FALL FOR SANTA FE
Dear Friends,
I recently returned from a trip to Scandinavia where I adopted a technique we should all rally behind: Skogsbad/Forest Bath. It’s a sensory escape into nature that affords you the opportunity to soak in the quiet rustle of leaves, the singsong chirping of birds and the scents of earthy moss. With the Santa Fe National Forest nearly right at our doorstep, we’re blessed with easy access to nature – always open for quiet reflection and reminding us that we are part of its rich mystery and wonder. Just as the expansive network of aspen roots is all connected, so too is humanity.
At Ski Santa Fe (I’ve already purchased my season pass!), ride the quad lift from the base to the top and take in sweeping views of the Rio Grande Valley, distant mesas and the rugged Jemez Mountains, while surrounded by a vibrant display of autumn colors. It’s a spectacular way to mark the change of seasons and get ready for a (hopefully!) snowy winter ahead.
This month, as we celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, I’m thrilled to share some of the recently acquired Indigenous works from the 2026 Santa Fe Indian Market. The incredible art of Craig George (Diné), Marla Allison (Laguna Pueblo), Monty Little (Diné), Jaime Chavez (Tarahumara), Sheldon Harvey (Diné), Jennifer Hicks (Chickasaw Nation) and Derayna DeClay (White Mountain Apache) are now officially part of our expanding collection of contemporary Native American art. The new Craig George piece is displayed prominently in our expanded lobby, along with the gorgeous, bold red, pink and black painting inspired by the Northern Cheyenne acclaimed artist, Jordan Ann Craig – make sure to check them out next time you visit! And of course, we feature original, contemporary art in each guest room, making a stay at La Fonda an immersive art experience. You never quite know whose work you will discover. Our museum-caliber collection is truly unique and amplifies why we are celebrated as a sought-after art-destination.
Where the Mind Keels, Sheldon Harvey
The Market Gathering, Craig George
Series 4, Jennifer Hicks
We’ll close out the month with Santa Fe’s community-wide Día de los Muertos celebration on the Plaza. While you’re here, stop by La Fonda to see our beautiful lobby ofrenda, created in remembrance of loved ones, dear friends and those who have touched our community—and feel free to add your own remembrance. It’s a meaningful tradition that brings us together to honor those who came before us and celebrate the memories and connections that live on.
Finally, it’s not too late to grab your tickets to our 10th Anniversary Fred Harvey Foodie Dinner. Celebrate Fred Harvey and the Harvey Girls with an evening inspired by the flavors, stories and traditions that helped shape dining along the Santa Fe Railway. Purchase tickets here.
Wishing you a beautiful autumn,
Jenny
Jennifer Kimball
Ambassador and Board Chair Emerita
La Fonda on the Plaza
DETOURS AT LA FONDA
Detours features one of the largest selections of Jan Barboglio goods. Stop by the gift shop to discover Jan’s hand-crafted metal and glass home goods.
PIÑON COURT BY LA FONDA
Join us at The Bistro & Lounge at Piñon Court for a special menu showcasing fresh flavors, thoughtful ingredients, and the warm hospitality that defines our sister property. Don’t miss Happy Hour, 4-6pm daily.
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.
Learn about the history of turquoise through Gemsong’s “Turquoise 101 Tour” guided by Peter Vajda, an industry icon and a unique resource in Santa Fe, who:
- Led the jewelry and gemstone trades for over six decades
- Operated on every level of trade from mining to retail
- Is a world recognized expert in colored gems, has lectured widely and advised gemstone laboratories around the globe
- Wrote definitions concerning the proper disclosure and sales of turquoise and other gems, definitions related to authentic Native American jewelry and other Native American Arts and Crafts for both state and federal laws (testifying before the US Congress twice)
- Was intermittently the largest international turquoise dealer during his career (acquiring over 10 billion carats of turquoise from virtually every iconic turquoise mine in the world)
- Specializes in collectable American Turquoise and Native American Jewelry
- Served as a board member for the New Mexico Better Business Bureau and a member of Ethical Trade Organization
- Featured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal
To book a tour, inquire at the gallery or call:
505.819.7227 or 505.988.5536
EXPLORE THE SHOPS
