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
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.
5 Ways to Live on the Water this Summer
Summertime is water time — and we’ve got five fantastic ways you can hit the wet stuff this summer in Taos. From rafting to hot springs, paddle boarding the more, there’s a water adventure for everyone in Taos. How will you test the waters?
1. Hop Into the Hot Springs: New Mexico is home to some of the most indulgent and beautiful hot springs in the world. Just south of Taos, you’ll find Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs. Deemed sacred by Native Americans, these legendary waters have been soothing body, mind and spirit for centuries. If you like your water a balmy 97 degrees, Taos has several hot spots for you right beside the Rio Grande.
2. Get Ready to Raft: Looking for a wild ride? Ride the Taos Box rapids, with names like Dead Car and Pinball. Calm and steady more your speed? Coast the mellow stretches of the Rio Chama. Several river outfitters call Taos home, including New Wave Rafting (great for kids!) and Big River Rafting Trips, so there’s no shortage of tours and rentals. It’s a fun family adventure you’ll never forget.
3. Paddle On: Standup paddle boarding, or SUPPING, originated in the Hawaiian Islands and is now one of the most popular water activities in North America and beyond. From coasting down a calm river to performing yoga poses on a paddle board, there’s something for every skill level and interest. Ready to get your paddle on? Try New Mexico River Adventures, Cotta’s Rio Grande Rafting or Far Flung Adventures, for top-notch rentals and tours.
4. Go Fish: What’s your pleasure? From serene solitude to bushwhacking, Taos waters have something for every fisherman (and woman). Northern New Mexico offers mid-summer anglers a welcome relief from the summer heat. There’s also a range of choices for bountiful lake and public and private river fishing. The Taos waters are well-known for excellent trout fishing — along with Rainbow, Brown and Brook Trout, the Taos area is home to the native Rio Grande Cutthroat trout. And with a variety of services aimed at helping you create your perfect day of fishing — Red River Fishing, Rio Grande Float Fishing and more — you’re guaranteed to reel in a day of summer fun.
5. Kayak for Kicks: Kayak-lovers have plenty of lake options to choose from in Taos, including Racecourse and Lower Taos Box on the Rio Grande. The abundance of tall mountains and north-central New Mexico’s location just south of the Colorado Rockies create cascades of whitewater every spring. From small tributaries to the ‘Mother’ Rio Grande, the north-central waterways are a river runner’s paradise. Need a rental? We suggest: Cotta’s Rio Grande, Los Rios River Runners, New Mexico River Adventures and New Wave Rafting.
Wanderlust: 5 Things to try in 2018
Have you kept up your New Year’s resolutions? We don’t know about you but we find resolutions are much easier to keep when we actually want to do them! To that end, we’ve created a fun 2018 “must” list for visitors to Taos. From cultural celebrations to relaxing hot springs, there are plenty of “musts” to try all year long. What will your first adventure be?
1. Enjoy the Snowy Trail Life: Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are both great ways to discover the natural beauty of Taos in the winter. West Rim Trail starts in the parking lot of the Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center, and is one of the best trails for sliding and gliding is Taos. The natural landscape of the gorge is breathtaking — a perfect way to commune with mother nature in the heart of winter, or any time of year.
2. Visit a National Monument: Discover the Rio Grande del Norte public lands — proclaimed a national monument in 2013 by President Obama. The landscape is rugged, with wide-open plains, volcanic cones and steep canyons (with rivers tucked away in their depths). The unique setting of the monument provides a myriad of recreational opportunities, from whitewater rafting and fishing to hiking and mountain biking.
3. View Artistic Inspirations: A source of inspiration and muse of Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams — who were fascinated by its adobe contours and sculptural buttresses — the famous San Francisco de Asis Church continues to be an integral part of the spiritual community of New Mexico. Don’t miss the 18th century oil painting “The Shadow of the Cross,” which used to hang inside the church and now resides in the Parish Hall. When the lights went dark, the painting would mysteriously glow … now visitors can only view it in the dark.
4. Soak It Up: Located along the beautiful canyon of the Rio Grande, Black Rock Hot Springs is a unique place to visit. This small collection of hot springs was captured into one soaking pool. During the winter, and especially during spring runoff, the hot water will be completely inundated by cold river water — and impossible to locate. The pool frequently gets washed out, too, so this adventure is not without its risks. (Speaking of which, clothing is optional …).
5. Celebrate the Taos Fiestas: Taos embarks on a cultural journey July 20-22 for Las Fiestas De Taos. A celebratory tradition passed from generation to generation, the Fiestas preserve the rich tri‐cultural way of life that developed in Taos over the last four centuries. This culture is unique to Taos, encompassing pueblo and plains Indians, Spanish explorers, conquistadores, French fur trappers and American mountain men. Music, parades, food and drink, and shopping all have a place at this not-to-be-missed festive event.
‘Tis The Season in Taos
’Tis the season for yuletide in Taos! The holiday season marks a month of historic and unique New Mexican celebrations that transport visitors and locals alike to another time and place. While myriad holiday activities abound, here are a few of our festive favorites.
1. Taosfolk: Nov.24-Dec.24
11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Stables Gallery
Taos’ famous POP-UP store is the perfect place to find affordable and beautiful handmade gifts by Taos artisans. Learn more at taosfolk.com.
2. Bonfires on Bent Street: Saturday, Dec. 9, 4-7 p.m.
John Dunn Shops and Bent Street
Enjoy bonfires, farolitos, luminaries, Aztec Dancers, carolers, Southwestern bites and cookies.
3. Christmas Eve Procession at Taos Pueblo & Christmas Eve Torchlight Parades: Christmas Eve
Sunset: Experience a one-of-its-kind event that features massive bonfires and the Procession of the Virgin with rifle salutes from the rooftops of the 1,000-year-old adobe pueblo buildings. Learn more at taospueblo.com.
6 p.m.: Watch as skiers make their way down the mountain in the dark — with flares as their only means of light. All the area ski resorts – Taos Ski Valley, Angel Fire, Sipapu, Enchanted Forest and Red River – have torchlight parades and fireworks during the holiday season. You can also view this rare spectacle pos New Year’s Eve.
4. Taos Pueblo Deer or Matachinas Dance: Christmas Day, 2 p.m.
Taos Pueblo Plaza
Witness the ancient Native American ceremonial dance honoring the depths of winter, as danced and drummed by the people of Taos Pueblo. Learn more at taospueblo.com.
5. Town of Taos New Year’s Eve Celebration: New Year’s Eve, 7:30-10 p.m.
Historic Taos Plaza
Watch the Times Square Countdown on a massive movie screen, a light show, fireworks, a pig roast, live music and more at this community New Year’s Eve celebration. Cheers!
Float On
While Taos may be most widely known for its arts and culture, stunning ski slopes and exhilarating hiking, there’s another activity that is guaranteed to take your Taos vacation to (literally) another level: A picturesque hot air balloon ride.
Taos hot air balloon rides follow a unique balloon flight path over and in the Rio Grande Gorge (baskets even touch the river!), the wilderness and the “high bridge” — which is unmatched in its scenic beauty and top-notch hot air balloon flight conditions. Four-hour flights start around $200 per person and usually include a post-flight champagne toast and brunch.
Traveling to Taos in fall? On Oct. 27-29, the Taos Mountain Balloon Rally will celebrate its 35th year. Each fall, Mother Nature paints the trees vivid shades of orange, red, amber and yellow — and even more color is added to the vista as the Taos skies are filled with dozens of brightly colored hot air balloons lifting into the Taos Mountain sunrise.The event hosts 35-50 balloons each year, and has become a popular stop for balloonists, families, crews, Taoseños and visitors alike. Click here to learn more!
Because after all, why walk when you can fly?
Can’t miss events during the Taos Summertime
Summertime in Taos is all about paying respect to traditions, jubilant celebrations and roaring fun in the New Mexico sun. But with so much going on, how can you possibly choose which events to enjoy? Here are our top picks for the must-do events this season. Don’t forget the sunscreen!
1. Movies on the Green — Now through Aug. 16
Get the family together and enjoy Taos’ beautiful spring and summer nights under star-filled skies with movies and entertainment at Kit Carson Park. Gates open at 6 p.m., and the show starts at dusk — but come early for pre-show entertainment. This season, guests will enjoy “Toy Story,” “Tangled,” “Frozen,” and even the new “Ghostbusters” flick, among others. Bring chairs, blankets and a picnic, then pick up a few sweet essentials at the concessions stand. A Kids Zone, which includes a Bounce House and Velcro Wall, rounds out the evening’s amusement. See the full schedule at taos.org/events/movies-on-the-green/.
2. Taos Plaza Live — Now through Aug. 31
Enjoy a wide variety of local and regional bands at this free music event every Thursday night from 6 to 8 p.m. on Historic Taos Plaza. Bring your own chairs, blanket and picnics for a night of sounds that range from rock, country and folk to bluegrass, blues, swing and ranchero. See the full music lineup here: http://taos.org/events/taos-plaza-live/.
3. Fourth of July at Taos Ski Valley — July 4
After the famous Arroyo Seco parade, climb to cooler temperatures along Hwy. 150 north to Taos Ski Valley. From 1 to 4:30 p.m. at the Bavarian Lodge, enjoy a chair lift parade, live music, food, libations, the annual Rubber Duck Race, a KidZone play area and live music from “Out of Nowhere.” For a complete list of events on the Fourth of July in Taos, visit taos.org/events/celebrate-4th-july-taos.
4. The Pow Wow — July 7-9
Members of Indian tribes throughout the country gather in Taos to compete in traditional dance competitions during The Pow Wow. Crafts booths and food vendors ring the pow wow circle during the three-day event, which is celebrating its 32nd year. With only a handful of pow wow’s in the United States, it’s a must-see celebration of Native American culture. For more information, visit www.taospueblopowwow.com.
5. Las Fiestas de Taos — July 21-23
As they have for centuries, the people of Taos celebrate the Feast of St. Anne and St. James. The annual event, popularly referred to as “The Taos Fiestas,” allows the local population to put aside their labor for two days and bask in the leisure of the holy days. The Fiestas encompass a roster of activities: A Fiestas Queen is selected from among the local beauties, and musical and dance performances are scheduled on the Plaza every hour. A commemorative Mass and procession from Our Lady of Guadalupe Church officially opens the event on Friday evening. Two parades are staged – one on Saturday and another on Sunday, and of course plenty of food, drink and curios are available at vendor booths circling Historic Taos Plaza. For more information, visit fiestasdetaos.com.
6. Dwight Yoakum in concert — July 29
Get your tickets now to see country legend Dwight Yoakam at Kit Carson Park. Yoakum has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide, and is a multiple GRAMMY Award winner. He’ll be joined by The Mavericks and The Last Bandoleros. Tickets are $52 for adults; children 12 and under are just $9. Learn more at taos.org/events/dwight-yoakam-mavericks-last-bandoleros.
photo credit: Doc Badger (Flickr)
Bursting with Blooms
Is there anything more wonderfully aromatic than fresh, colorful lilacs?
It’s no wonder that each year during the two weeks between Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, the Taos Lilac Festival celebrates the blooming of these stunning flowering trees and shrubs in Taos. But the not-to-be-missed weekend of activities is May 19-21, when the grand festival is held in Kit Carson Park.
From an arts and crafts fair, to a pet parade, vintage Flying Jenny Carousel and plenty of live music, the festival is a lilac-lovers paradise. For those who want to explore, simply pick up a self-guided walking tour map of the Taos historic district. In addition to the fragrant blooms, be sure to check out the New Mexico Beer & Wine Garden, featuring beers, wines and foods from New Mexico; the Taos Taco Cook Off (yum!); and the Lilac 5K (to burn off those tacos…).
Add a little flower power to your weekend at the Taos Lilac Festival. Sweet scents, beautiful blooms and great eats? It does’t get much better than that! Learn more by clicking here.
Take a Hike
Spring is here, and with it comes a time of rebirth and renewal. Can you imagine a better time to explore the Taos Ski Valley’s plentiful hiking trails? From Williams Lake to Wheeler Peak, there’s a hike for every nature lover — whether you’re novice to advanced.
Carson National Forest offers seven unique hiking trails, ranging from the two-mile Williams Lake Trail to the eight-mile Wheeler Peak Trail. For beginners, Williams Lake is a fantastic choice. You’ll discover nature in all its green glory, thanks to a valley dotted with aspen, Englemann and blue spruce; western white fir; and even red fir and bristlecone pine. And don’t miss the lush meadows, alive with colorful wildflowers. For expert hikers, test your skills by climbing New Mexico’s highest peak, Whealer Peak. The more than 13,000-foot summit is known for its unmatched views, and occasional glimpses of a bighorn sheep, elk or mule deer.
No matter which hike you choose, remember to come prepared for varying temperatures, and to hike early to avoid afternoon lighting and rain showers. Waterproof boots and hiking poles are recommended, since many trails stay wet from winter snows into the summer.
If you’re ready to indulge in nature’s majestic beauty, why not take a hike?
A Hot & Cold Adventure
While Taos is known for its scenic skiing adventures, those of you looking to get in touch with your inner yogi will love a unique event offered by Heritage Inspirations.
Snowshoe & Hot Yoga is a full-day tour, available Thursday through Sunday, that indulges both your spiritual and athletic sides. Kick off your day with a snowshoeing adventure through the Amole Canyon — an 8,150-foot elevation — for two hours of snowy bliss. Then, after a gourmet lunch and warming beverage, relax at Hot Yoga Taos Studio for a muscle-soothing hot yoga session. The tour includes all necessary gear; learn more at heritageinspirations.com.
Whether it’s for the unmatched views, mind-calming yoga or simply an unexpected day date (Valentine’s Day weekend, maybe?), why not try something new during your next visit to El Pueblo Lodge?
Wine Time
Sip, swirl, ski? Ok, maybe not in that order …but on Feb. 1-5, visitors to El Pueblo Lodge will have the opportunity to attend a special Taos Ski Valley event that will please the palate of even the most particular of wine lovers.
At the Taos Winter Wine Fest, visitors and locals alike will savor the ability to blend world-class skiing with fine wines and top-notch cuisine. The weeklong event offers seminars, wine tastings, and wine dinners hosted by vintners and paired with Taos chefs.
Two Grand Tastings feature more than 75 unique wines from 20 wineries and savory bites from a dozen Taos and Taos Ski Valley restaurants. Looking for a keepsake to remember your time in Taos? A silent auction of rare wines will benefit the New Mexico Nature Conservancy. Sold!
Learn more about tickets, view a schedule of events and find transportation options at taoswinterwinefest.com.
Cheers to 2017!
5 Favorite Taos Holiday Musts
Who’s ready for a little sparkle and shine? ’Tis the season for a festive time in Taos. From torchlight parades to musical performances, fireworks and even the Procession of the Virgin, there’s a veritable feast of holiday activities. So hang up those skis (at least for a few hours) and see what Santa brought the (naughty and) nice boys and girls spending their holiday in Taos.
1. Home for the Holidays:
On Friday, Dec. 16, check out a free family concert featuring musicians Robert Mirabal, Max Gomez, Michael Hearne and Chris Arellano. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. at the Taos Community Auditorium (ask the front desk about securing your tickets). BYO dancing shoes and holiday cheer!
2. Christmas Eve Torchlight Parades:
It’s a bright and shiny Christmas Eve at Taos Ski Valley, as skiers make their way down the mountain in the dark of night as flares light their way. It’s a picture-perfect moment.
3. Christmas Eve Procession at Taos Pueblo:
After the torchlight parades, head to Taos Pueblo for a one-of-a-kind, magical holiday event. You’ll witness massive bonfires and the Procession of the Virgin, complete with rifle salutes from the rooftops of the 1,000-year-old adobe pueblo buildings.
4. Taos Pueblo Deer or Matachinas Dance:
On Christmas Day at 2 p.m., witness a beautiful tradition at the Taos Pueblo Plaza. Ancient Native American ceremonial dances, honoring the depths of winter, will be danced and drummed by the people of Taos Pueblo. Take note: As these are sacred ceremonies, no cameras, cell phones or video cameras are allowed.
5. New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks:
Another extraordinary display of light, spend your New Year’s Eve viewing skiers, torches in hand, gliding down the famous Taos Ski Valley mountain. Plus, enjoy a kiss while firework displays light the winter sky in celebration of the new year. Hello, 2017!
