Get Pumped!

Jenny's View

Dear Friends, 

Peter is one of the people behind the scenes at La Fonda. When we approached him to help us relocate the fitness center from the spa, he took on the challenge of finding space for 700 square feet of equipment. And he did! Now located next to the pool, the fitness center has two treadmills and two ellipticals with TV screens, a rowing machine, bikes and a free weight/stretching area. And the machines are wi-fi enabled, so you can binge Iron Chef while sweating off those calories. The space is compact, efficient and feels great. Maybe I’ll let him win a game of racquetball one of these days, when we are both healthy enough to play together again.

New Fitness Center Overlooking Pool

Peter also worked with Barbara Felix, another dear friend and our lead architect, on renovations to La Fiesta Lounge and our Detours gift shop. Unlike Peter, who I've known forever, I think, I met Barbara through Sam Ballen at La Fonda. Barbara was also the architect for the remodel of our restaurant, La Plazuela, as well as renovating all of our guest rooms, lobby, public areas and our ballroom. Barbara and I traveled together to explore Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter and Fred Harvey country to familiarize ourselves with the appropriate style and architecture prior to any of the La Fonda renovations we were undertaking, and, to do our due diligence to ensure our renovations were as authentic and true to our history, as possible. All of the hotel accolades and awards we have received for the past 10 years for our renovation projects are directly due to Barbara’s extraordinary talents.

Peter Wurzburger

A Couple Of People That Are Talking To Each Other

Construction Worker, Barbara Felix and Jenny Kimball

A Group Of People Posing For The Camera

You should start seeing the new Bell Tower, La Plazuela and spa logos in our communications over the next few months. They are the handiwork of Bob Borden, another long time friend of mine and behind the scenes guy. Bob grew up in Albuquerque and brought his already successful career in marketing back to Santa Fe. As a professional branding/marketing consultant he’s been helping us refresh La Fonda’s branding and advertising. He also created the new logo for the recently renovated and expanded spa (more on that next time).

La Plazuela

A Close Up Of A Logo

Bob Borden    

A Person Posing For The Camera

The Bell Tower

A Drawing Of A Person

If you’ve traveled recently or are from the Dallas or Houston area, you may have seen the new advertising campaign created by Bob for La Fonda that features our 1920s, Fred Harvey-era, Do Not Disturb door hangers. The “spirit of authenticity” campaign shares the genuine feel of the hotel with loyal and potential guests. And it’s not just the historical authenticity that’s the hallmark of La Fonda, but the true, New Mexico spirit of the people who work here. Many of our staff have been turning ordinary vacations into extraordinary experiences for our guests for 10, 20 or 30 years, or longer. It’s their spirit that makes La Fonda the truly remarkable place it is today.

Peter, Barbara and Bob all represent that spirit of authenticity, as shown by their dedication to getting the details right in their collaboration with us.

La Fonda Ad Campaign

A Close Up Of Text On A White Background

La Plazuela Ad Campaign

A Close Up Of A Plate Of Food

Here’s to talented friends,

Jennifer Lea Kimball

Detours at La Fonda  FOLK ART MARKET 

For the month of July, in celebration of the 15th anniversary of the International Folk Art Market here in Santa Fe, Detours proudly presents Claudia Fajardo Jewelry Design from Bogota, Columbia. Nature being her inspiration, Claudia’s work is focused on textured silver pieces with hammered, matte and satin finishes giving a contemporary look. All of her collections are 100% handmade artistry using a combination of glass beads of varying colors and sizes to create a unique design that showcases geometry and natural shapes.

Claudia Fajardo Jewelry

A Person Standing Next To A Palm Tree And Water

Claudia Fajardo Jewelry

A Necklace On A Table

Additionally, whimsical and colorful wooden Bozo Puppets from Mali will be featured throughout the store capturing the essence of Africa. The puppets and masks represent animals, both domestic and wild, that are still present in daily life: cows, goats, sheep, antelope, giraffes, crocodiles, turtles as well as various types of fish. All of these animals play a role in theater as it is how tribal history, customs and morals are taught within the communities along the Niger River. Also available are two extraordinarily carved mermaids representing the mythical side of the pageantry… unique showpieces for the avid folk art collector.

Please stop in for a unique folk art experience.

Bozo Wooden Puppets from Bali

A Group Of Stuffed Animals

Recipe For Adventure

Cucumber-Chili Margarita 

It's getting hot out there and the best way to cool off at La Fonda, is to order one of our most popular margaritas. Made with a cucumber-chile infused tequila (100% agave, of course) and refreshing pineapple and lime juice, this margarita never fails to quench your thirst. 

INGREDIENTS

1 1/4 ounce Sauza Cucumber-Chili Tequila

0.50 ounce. Chile Ancho Reyes Liqueur

0.75 ounce Fresh Lime Juice

0.75 ounce Pineapple Juice

0.125 ounce Agave Nectar

METHOD:

Muddle one cucumber wheel (slice of cucumber)

Shake hard with ice, rim the glass with Chile Salt or margarita salt, Serve on ice or straight up.

Garnish with cucumber wheel and a lime wheel

Drink! 

                

                               A Person Sitting At A Table In A Restaurant

     

Live at La Fonda

Singer songwriter Gary Vigil has been playing music in Santa Fe and northern New Mexico for more than 20 years. His easy-listening acoustic guitar, harmonica and smooth vocals focus on the singer-songwriter traditions of the 1960s through the 80s, touching the edge of country and western. He’ll throw in some newer music, country and Spanish tunes, too, especially if you ask.

Gary Vigil

A Man Holding A Guitar

"I’ve been playing for over 25 years in Santa Fe, have produced 4 CDs and I’m working on a fifth," he says. "It’s been an honor to play at La Fonda for 10 years off and on, just me, the guitar and harmonica," says the New Mexico native whose deep roots are reflected in his music.

Gary's Album

A Sign On The Side Of A Mountain

Vigil takes requests, claiming he won’t often be stumped, no matter how obscure the request. “People can expect memories of favorite songs, done in a little different way, but with the same original feelings. I read the audience, feeling out the crowd to figure out what everyone likes that evening,” he adds. (July 8 and 22)

It's a Good Time To...

Get festive! Raise a glass, slide into July 4th’s Pancakes on the Plaza, and then into two of the biggest markets in the country, plus world-class opera, music and more. In a city that’s bursting with tradition, July welcomes visitors from around the world, charming them just as it does the locals.

Wine lovers should head to the 25th Annual Santa Fe Wine Festival (Jun 30-Jul 1) where the vintner’s art will be available for sipping and sampling. Then bring the whole family to the 43rd annual Pancakes on the Plaza (Jul 4) celebrating our nation’s independence with a vintage and classic car show, music from Santa Fe Performance Band, Manzanares and Westin McPowell and Friends. Support the arts and crafts vendors, or simply soak in the local color.

Santa Fe Wine Festival

A Man Wearing A Hat

Pancakes on the Plaza

A Dog Sitting On A Plate

The Santa Fe Opera opens with a rousing Candide (through Aug 25) and classic Madame Butterfly (through Aug 24) and continues through August with favorites The Italian Girl in Algiers (July 21 - August 17) and Ariadne Auf Naxos (July 28 - August 23). This year’s Opera debut, Doctor Atomic (July 14 – August 16) by John Adams, directed by Peter Sellars is the perfect fusion of venue and subject.

Doctor Atomic

A Man Standing In Front Of A Window

Madame Butterfly

A Close Up Of A Sign

ART Santa Fe brings collectors, artists and art aficionados from around the world for an extended weekend’s worth (Jul 12-15) of contemporary, global art, special events, and entertainment, showcasing modern and contemporary work by renowned masters and emerging artists.

Art Santa Fe

A Body Of Water

Benjamin Schneider

Jul 13-15 is the 2018 International Folk Art Market, the largest event of its kind, voted the Best Art Festival by USA Today’s Reader’s Choice Awards. It’s the only place to meet 162 master folk artists representing 53 countries and Nobel Peace Prize-Winner, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, as Honorary Chair. Put on your own folk art and support these international entrepreneurs!

Held right outside our front door on the Historic Santa Fe Plaza, Traditional Spanish Market (Jul 27-29) brings woodcarving, tinwork, hide painting, and more to downtown Santa Fe. The market also features artist demonstrations, interactive exhibitions, and other activities. The Contemporary Hispanic Market (Jul 28-29) features original work and individual expression in the mediums of painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, furniture, jewelry, ceramics, weaving and more.

2018 International Folk Art Market

A Group Of People Wearing Costumes

Traditional Spanish Market

A Group Of People Posing For A Photo

Contemporary Spanish Market 

A Tattoo On Their Face

Shops at La Fonda

Photogenesis

Meet the newest addition to the gallery staff. "Arnie" is a 17 month old Westie puppy who loves to greet anyone at the Photogenesis door. As many of you know, Westie Oliver held that position for 15 of his 16 years. No one can ever replace Oliver, but Arnie is especially loving and would love to meet you. Joette hopes to see many of you in the coming months here in Santa Fe. Arnie looks forward to meeting you too! Call 800-236-3314 or email ojoette @cybermesa.com with any requests.

A Brown And White Dog Wearing A Costume

Tom Taylor

Stop by Tom Taylor this July where their collection of handcrafted belts, buckles, and bags features works by master silversmith Richard Stump are featured. Richard combines his love of the outdoors with his formal art training to create stunning buckle designs that are collected worldwide. His experience as both a river guide and a hunting guide have informed his illustration style to inspire works of art that truly spring to life from their sterling silver and 14k gold canvases. In addition to being renowned for his wildlife inspired buckle designs, Richard has become internationally famous for his Skull buckle art. Stop into Tom Taylor’s La Fonda store or visit online or call 1-800-303-9733 to learn more of the breadth and beauty of Richard’s craftsmanship. 

Marlin Buckle

A Brown And Black Shoes

Silver SkullA Red And Black Costume

Sui Deus

A Black And Blue Text

Things Finer 

Things Finer has been Santa Fe's premier source for fine antique and contemporary jewelry for over 25 years. This stunning French 19th Century perfume set and sailboat pin are both Mid-century with enamel and available now by calling 505-983-5552 or visit the website, ThingsFiner.com.

Things Finer

A Cake Sitting On Top Of A Table

Film & Performance

New Mexico Actors Lab turns to (the late and one time local) Sam Shepard’s Ages of the Moon (July 7-22), and shifts August into David Mamet’s November (Aug 2-19). Meanwhile, Santa Fe Playhouse investigates The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (July 19-Aug. 5). And don’t forget the 99th annual Fiesta Melodrama, lampooning local politicians (Aug 23-Sept 9). Or head to formerly Warehouse 21 for The Sweetest Swing in Baseball a new black comedy by Rebecca Gilman that has (almost) nothing to do with sports (July 14-29).

Ages of the Moon 

A Person Standing In Front Of A Brick Building

Fiesta Melodrama

A Group Of People Sitting Posing For The Camera

Dance is the theme at the Lensic in July. Hometown favs Aspen Santa Fe Ballet works its contemporary dance magic (Jul 14), and local favorite Juan Siddi Flamenco shows why New Mexico is the flamenco capital of North American (Jul 20). Dance is back with modern master group Pilobolus (Jul 24), and Stars of American Ballet (Aug 3-4).

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet

A Man Doing A Trick On A Skateboard

Juan Siddi Flamenco

A Group Of People On A Stage

Also at the Lensic, awarding-winning actor Max McLean brings his acclaimed portrayal of writer and philosopher C.S. Lewis to Santa Fe (Jul 18-19).  

Max McLean

A Man Sitting In A Chair

Out & About

Horse lovers and fans of equine excellence travel to Santa Fe for the magnificent Hipico Santa Fe Summer Series that showcases four weeks of hunter and jumper competitions with equestrian athletes from across the United States, Europe, Canada and Mexico (Jul 18-Aug 12). Events are free and open to the public, so saddle up!

Hipico Santa Fe

A Person Riding A Horse Drawn Carriage

El Rancho de los Golondrinas celebrates the 11th Annual ¡Viva México! Fiesta with the music, culture, food and art of Mexico (July 22-23). Fill your belly with the food, beer and cider of New Mexico at the Second Annual Panza Llena, Corazón Contento: New Mexico Food and Beer Festival. Because you know what they say, full belly, happy heart (Aug 4-5)!

¡Viva México! Fiesta

A Group Of People Wearing Costumes

Panza Llena, Corazón Contento: New Mexico Food and Beer Festival

A Person Wearing A Hat

Who wants to see intrepid adventurers (including our own GM Rik Blyth, whom you can help reach his goal here) rappel down La Fonda? We do! Saturday, Aug. 4, the Over the Edge fundraiser benefits one of our favorite charities, Girls Inc., opening day of the 46th annual Girls Inc. Arts & Crafts show, happening all weekend on the Plaza, with juried works from 170 artists from around the nation.

Girl's Inc - Rappel Off La Fonda

Girl's Inc Arts and Crafts Show

A Little Girl Posing For A Picture

Objects of Art Santa Fe is an exciting addition to the city’s summer season. This four-day event, (Aug 9–12), will be held at El Museo in the Railyard district, with material ranging from contemporary to historic, antique to modern. The show offers paintings, sculpture, and fine art of all kinds. You’ll find furniture, books, fashion, jewelry, textiles, and tribal, folk, American Indian, African, and Asian art. The new, the old, the unique, the unexpected, for sure.

Mark your calendars for Aug 18-19 for the largest and most prestigious juried Native arts show in the world – Santa Fe Indian Market. The Santa Fe Plaza swells with over 200,000 visitors from around the world, the 97th annual market promises opportunities to buy art directly from roughly 900 Native artists. It’s a once a year, can’t miss event just steps from our door! And, once again, the Indian Market Gala & Auction will be held at La Fonda. (Aug 18). Tickets may be purchased here.

Objects of Art

A Group Of People In A Room

Santa Fe Indian Market 

A Group Of People Posing For The Camera

Music & Dance

The Santa Fe Desert Chorale, one of the nation’s premier professional vocal ensembles, showcases 24 vocalists, 13 instrumentalists, 3 concert venues and 2 conductors during its 2018 Summer Festival (Jul 21-Aug 9). Late afternoon and evening performances, free and paid events, speakers and music span four centuries and multiple continents right here in the City Different.

Hear great local music for a good cause at Jammin’ for the Homeless, a fundraiser for St. Elizabeth Shelter at the Lensic (Jul 26). Proceeds benefit 5 emergency and transitional housing programs in Santa Fe.

Santa Fe Desert Chorale

A Group Of People Sitting Posing For The Camera

Jammin' for the Homeless

A Group Of People Posing For The Camera


Weeknights through mid-August, Santa Fe Bandstand’s free summer music festival on the Santa Fe Plaza stacks a full line up featuring La Fonda’s own Bill Hearne Trio (July 5), world-beat dance band Wagogo (Jul 10), Latin rhythm makers Baracutanga (Jul 18) and the jazz stylings of Hillary Smith with the Albuquerque Jazz Orchestra (Jul 24). The series closes Aug 10 with Meow Wolf’s family friendly Monster Battle Party (we’re a little scared and a lot excited for that one).

 

Baracutanga

A Group Of People Standing In Front Of A Crowd Posing For The Camera

Hillary Smith

A Person In A Dark Room

Meow Wolf's Monster Battle Party

Pack your own picnic for Music on the Hill, a Santa Fe summer tradition, Wednesday evenings through July at the St. John’s College athletic field, a free, family-friendly, summer concert series. Pack another basket and visit the Santa Fe Botanical Garden for live music every first Thursday of the month at sunset (Jul 5, Aug. 2, Sept 6).

St. John's Music on the Hill

A Group Of People In A Field

Santa Fe Botanical Gardens 

A Group Of People In A Garden

The 13th Annual New Mexico Jazz Festival has scheduled more than 2 weeks of impressive performers in Santa Fe and Albuquerque include Eric Bibb (July 15), a film screening and concert with Dave Grusin (July 22), NEA Jazz Masters AB Spellman and Dee Dee Bridgewater (July 27), and Chucho Valdes & Gonzalo Rubalcaba (July 28). Center Stage Santa Fe is the place for bluesman Chris Smither (Jul 22), while The Bridge at Santa Fe Brewing Company cooks up summer fun on their outdoor stage with acclaimed singer-songwriter James McMurtry (Jul 25), and the chilling harmonies of Rainbow Kitten Surprise (Aug 19).

Chris Smither

Chris Smither Holding A Guitar

James McMurtry

A Man Wearing A Red Hat And Looking At The Camera

Rainbow Kitten Surprise

A Group Of People Posing For The Camera

The Levitt-AMP Railyard music series features free music and family fun. Anthony Leon delivers searing electric rock and roll with a twang (Jul 7). Experience the infectious melodies of Magic Giant (Jul 21) and a salute to the late Tom Petty (Jul 27). August sees genre-defying powerhouse Deva Mahal (Aug 4), and cultural barrier breaking Dengue Fever (Aug 11).

The Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival is one of the world’s preeminent music festivals, guided by a visionary spirit and dedicated to artistic excellence and innovation. Starting with the Orion String Quartet (Jul 15-16) and continuing through the Festival Finale featuring critically acclaimed Dover Quartet (Aug 20), there’s something for every lover of chamber music and virtuoso musicianship over the five week festival.

Anthony Leon

A Man Holding A Guitar

Deva Mahal

A Man Standing In Front Of A Stage

At the Museums

The NM Museum of History complements the Santa Fe Opera’s Doctor Atomic with its own journey into New Mexico’s nuclear past. Atomic Histories just opened, exploring the most famous events, sometimes little-known stories, and inventions born here which impact our lives, and helps to recognize the remarkable contributions of thousands of people involved in writing New Mexico’s Atomic Histories for the last 75 years.

Museum of Indian Arts and Culture has amassed a significant collection of Plains and Southwest moccasins, many beautifully beaded or quilled. They’re exhibiting them for the first time in decades in Stepping Out: 10,000 Years of Walking The West (through September). The exhibition includes sandals that date back thousands of years found in the dry caves of New Mexico and nearby regions.

Atomic Histories

A Man Standing Next To A Car

Stepping Out: 10,000 Years of Walking The West 

Center for Contemporary Arts presents Ricardo Mazal: A 15 Year Survey (though Sept. 23), an exploration of the work of this extraordinary artist over the past two decades. While you’re there, check out A Clip of Petals, a visual commentary on the pressing issue of gun control, mass shootings and the environment from artist Joerael Elliott (through Aug. 5).

The IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA) opens Action/Abstraction Redefined (Jul 27) with paintings and works on paper from the permanent collection created in the 1960s and 1970s. Don’t miss one of Santa Fe’s hidden artistic treasures. And save the date for their annual Scholarship Dinner and Auction (Aug 15), right here at the historic La Fonda on The Plaza.

And, don’t forget to save the date for the Fred Harvey weekend (Nov 2-3) and another Foodie Happening dinner at La Fonda in La Terraza, where local chefs will prepare their interpretation of dishes from the Fred Harvey era. Watch for details soon.

Ricardo Mazal: A 15 Year Survey

A Flat Screen Tv Sitting In A Room

Action/Abstraction Redefined

A Close Up Of A Logo

Speakers

Learn more about Santa Fe Opera’s Doctor Atomic in a conversation with director Peter Sellars, moderated by journalist Sam Donaldson at the Lensic (July 8), and see the film Wonders Are Many: The Making Of Doctor Atomic at the CCA, with Sellars and opera composer John Adams in person (July 12). Then explore The Mystery and Mystique Of Robert Oppenheimer with Richard Rhodes (Jul 14).

Head a short drive from Santa Fe to find out how artists and artisans create their works at the Pecos National Historic Park. Cultural demonstrators showcase their skills: Pottery with Andrea Fragua from the Pueblo of Jemez (Jul 7-8) and turkey feather blankets with Darris Lovato from Kewa Pueblo (Jul 14-15). Programs are free to the public and require no reservations.

Peter Sellars

Peter Sellars In A Red Shirt

Composer John Adams

John Adams Sitting On A Stone Wall

Andrea Fragua Pottery

  A Toy Doll Sitting On A Table

Santa Fe and La Fonda In The News

A Circuit Board    

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