Giving Season
Dear Friends,
The Sangre de Cristo Mountains are finally capped with snow, and those vibrant yellow and orange aspen leaves have dropped in preparation for winter. The turning seasons help guide us into an uncharted future ahead, and the power of nature ensures we have steady footing as we step into the giving season.
This November, we invite you to be part of our giving tradition; join us as La Fonda Foundation launches an important partnership with Homewise, Santa Fe’s housing focused nonprofit. This new initiative will help over 50 families employed in the hospitality industry navigate their path to home ownership by providing up to $10,000 in downpayment assistance. With the cost of living becoming unsustainable for so many, this powerful program enhances housing security and creates a sense of ease for the folks that keep hospitality in New Mexico humming. Learn more here.
There’s one gentleman whose commitment to mentorship, preservation and operational efficiency was recognized last month at the Historic Hotels of America Excellence Awards: the talented and uber-focused, Rik Blyth! At the helm of La Fonda for the past eight years, Rik has been an integral part of our steadfast success. Navigating challenges such as the COVID crisis with compassion and driving forth positive change through our innovative work-based-learning internship program, Rik’s efforts on the hospitality front did not go unrecognized by worldwide industry leaders. Join me in congratulating our President, Rik Blyth on his distinct recognition as Hotelier of the Year 2025! I’m incredibly grateful for the time Rik has been part of La Fonda’s community. A generous leader and an agent for positive change, he is truly a hotelier worth his weight in gold!
I am lucky to be spending this giving season in Bhutan, a truly hospitable country. The hospitality industry is elevated in a place that prioritizes Gross National Happiness (GNH) over Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – this development philosophy balances economic, cultural, environmental and good governance goals to create a peaceful and welcoming environment for both residents and visitors. I encourage more institutions, cities and governments to prioritize happiness above profits.
In fact, the people and places I’ve encountered have many similarities with New Mexico. It’s amazing to see a chile culture on par with The Land of Enchantment and discover Indigenous dances and cultures that closely align with our Pueblos. From red chile ristras, rugged mountains, chile harvests and happiness galore – Bhutan is a magical place!
Wishing you and yours a Thanksgiving filled with reflection, kindness, community and an abundance local fixings!
With gratitude,
Jenny
Jenny Kimball
Ambassador and Board Chair Emerita
La Fonda on the Plaza
DETOURS AT LA FONDA
This month we’re thrilled to welcome back the incredibly talented artist, Sandy Vaillancourt to La Fonda’s lobby. Please stop by to meet Sandy and pick up one-of-a-kind holiday gifts November 26 – December 1. If you can’t make it to the hotel this month, don’t worry! Sandy returns as a visiting artist December 25- January 1 2026.
PIÑON COURT BY LA FONDA
Piñon Court by La Fonda offers a fresh take on Southwestern hospitality—just steps from Santa Fe’s historic Plaza. It’s the perfect destination to book intimate holiday parties and retreats. Our newly reimagined hotel blends classic New Mexico charm with modern comfort, offering thoughtfully updated guest rooms, locally inspired design, and easy access to the heart of the city. Whether you’re here for art, cuisine, or quiet retreat, Piñon Court is your perfect home base in Santa Fe.
LA PLAZUELA
Celebrate the holidays at La Fonda on the Plaza with festive seasonal menus, featuring classic New Mexican flavors and chef-inspired holiday dishes.
LA FIESTA LOUNGE
Whether you’re warming up after a day of holiday shopping or celebrating the season with friends, La Fiesta Lounge is the place to be in December. Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with festive cheer, Southwestern flavors, and great local music.
CYNDE ROOF FINE ART
Cynde Roof
105 Old Santa Fe Trail
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501
505-365-2758
GEMSONG GALLERY
Discover Santa Fe’s largest collection of turquoise at Gemsong Gallery, next to Detours at La Fonda.
Gemsong recently launched the Turquoise, Mineral & Gem Museum located just blocks from the hotel. Owner, Peter Vajda is able to share his rich knowledge with the public through this highly curated space. He is an international colored gemstone expert and helped write definitions dealing with gem material use concerning Native American jewelry authenticity for State and Federal laws.
To book a tour, inquire at the gallery or call:
505.819.7227 or 505.988.5536
EXPLORE THE SHOPS
HOLIDAY ART MARKET AT LA FONDA
