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Let’s Talk Hispanic Heritage

What’s in a culture? It’s the people and the traditions, but most importantly it’s recognizing the heritage and history behind it. This month is National Hispanic Heritage Month and we wanted to celebrate with a little bit of history here.

From the ancient ruins found in the Taos Valley, history indicates that people had been living there since nearly 1000 years ago. Further exploration in the area spans back more than 500 years ago further showcasing that the lifestyle and customs had largely been that of Spanish origin. Taos itself was first explored in 1540 by Hernan Alvarado, a captain to Coronado who searched for the “seven cities of gold” and believed he found it with the adobe clay that glitters in the sun. Today, Taos Pueblo, a settlement dating back generations, is made entirely of that adobe clay and open to the public for a small entrance fee.

If you’re willing to drive a bit, Albuquerque holds the National Hispanic Cultural Center. This 16-acre center holds an art museum, performing arts complex, education center, history and literary arts building, outdoor patios and plazuelas, a restaurant and a gift shop for you to take a little piece of heritage home with you. The center looks to showcase the history through a mix of traditional and contemporary events that showcase art, music, dance, theatre, lectures and family events. There’s something for everyone looking to explore the Hispanic culture.

This month, we hope you take a moment to learn and experience the Hispanic history, culture, and maybe even venture to check out our lovely Taos Pueblo or the National Hispanic Cultural Center. After all, the best adventure is the one into history.

Oh, Summer!

While we can all agree that winter can be fun, summertime here is really where we shine. From outdoor activities to fun events, there is everything to soak up the rays and entertain locals and travelers alike. Read up on our go-to events happening below!

 

Movies on the Green

Now through Aug. 7

Family-friendly, this is perfect for those looking for a little nostalgia with the Goonies or a newer film such as Mary Poppins Returns. Starting at 7 these features will be shown at Kit Carson Park and concessions will be available. So grab a blanket, and a pillow and enjoy this night under the stars with the big screen.

 

Taos Plaza Live

Now through the end of August

Every Thursday evening starting at 6 PM in the Historic Taos Plaza there will be featured music for all those looking for a good tune and time. The bands will range from Rock, country, folk, bluegrass, blues, swing and ranchero. Come ready to dance, watch and enjoy!

 

Taos Vortex 2019

August 16 – 18, 2019

Featuring 35 artists, this entertainment group wants to show Taos new realms of experience through an immersive three-day event of live music, DJs, Installation art and performances. There will be single day passes as well as the full 3 day passes available to purchase.

The musical focal points will happen on two stages, The Spire and The Glade. The Spire stage is a citadel to inspire awe and wonder, a stage created for performers to play for their fans. The Glade is a meadow for people to hang out in and be a part of the show, offering a casual and intimate habitat.

 

Taos Pride

August 1 – 3, 2019

Three-day community event to celebrate diversity, increase awareness, and provide a safe place to be exactly who you are! After launching 8 years ago by local Robert Quintana, it has taken on the notoriety of being one big fabulous party. Come celebrate all that makes us unique, and sharing the belief that love is love.

 

Dog Days of Summer

August 2019

Focusing on benefitting Stray Hearts Animal Shelter, this concert is back for its 10th annual year. It will feature top-notch talent locally and from farther away, this is sure to be a hit with a cause!

 

Music From Angel Fire

August 16 – 31st, 2019

Now celebrating their 36th season, this will showcase work from world-renowned artists who will perform an impressive array of works from great classical, romantic, baroque and contemporary masters.

 

Summer Wine Festival

August 2019

Wine tastings, food, hiking, live music and more will fill your weekend in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains! This will showcase the local wine-makers and provide plenty of entertainment (and drink) for travelers to cool down on a hot day.

 

Glam Trash Fashion Show

August 31st, 2019

When you’ve got a conscious heart and a passion for style what do you get? The Glam Trash Fashion Show combines art, recycling and fashion into a glamtastic all ages non-profit annual event.”

 

Michael Hearne’s Big Barn Dance

September 5 – 7, 2019

Going on its 17th year running, this festival has been known to host the big names as well as the up and coming ones. This will feature the best of Americana, Folk, Bluegrass, Singer-Songwriter and many more. Grab your boots, and an ear, and come check out the best in the country singing business.

 

The Paseo Festival

September 13 – 14, 2019

For the art lovers out there, this one is for you! Local and visiting artists present experiential and participatory installations that harness art, science and technology for multi-sensory experiences. Thought-provoking installations centered around “Connections” will allow viewers to take a seat in the eye of the artist.

 

Taos Fall Arts Festival

September 20 – 29, 2019

Over forty years ago a group of artists and gallerists fell in love with the idea of showcasing what Taos and the arts community had within it, and we’re sure happy they did. With a blend of cultures and mediums, the artists excite both locals and visitors with the opportunity to see the best Taos has to offer for both established artists as well as the up and coming ones.

 

 

On the Road Again

Whether you’re stopping for a night or a week, chances are you’re on the road. For those of our travelers who have a destination yet to be determined, take a cue from our road trip guide around New Mexico. All of these locations are a short day trip starting at our lovely town, Taos.

Taos

Congrats, you’re here! Known for our historic adobe buildings and beautiful views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the backdrop it’s hard not to fall in love with our artistic culture and adventuresome spirit. Welcome!

Sante Fe

About an hour and a half drive from Taos, and the capital of New Mexico, this town is located in the Sangre De Cristo foothills. The Georgia O’keeffe Museum is located here, featuring over 3,000 works by her. Filled with adobe landmarks all trailing back to the main Plaza, this city holds a lot of history just waiting to be explored.

Four Corners Monument

This one is a bit of a longer drive at about four hours, but how many times can you say you’ve been in four places at once? This monument not only lets it happen by being the corner to four states all at once. Stop on by to fulfill that bucket list check-off.

Albuquerque

As New Mexico’s largest city it has grown through the years and it’s only two and a half hours away. It has two distinct areas to the town contrasting one another; Old Town and the more modern Downtown. The contrast is visible from building style as well as the cityscape. Some of the fun activities to do here include the Sandia Peak Tramway which is the longest aerial tramway in the US, the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum and a rattlesnake museum.

Roswell

Aliens, flying saucers and artifacts, oh my! At four and a half hours away, Roswell has a namesake that everyone in the USA recognizes as the site of an alleged 1947 UFO crash. The International UFO Museum and Research Center is located here furthering the question we all wonder to ourselves; do aliens exist?

Carlsbad

A little bit longer of a drive here at about 6 hours, but definitely worth the trek. Carlsbad Caverns National Park has more than 100 caves in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico that hold stalactites and stalagmites throughout. Great for those interested in hiking, nature and geology.

Continental Divide

Calling all hikers, bikers, horse riders and adventurers! Going straight through New Mexico, the trail follows the Continental Divide of the Americas along the Rocky Mountains. For different hiking maps and guides click here.

So with whatever stops you may choose, we hope you find the adventure you’re looking for!

Nurse the Ch’i

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of summer travel and always looking for the next adventure, it’s easy to ignore the mind and body. So we created a list of places in Taos that will help you rejuvenate that inner and outer chi so you can hop back to your life-adventure.

Ojo Caliente:

If you’re looking for a dip into some natural hot springs, mud bath or maybe a spa service to go with it, Ojo Caliente is your place. Featuring private and public soaks along with a variety of spa offerings, this is perfect for the adventurer who wants to relax post-hike or yoga.

“We offer a blend of activities that celebrate the waters, the land and the culture, to soothe both body and soul. Take an exhilarating trek through hundreds of acres of hiking and biking trails and explore the rich heritage of Northern New Mexico. Enjoy the benefits of yoga classes that promote flexibility and relaxation.”

Auromesa

Auromesa is tucked away off of the well-beat Taos path offering visitors seeking Ayurvedic practices in a tranquil setting. They offer teachings and insight into Ayurvedic medicine along with massages and yoga classes.

“Our Ayurvedic practitioner works to balance the doshic imbalance (imbalance in the body “humors” or characteristics). She may offer the detoxification program known as panchakarma (five detoxification therapies), as well as nutrition and lifestyle guidance, and recommendations of Ayurvedic natural herbs. Through her knowledge of the science of Ayurveda, she can assist a client in setting up daily routines (dinacharya) that can bring about the desired balance to release stress and help to ward off dis-ease.”

The Living Spa

This spa offers everything from yoga and Soul’s Blueprint (astrology) to scrubs, hydrotherapy and multi-level spa treatments for you to choose from.

One of their main signature services is the Sacred Staurolite which starts with dry brushing, moves to a detoxifying turquoise mud wrap and face mask and then finishes off with a reflexology massage under the sacred indigenous Staurolite stones of Taus. They have a large list of treatments available.

“The Living Spa is an eco-conscious, world-class rejuvenation center at the heart of El Monte Sagrado. Prepare to be pampered by professional therapists focused on your health and healing.”

Taos Spa & Tennis Club

Focusing on massage and body rejuvenation, the Taos Spa & Tennis Club offers services to feel relaxed and complete. Included in each massage is free use of their sports facility the day of.

“Offers a menu of massage therapies and treatment ranging from deep tissue sports massage to luxurious treatments incorporating exotic aromas, water heated stones and deeply relaxing techniques.”

Some of the massages include the Taos Mountain Bliss that is done in a Swedish style, Deep Tissue that targets serious muscle and stress relief, Foot Reflexology, Canyon Stone which incorporates warm oil and warm black river stones and the massage that combines them all is the High Desert Mystique.

About That Breakfast

It’s Taos and we know there’s so much to explore. That’s why we’ve developed a hearty, homemade and complimentary hot breakfast buffet to help power you through your day of adventure.

Aside from an assortment of bagels, pastries and cereals, we feature an extensive hot bar boasting local Southwestern flavors. We often hear a lot of  “mmm mmms” from the breakfast room and wonder what it’s all about?! Well from the feedback we got and clearly what we’ve read on TripAdvisor, the star of the morning menu is our savory, home-made breakfast burritos. 

But what makes them so special you ask? Well that’s for us to know and you to…enjoy! (hint, home-made green chile sauce) Check out a few past reviews:

“The complementary breakfast is AMAZING!!! Especially the burritos!! This place is a must and when we return, there will be no question about where we will be staying!” sdolson04

“The best part of this was the complimentary hot breakfast. A lot more options that your typical complimentary breakfast. I immediately focused on the homemade breakfast burritos. Those were a total standout, especially when topped with the house-made green chile sauce. Mmm, I can still taste these.” Lucy S

“Breakfast had a delightful Southwestern flair with tortillas, pinto beans, and browned onions and pepper – all the fixings for a Breakfast Burrito.” Culture45551506515

“The homemade breakfast is to die for. Breakfast burritos, roasted potatoes, green chile along with beans and the other usual fare fills you up for a great day of hiking or shopping!” Chris L

So next time your wanderlust brings you to Taos, reserve a stay with us and be prepared for your most important meal of the day to wow you.

Have No Compass

While perusing our website or Instagram feed, you may have noticed the phrase “Have No Compass.” On a few occasions, we’ve been asked what that phrase means.

Well, for anyone that has ever been to Taos before, you know what a special place it really is. Our colorful community is a mecca for everything arts and culture – being a shine to Southwestern style. So many visitors unintentionally find their way to our front doors, and say “this place is so cute, do have any rooms available?” After offering them a fresh baked cookie, we chat about their travels and welcome them to Taos!

Here’s what we’ve gathered: whether they were on a simple day trip from Santa Fe or taking part in an ambitious road trip of the Southwest, there’s one thing these visitors all have in common – the unique desire for wanderlust in their lives. Those that proudly wander with no real intention and no final destination. There’s no better place than Taos to do just that.

This makes us believe that we’re a story of the wanderer, the curious traveler and the adventurer. We proudly offer accommodations to those that have no particular direction but absolutely fall in love with our charming little town.

We welcome you to switch off your GPS, tuck away that compass and explore everything Taos has to offer.

Just Eat It!

Popular online dining resource Eater just made your trip to El Pueblo Lodge even more tasty. This month Eater released “The Essential Restaurants in Taos, New Mexico,” and it’s the perfect go-to guide for dining your way through Taos on your next visit. So, who made the sweet and savory cut? Here are the highlights:

The Love Apple

theloveapple.net

Why visit? Seasonal and locally grown ingredients punctuate the often-changing menu. Don’t miss the baked tamale with Oaxacan-style red mole, finished with an egg and creme fraiche.

Doc Martin’s Restaurant

www.taosinn.com/doc-martins

Why visit? The restaurant is a registered historic landmark known for globally inspired dishes. Try the chile relleno, which features an Anaheim chile stuffed with chevre, pepitas and pico de gallo.

Taos Mesa Brewing Taos Tap Room

www.taosmesabrewing.com

Why visit? Come for the specialized brews like the Kolsch .45 and Kachina Peak Pale Ale, an homage to the summit of Taos Ski Valley; stay for the juicy burgers, tacos and cheesy Frito pies — an homage to, well, great food.

Lambert’s of Taos

lambertsoftaos.com/new-manager/main

Why visit? A top spot for a special occasion, this fine dining mainstay also has a mighty fine wine selection, thanks to the staff sommelier. Indulge in the short ribs braised in espresso and red chile for a refined taste of the southwest.

Chokola

www.chokolabeantobar.com

Why visit? Dip into this cozy cafe for a decadent sip of single-origin chocolate, offered hot or cold for sipping or as mousse, bars and gelato. Take a walk on wild side and try chocolates infused with matcha, rosemary or chile. How fiery!

Common Fire

taoscommonfire.com

Why visit? Dig into comfort food favorites like chicken soup with house-made noodles, barbecue short ribs, and mustard-spiked mac and cheese. Just don’t skip the house-made bread.

5 Star Burgers

5starburgers.com

Why visit? Craving a burger? Open wide and take a bite out of the Taos Burger, topped with strips of fried green chile, barbecue sauce and cheddar cheese. Burger nirvana …

Aceq Restaurant

www.aceqrestaurant.com

Why visit? Beer-battered cheese curds in Taos? The owner’s Wisconsin roots are reflected in that mouth-watering  and oozy-gooey choice — but also save room for the chicken and waffles, fish and chips or bacon-wrapped dates. 

Cheers to Winter

Is there anything better than a multi-day celebration of food and wine in a winter wonderland? We think not.

Every year in Taos, visitors and locals alike savor the ability to combine world-class skiing with fine wines and great cuisine. This year’s Taos Winter Wine Festival, held Jan. 31-Feb. 4 in Taos Ski Valley and around town, will feature the culinary artistry found in Taos’ top restaurants coupled with the sophistication and wines of national wineries.

The event will feature more than 40 national wineries partnering with 24 of the area’s best restaurants and include Grand and Reserve Tastings ($95 each), chefs luncheons, winery seminars and wine dinners.

The Reserve Tasting is held Jan. 31, and will boast a dozen of Taos’ best restaurants serving signature appetizers alongside tastes of reserve wines from owners and winemakers from 36 participating wineries. It also features a silent auction of wine to benefit the Taos High School Culinary Arts Program. Get, and give!

The weekend culminates with the Feb. 2 Grand Tasting, where restaurants and wineries serve samples of their best food and wine.

See a full schedule of event or purchase your tickets at taoswinterwinefest.com.

Take Flight

Just call it the wind beneath our wings: Taos Ski Valley is now offering Taos Air, an airline that will provide daily direct flights from Dallas and Austin practically straight to the slopes.

It wasn’t always quite so easy to visit this popular skiing destination. The nearest major airport is in Albuquerque, three hours away, while Santa Fe, two hours away, has few regional flights.

But on the heels of a 10-year, $300-million renovation that includes a new main chairlift (Taos’s first high-speed quad), increased snowmaking, a “gondolita” and an upgraded children’s center, Taos Air could not be taking flight at a better time. Plus, next summer the Valley is building new mountain biking trails and a via ferreta, which is a protected climbing route.

Taos has also pledged a new environmental commitment, becoming the first ski resort designated as a Certified B Corporation. This certification helps ensure Taos Ski Valley meets the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, sustainability, public transparency and legal accountability. In other words — were going green.

Tickets for the 30-passenger chartered flight start around $400, and passengers land in El Prado, just down the valley from the ski area. Flights run Thursday through Sunday (and Monday holidays), now through March.

Making Magic in Taos

The holidays are here, and Taos is ready to trim the tree during Yuletide in Taos. With the falling of snow on candle-lit farolitos that line the streets in front of old adobe shops and homes, you are transported to another time and place. Here’s what’s on tap for November.

CAV Annual Yuletide Arts and Crafts Fair
Nov. 23-25, 11-4 p.m.
The Sagebrush Inn and Suites
The 35th annual Yuletide Arts & Crafts Fair features the area’s finest craftsman and artists. Shop from a variety of sculpture, paintings, foods, textiles, jewelry, pottery and more.

TAOSFOLK
Nov. 25-Dec. 24, 11-5 p.m.
Stables Gallery
Taos’ famous pop-up store returns with affordable and beautiful handmade gifts by Taos artisans.

31st Annual Yuletide Caroling and Tree Lighting
Friday, Nov 30, 4-6 p.m.
Taos Plaza
The 2018 Taos Holiday Season officially kicks off with the annual lighting of the town Christmas tree during the 31st Annual Yuletide Caroling and Tree Lighting. Come for the entertainment, and meet and greet special guests Mr. & Mrs. Claus (and even the Grinch!). Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies will be served.

Photo credit: Taos.org

El Pueblo History Lesson

Come learn about our fascinating history! Presented by the son and daughter of the founders, Roger Blakey & Cyndi Blakey-Blotter will provide guests with a multi-media presentation of not only the El Pueblo History but their personal experiences growing up at the El Pueblo and Taos in the 50’s and 60’s.

Things to learn include:

• when the El Pueblo opened and with how many rooms
• what is the charm and culture of the El Pueblo, then and now
• what was Taos like in the 50’s and 60”s
• famous Guests that stayed at the El Pueblo in the 50’s

and much, much more… Starting at 5pm, October 26th in our lobby area! Refreshments will be served.

You’ve Got the Beat This Month in Taos

During the summer months, Taos comes alive with the sound of music. From rock ’n’ roll to country, swing and more, there’s something for every music lover this month in Taos. Here are a few of our picks for can’t-miss performances:

1. Taos Plaza Live: Every Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. in Taos Plaza you can pull up a lawn chair or spread out a blanket for an evening of live music and dancing. It’s a family affair that brings locals and tourists alike to this historic plaza. And while there is no Taos Plaza Live on July 19, the community will celebrate Fiestas de Taos in the plaza July 20-22. Expect music, dance and a celebration of this community’s historic culture.

2. Taos School of Music: If classical music is more your groove, head over to the Hotel St. Bernard and Taos Community Auditorium for the Taos School of Music’s 55th season. The summer season also features concerts performed by Taos School of Music’s nearly 20 outstanding young artists in Taos and Taos Ski Valley. To learn more about Taos School of Music or order tickets, visit taosschoolofmusic.com.

3. Motet on the Mesa: On July 27-28, you’ll find Motet on the Mesa, an intimate festival that includes two days of music and Taos Mesa Brewing brews. Go for the beats, stay for the starlight camping at a vintage trailer hotel — Hotel Luna Mystica — just steps away from the festival. Click here to learn more.