Jenny's View

Friends,

La Fonda is Santa Fe’s cornerstone for access to cultural insight, offering exposure to the distinct traditions that make New Mexico a destination for so many.  We take pride in celebrating our diverse and multicultural staff, supporting local and international artists, and partnering with businesses that promote sustainability and inclusivity. 

La Fonda understands that our differences make us stronger. That’s why over the years we’ve been a steadfast supporter of events that promote economic and cultural diversity, including the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) Santa Fe Indian Market  and the International Folk Art Market, Santa Fe’s signature July event.

Typically, this month the hotel is jam packed and preparing for festivities surrounding the annual market. While the 2020 IFAM event on Museum Hill has been canceled this year, you can still take part in the IFAM Virtual One World Gala & Auction that promises to showcase a range of folk art that embodies the depth of the traditional market experience.  A spectacular collection of curated items will be on display featuring artists from across the globe.  Remember, these artists rely heavily on revenue generated from this annual event, so please join me in participating!  You can register for the event here

Detours, La Fonda’s Gift Shop will highlight folk art throughout the entire month.  Discover artist Claudia Fajardo’s intricate collection of jewelry inspired by Colombia’s vibrant natural beauty.  Plus, get to know the distinctly local folk artist, Thomas Hogan, whose birdhouses and New Mexico License Plate Guitars rock the vibrant flair of the Land of Enchantment. 

La Fonda holds a great responsibility to lead New Mexico’s hospitality industry during this health crisis.  Just this week during a press conference New Mexico Governor, Michelle Lujan Grisham announced further restrictions to travel as a result of the increased cases across the country.  We plan to remain open for business while adhering to the enhanced safety measures.  Learn more about the latest order here.

I’m pleased to announce that we are officially New Mexico Safe Certified and we made the NM Safe Promise to keep our staff, our guests and our community safe.  Certification required La Fonda’s management team and staff to complete a series of virtual COVID-19 tutorials and pass follow-up exams regarding safety and hygiene best practices. Businesses across the state are participating in this important initiative to encourage responsible interactions with visitors and locals alike.  At La Fonda, we’ve enhanced our already vigorous cleaning standards and our team is laser focused on cleanliness and providing relaxing venues for you to enjoy socializing with proper physical distancing measures in place. 

While there is uncertainty regarding future travel, we still have low-key events planned for August, including the second annual Sovereign Santa Fe art exhibit.  This year’s Sovereign event will take place at La Fonda’s La Terraza Ballroom August 10-16.  Explore new work by established and up-and-coming Native American Artists, including Tony Abeyta, Sheldon Harvey, Monty Little and others.  Explore the show then make your way to Santa Fe’s best kept secret: our open-air Terrace Rooftop Garden Patio, now serving lite fare and drinks. 

Drink in the sunset at our Bell Tower Rooftop Bar!  There’s no better place to capture stellar views of the city and distant mountains. And, don’t forget about La Plazuela, now serving our summer menu showcasing the best of the season. My new favorite dish is the Watermelon Heirloom Tomato Caprice – fresh watermelon paired with juicy heirloom tomatoes atop mint basil vinaigrette and sprinkled with red chile infused pistachios.  It packs a lot of flavor and absolutely hits the spot on a hot summer day.

Remember, it’s Still Summer in Santa Fe, and there’s plenty of hiking, biking and outdoor activities to enjoy and numerous patio dining venues to discover.  Let’s travel responsibly and adhere to established safety practices for the well-being of everyone.   We’ll persevere and navigate these challenging times, together.

In solidarity,

Jenny

A Plate Of Food With A Slice Cut Out
La Plazuela couple

                                                                                                                                              


A Close Up Of A Flower

One World Gala & Auction


Each year in July Santa Fe honors folk artists from around the world.  This year we're saddened that our friends from across the globe cannot attend the annual International Folk Art Market in person, but we're pleased to invite you to participate in the virtual One World Gala & Auction!

Silver beaded earrings

Detours at La Fonda


Colombian artist, Claudia Fajardo is one of our most popular jewelers.  Her line of nature inspired accessories blend colorful glass beads with hammered metal; each creation is unique and beautiful.

A Close Up Of A Flower

THE SHOPS AT LA FONDA


Let's rally for small businesses!  La Fonda welcomes Gemsong and Cynde Roof Fine Art Gallery.  


La Fonda and Santa Fe in the News

FORBES
FOOD, WINE TRAVEL MAGAZINE
THE SANTA FE REPORTER