Christmas at the Palace & Las Posadas
Experience the living spirit of Santa Fe with two beloved FREE Christmas traditions: Christmas at the Palace and Las Posadas. These family-friendly events at the New Mexico History Museum & Palace of the Governors offer hot cider, cookies, live music, craft-making, and a traditional candle-lit procession. It's a genuine celebration capturing the heart of Santa Fe's holiday season.
What to Expect
Traditional Hispanic Christmas procession and community celebration.
Event Details
Duration
2-1.5 hours
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Santa Fe
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
New Mexico History Museum & Palace of the Governors
Food & Drink
Hot cider and cookies available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, cultural enthusiasts, holiday tradition seekers
Vibe
Festive, traditional, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Medium
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Book accommodations months in advance, as Santa Fe fills up quickly for major holiday events, leading to significant price increases.
- Arrive early for Las Posadas to secure a good viewing spot for the candle-lit procession around the Plaza.
- Consider bringing a non-perishable food donation for the collection at Christmas at the Palace.
- Check the event link for the most up-to-date details on specific dates and times, as they are often TBA.
- The History Museum and Palace will close at 3 p.m. on event days to prepare, so plan your daytime visits accordingly.
Special Events & Promotions
- Donations of non-perishable food welcomed
- Visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus
- Opportunity to operate an antique printing press
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Las Posadas?
Las Posadas is a traditional Hispanic Christmas custom that re-enacts Mary and Joseph's search for lodging before the birth of Jesus. It involves a candle-lit procession and is celebrated with carols, cookies, and hot cider.
What activities are available at Christmas at the Palace?
Christmas at the Palace typically includes hot cider, cookies, live music, piñatas, craft-making activities, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Are there any costs associated with these events?
Both Christmas at the Palace and Las Posadas are FREE family events. Donations of non-perishable food are welcomed for Christmas at the Palace.
Where do these events take place?
The events are held at the New Mexico History Museum & Palace of the Governors and on the Santa Fe Plaza.
What is the best way to get to the event?
The venue is located at 113 Lincoln Ave in Santa Fe. Public transportation options may be available, and parking information should be checked closer to the event date. The Plaza area is walkable.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.