Each October, just as autumn begins to rise in Santa Fe, so do the hot air balloons at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Spectators come from as close as Santa Fe as well as from all parts around the globe. It is considered to be the most photographed event in the world. This magical display is spread over nine days while painting the skies with brilliant colors.

Besides the balloons, there is a stage located in the center of Main Street that schedules various bands and children’s acts. And yes, there are food vendors at Balloon Fiesta Park serving a variety of foods.

My favorite event to attend is the mass ascensions which begin at 7am on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Mass Ascension is when all 500+ balloons launch at the same time. To avoid traffic you will want to be there by 5am. The air is cool and crisp at this time offering a great opportunity for a cup of coffee or hot chocolate to warm you along with a breakfast burrito seasoned with red or green chile.

For more information on Balloon Fiesta CLICK HERE



Summer sizzles on the Plaza in Santa Fe. For years, locals and tourist flock to the Indian Market and Spanish Market but quickly becoming the highlight of the summer season is the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market. Currently it is the largest folk art market in the world featuring artist from around the globe.

The two day event takes place on Museum Hill, featuring music, food and folk art from around the earth. It is a treat not only for the eyes but the senses. CLICK HERE for more information on more Santa Fe events.

One of my favorite things to do on Sundays is to sit on the Plaza in Santa Fe with a cup of my favorite coffee and my dog and take it all in; hardcore Santa Fe at her best. Green lawns, the overflowing, and flowering hanging baskets, old adobe buildings and older traditions all come together to delight my senses.

But on this Sunday it is the 4^th of July and Santa Fe has transformed herself into colors of Red, White & Blue for the annual Pancakes on the Plaza celebration raising money for charity. Locals and tourist come together where an estimated 30,000 pancakes are served followed by dancers and even a car show. CLICK HERE for more information on Santa Fe Events

There are a lot of good reasons to live in Santa Fe. But one of my favorites is for the snow skiing and there are a lot of choices when doing so. An hour and a half from Santa Fe is Taos Ski Valley, and in 2 hours you can be at both Angel Fire Resort or Red River ski areas. But for us Santa Feans, Ski Santa Fe is just a 15 mile drive from the Plaza at Santa Fe boasting some of the best skiing in the Southwest. Just another way to enjoy Life in Santa Fe.