Snow has graced the mountaintops, seasonal foods are simmering, and good times are in store. Santa Fe is a gift givers heaven. So, I hope your list is made and you’ve checked it twice. This is the best time and place to grab one-of-a-kind Santa Fe holiday surprises.

Give The Gift Of Cooking

Here’s a gift that keeps on giving—a chile-making workshop at the Santa Fe School of Cooking creates inventive chefs out of everyone. These experiences come in Christmas colors: red chile or green; and a 2-hour class will arm your gift-getter with all the knowledge they’ll l need to pull together an enchilada dinner. They will come away able to discuss the merits of red versus green, and the varieties of New Mexico chile, and the skill to create a tasty homemade tortilla with their own two hands. They’ll learn how to handle our spicy, potent ingredients safely and efficiently.

Give them the gift of a chile-making workshop from the Santa Fe School of Cooking.

Give them the gift of a chile-making workshop from the Santa Fe School of Cooking.

His and Her’s Holiday Spirits

The City Different feels the same about fine spirits as it does about its renowned cuisine: we like it homemade. Santa Fe Spirits saw that niche and filled it when Colin Keegan opened this distillery to create premium spirits right here in town; including: artisanal Scotch style whiskies and Calvados-style apple brandy to name just just a few . These spirits have been joined by Expedition Vodka and Wheeler’s Gin—so  so all preferences are satisfied .

Gift your loved one with an experience with a e Distillery tour on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The distillery is located at 7505 Mallard Way.  The downtown tasting room is also a great place to meet and mingle with friends over a signature cocktail. The tasting room is located at 308 Read Street.

The downtown tasting room is a must where you can meet and mingle with friends over a Santa Fe Spirits cocktail.

The downtown tasting room is a must where you can meet and mingle with friends over a Santa Fe Spirits cocktail.

 

Native American Culture: The Perfect  Gift

Some of the best shopping involves wearable art, especially jewelry, and you can find authentic Native American jewelry and art vendors daily under the Portal at the Palace of the Governors. There are always dozens of artists selling custom pieces year-round, snow or shine, at the Plaza.

Take comfort in knowing The Native American Vendors Program is regulated to ensure the livelihood of Native American artists and the authenticity of their work and culture. Knowing that makes  it easy to fall in love with your purchase even more.

You can find authentic Native American jewelry and culture under the portal at the Palace of the Governors.

You can find authentic Native American jewelry and culture under the portal at the Palace of the Governors.

Simply Log In for Hands-free Shopping

For sweet stocking stuffers, a spot of chocolate is always a good choice. Consider a jaunt to The Chocolatesmith! Nothing says Santa Fe like a rich dark chocolate pâté infused with chile. The only challenge with signature Santa Fe treats is not to eat them before they get tucked into that holiday stocking! Munch away because these delicious delights are available online.

If you opt for gourmet chile chocolate pâté, you’ve got to do it Christmas-style, red and green! Photo courtesy of The Chocolatesmith If you opt for gourmet chile chocolate pâté, you’ve got to do it Christmas-style, red and green! Photo courtesy of The Chocolatesmith

 

They’ll Walk More Than A Mile In These Boots!

Any guy or gal looks the part in a pair of signature cowboy boots from Back at the Ranch, tucked in a classic old home, set back from the sidewalk on East Marcy Street. The shape and style of a great pair of boots can be dressed up or down as the occasion demands. But if your cowboy or cowgirl is the type who prefers that distressed look, Kowboyz  or Double Take  ponies up a selection of vintage boots that will make him or her feel ready to ride.

Dress up or dress down as the occasion demands with boots from Back at the Ranch. Photo courtesy of Fresh Cut Spaces

Dress up or dress down as the occasion demands with boots from Back at the Ranch. Photo courtesy of Fresh Cut Spaces

Whether a well-loved companion of many years or a new flame, a child just learning to leave the nest, or Mom and Dad, the people in your life will appreciate the effort you put into finding a singularly, unique Santa Fe gift. Between now and the holidays, Santa Fe deals abound. A quick trip in person or an online exploration will ensure your holiday shopping success. Take it from me; you’ll share in the delight when they open that present to find a surprise that’s truly The City Different.

Get even more inspiration in your very own Santa Fe travel guide. Happy Shopping!