December? Excellent choice! You’re about to trade your usual holiday humdrum for something a little…spicier. Think Christmas lights with a side of chile, carols sung with a Southwestern twang, and snow-dusted adobe that looks like it came straight out of a postcard. Forget the same old mall Santa – you're about to enter a whole different holiday dimension.

Embrace the Chili-fied Christmas Spirit

First things first: prepare your taste buds. Santa Fe in December is less about gingerbread lattes and more about…well, everything with chile. Red, green, or "Christmas" (both), it's everywhere. It's like someone looked at the holiday season and thought, "Needs more kick!" And honestly? They're right.

You absolutely must try some traditional New Mexican posole. It's a hearty stew that'll warm you from your toes to your…well, you get the picture. Think of it as the ultimate comfort food after a day of exploring. And if you’re feeling brave, go for the green chile cheeseburger. It’s basically a religious experience disguised as a burger.

Then there are the biscochitos. These little anise-flavored cookies are the official state cookie, and they're like a tiny, delicious hug. Perfect with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate (maybe spiked with a little tequila – hey, it's vacation!).

Holiday Shopping...With a Southwestern Twist

Forget fighting the crowds at the big box stores. Santa Fe's shopping scene is unique. Think handcrafted jewelry, Native American art, and textiles so beautiful you'll want to wallpaper your entire house with them. The Plaza is the heart of the action, and during December, it's transformed into a winter wonderland (well, a Southwestern winter wonderland – don’t expect snowdrifts reaching the rooftops). The shops surrounding the Plaza are like little treasure chests, overflowing with one-of-a-kind gifts.

Canyon Road is another must-see. It's lined with art galleries, each more charming than the last. Even if you're not in the market for a multi-thousand-dollar painting, just strolling down Canyon Road is an experience in itself. It's like walking through a living art exhibit.

Pro tip: Don't be afraid to haggle! It's part of the culture. Just be polite and respectful, and you might just snag a sweet deal.

Farolitos: The Shining Stars of Santa Fe

One of the most magical things about Santa Fe in December is the farolitos. These are small paper bags filled with sand and a candle, and they line rooftops, sidewalks, and gardens throughout the city. They’re like little beacons of holiday cheer, guiding you through the night. Walking around Santa Fe after dark, surrounded by the soft glow of farolitos, is seriously enchanting. It's like being in a living Christmas card.

The Canyon Road Farolito Walk on Christmas Eve is a Santa Fe tradition. Thousands of people stroll down Canyon Road, admiring the farolitos and singing carols. It's crowded, yes, but it's also incredibly special. Think of it as a Christmas Eve flash mob, but with more candles and less coordinated dance moves.

A word of warning: parking can be a nightmare on Christmas Eve. Your best bet is to take a shuttle or just walk (wear comfortable shoes!). And be sure to dress warmly – it can get chilly!

Beyond the Plaza: Exploring Santa Fe's Hidden Gems

Santa Fe is more than just the Plaza and Canyon Road. Venture a little further afield and you'll discover some truly hidden gems. Meow Wolf, for example, is an immersive art experience that's…well, it's hard to describe. Imagine stepping into a psychedelic dreamscape, where everything is interactive and nothing is quite what it seems. It's like Alice in Wonderland, but with more lasers and less talking rabbits.

For a dose of culture, check out the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum. O'Keeffe lived and worked in New Mexico for many years, and her paintings capture the stark beauty of the landscape. Even if you're not an art aficionado, you'll appreciate the power and simplicity of her work. Plus, the museum is a nice, quiet escape from the holiday hustle and bustle.

If you're feeling adventurous, take a day trip to Taos. It's a charming little town about an hour north of Santa Fe, known for its ancient pueblo and stunning mountain views. The Taos Pueblo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States, and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's like stepping back in time.

Dealing With the Altitude (and Other Minor Mishaps)

Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room: the altitude. Santa Fe is high – really high. At over 7,000 feet above sea level, it can take a toll on your body, especially if you're coming from a lower elevation. The symptoms can range from mild headaches and fatigue to full-blown altitude sickness. It's like having a hangover without the fun part of drinking.

The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to hydrate. Drink lots of water (seriously, lots of water). Avoid alcohol and caffeine, at least for the first few days. And take it easy. Don't try to cram too much into your first day. Give your body time to adjust.

Another potential hazard: the sun. Even though it's cold, the sun is intense at high altitude. Wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days. And don't forget your sunglasses! You don't want to spend your vacation squinting.

And speaking of cold, December in Santa Fe can be chilly. Pack layers! You'll want a warm coat, hat, gloves, and scarf. And don't forget comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking.

Making the Most of Your Santa Fe Holiday

So, how do you make the most of your Santa Fe holiday? First, embrace the unexpected. Santa Fe is a city that's full of surprises. Be open to new experiences, try new foods, and talk to the locals. You never know what you might discover. It's like opening a box of chocolates – you never know what you're going to get (but hopefully it's delicious).

Second, slow down. Santa Fe is a place to relax and recharge. Don't try to see everything. Pick a few things that are important to you and focus on enjoying them. It's like savoring a fine wine – take your time and appreciate the nuances.

Finally, remember that it's all about the experience. Don't worry about taking the perfect Instagram photo or finding the perfect souvenir. Just focus on enjoying the moment. That's what Santa Fe is all about. Think of it as a digital detox with a side of enchiladas.

So, there you have it. Your guide to Santa Fe in December. It's a magical time of year, filled with warmth, beauty, and a whole lot of chile. Just be prepared for the altitude, pack your warmest clothes, and get ready for an adventure. You won't be disappointed. Now go forth and explore the land of enchantment!