Santa Fe's top holiday events: 8 festive celebrations you don't want to miss

From tree lightings to musical performances, Santa Fe transforms into a holiday wonderland this December.

Whether you're browsing local crafts at the Farolito Tree Lighting & Holiday Market, enjoying traditional celebrations like Las Posadas or soaking in the magic of The Nutcracker by the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, there’s something for everyone.

Learn more about each event and their costs below:

Farolito Tree Lighting & Holiday Market

Experience the holiday warmth at Bishop’s Lodge Plaza, where you can explore a holiday market featuring local vendors and a Christmas tree. The event takes place Dec. 6, from 1 to 6 p.m. The holiday market will be held at the Mezzanine, and the tree lighting will begin at 6 p.m. on the plaza. This event is open to the public, and no RSVP is required.

Location: 1297 Bishop’s Lodge Rd., Santa Fe

Holidays at the Palace

This free holiday event has been a Santa Fe community tradition since 1982. Held at the historic Palace of the Governors, it brings friends and families together to celebrate the magic of the season. Attendees can enjoy live performances of holiday classics by local musicians, photo opportunities with Santa Claus, warm cider and cookies and the chance to donate non-perishable food items to support those in need. The event runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 13.

Location: 113 Lincoln Ave., Santa Fe

Bach Festival—A Baroque Christmas

This holiday concert, presented by Santa Fe Pro Musica, will take place at the St. Francis Auditorium at the New Mexico Museum of Art. Running from Dec. 21 to Dec. 23, each performance is 75 minutes long with no intermission and begins at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $32 to $106, depending on seating. The Santa Fe Pro Musica Bach Ensemble will perform, featuring Stephen Redfield (violin and leader), Clara Rottsolk (soprano), and Brian Shaw (natural trumpet).

Location: 107 W Palace Ave, Santa Fe

Las Posadas at the Palace of the Governors

While the annual Farolito display is a cherished tradition in Santa Fe, another beloved event at the Palace of the Governors is Las Posadas. This one-night-only re-enactment of the Holy Family's search for lodging will take place on Dec. 11 at 5:30 p.m. Originating in Spain as a nine-day religious observance from Dec. 16 to Dec. 24, this tradition is also common in Northern New Mexico towns. Santa Fe's one-night reenactment began in the 1970s as a neighborhood campaign against development and has since evolved into an annual celebration.

Location: 113 Lincoln Ave., Santa Fe

La Luz de las Noches 2024

Celebrate the holidays at the Santa Fe Botanical Garden during the La Luz de las Noches event. Enjoy festive beverages as you stroll along the farolito-lined garden pathways illuminated by dazzling holiday lights. Follow the lights to the stage, where nightly musical performances await. Sweet and savory treats will be available for purchase throughout the garden, and As Above So Below Distillery will serve beverages each evening. The event runs from Dec. 19 to Dec. 31, with special appearances by Santa Claus and his carolers from Dec. 20 to Dec. 23. The garden will be closed on Dec. 24 and 25. Visit anytime from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. to experience this enchanting holiday celebration.

Location: 715 Camino Lej, Santa Fe

The Nutcracker

Experience the magic of The Nutcracker presented by Aspen Santa Fe Ballet. Four performances will be held at the Lensic Performing Arts Center on Dec. 14 and 15. Showtimes are at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 14, and 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Dec. 15. This unforgettable performance features a fresh interpretation of the holiday classic, incorporating traditional dances from around the world. Tickets range from $56 to $114, with limited availability, so be sure to secure yours soon.

Location: Lensic Performing Arts Center, 211 W. San Francisco St., Santa Fe

Olive Rush Family Craft

Bring the family together for a fun-filled holiday craft event at the Olive Rush Studio. Join on Dec. 8 or Dec. 15 from 1 to 3 p.m. to create handmade gifts, decorations, and snacks. Participants will be guided by Beverly Weiler, a fabric artist and retired schoolteacher who taught Sunday school at the studio for many years. To attend, RSVP and make a minimum $5 donation per family. This event is perfect for children, parents, grandparents and caregivers looking to share creative holiday memories.

Location: 630 Canyon Road, Santa Fe, NM 87501

The Santa Fe Symphony: Winter Showcase

Experience the holiday spirit at the Youth Program Winter Showcase, presented by the Santa Fe Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. The concert takes place on Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m. and runs for 60 minutes with no intermission. Featured performances include the Running Start Beginning Orchestra, Prelude String Orchestra and Mariachi Citlali. Tickets are $15, and the event will be held in the Muñoz Waxman Gallery at the Center for Contemporary Arts (CCA).

Location: 211 W. San Francisco St., Santa Fe, NM 87501