Celebrating Artists | Holiday Art Market
Dear Friends,
If you are looking for a post-Thanksgiving activity that is equal parts thrilling and meditative, consider an extended tour of New Mexico’s stellar ski venues. From Taos Ski Valley to Ski Santa Fe, Sipapu to Red River and Pajarito – there are plenty of options for steep adventures, and they’re all on track to open soon.
A 40-minute drive from La Fonda, Ski Santa Fe is one of my favorites. Midweek, I can manage to take early morning meetings in town, then slip up to the mountain for afternoon turns in fresh powder. I’m always blown away by how mesmerizing the City Different looks from the 12,075-foot summit, reminding me to take count of life’s natural pleasures. Clean, crisp air, towering pines, snow covered cliffs and a view that spans for miles replaces any lingering holiday anxiety with a jolt of pure beauty. It’s the best kind of therapy!
At La Fonda, we’re preparing for another festive holiday season that includes the construction of our famous gingerbread house. Each year our talented culinary crew, led by Chef Lane Warner, constructs a magical 2.5 foot-long and 2.5-foot-wide replica adobe gingerbread hotel that evokes our spirit of hospitality and the winter wonder of the region. The tradition is especially endearing – and pulls at our heartstrings – after the passing of our dear colleague, Gil Mesa who led this project for many years as well as carved our miraculous ice carvings. Gil’s special touches are everlasting, from glazed sugar-painted windows, stiff royal icing, and traditional farolitos illuminated with LED lights, the gorgeous display honors his legacy.
Dazzled with Christmas-inspired string lights, the Santa Fe Plaza becomes the central hub for winter cheer. Explore the light display on your way to our first annual holiday winter market taking place on our mezzanine December 5, 6 and 7th from 11am – 7pm. A way to demonstrate support to our incredibly talented artist-in-residents that visit our lobby throughout the year, this market affords artisans the opportunity to showcase their work commission-free. Our guests love the chance to meet with makers and purchase unique, hand-crafted goods. All are welcome!
And, to really bring on the holiday cheer, we’re thrilled to welcome Ricardo Caté and his comedy crew to the Santa Fe Room for a comedy show for a cause. Join us on Friday, December 5th at 7pm. I’ve heard his act is very funny! Entrance to the event is one unwrapped gift for a local child in need. It’s a heartfelt way to support the giving season. I hope to see you there!
Happy Holidays!
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 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 is holding their first ever sale this holiday season! As a thank you to their special clients for a fantastic year, Gemsong is offering 20% off storewide during the pre-Christmas season. Stop by before December 13th to take advantage of these holiday savings!
Happy Holidays!
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
