Cool List

Mark your calendar for these awesome holiday happs

As the principal for SFR's Calendar section, I can tell you that winter is definitely not the exception for the plethoric amount of cultural happenings that flood Santa Fe days and nights. During the season, holiday-themed art exhibits and extra special events make the season here all that much more special. From Venetian-style soirées to charity cook-offs, here is where your chilly frosted compass needle should point:

Thursday, Dec. 4 5 pm

GLOW

Santa Fe Botanical Garden

$8. 725 Camino Lejo

I'm including the Botanical Garden's second annual winter lights event for two reasons: A) It's a great excuse to hightail it to Museum Hill and B) Former SFR editor Julia Goldberg is a sucker for both botany and shiny things, and I'm hoping that highlighting this event gets me off her shit list. Illuminated domes, hot cocoa and fun for the whole family are to be expected. But seriously, Julia, call me.

Saturday, Dec. 6 8 pm

MASKS: The AHA Masquerade

$10. CCA, 1050 Old Pecos Trail

People who have attended lavish balls or decadent orgies can agree that masks make every party better. The fine people of the After Hours Alliance invite you to this special night that includes s'mores, performances by the likes of 13Pieces and GRYGRDNS and a cash bar by KGB Spirits. Don't be afraid to jazz up your wardrobe. According to organizers, "Formal attire is not required, but could be awesome."

Friday, Dec. 12 5:30 pm

Christmas at the Palace

Palace of the Governors

105 West Palace Ave.

The beloved event turns 30 this year. Activities include a visit from Santa and the missus, live music, piñatas, craft-making activities and a chance to operate the Palace's antique printing press. Perhaps print out a new "Nice" that includes your name and do the ol' switcheroo when the old man isn't looking.

Friday, Dec. 13 4 pm

Kindred Spirits Annual Celebration
3749-A State Road 14

Puppies are overrated. Why not give yourself the gift of sponsoring one of the sanctuary's stellar senior dogs? The day's celebration includes a tour of the sprawling grounds, meditation services and a tree lighting.

Sunday, Dec. 14 5:30 pm

Las Posadas
Santa Fe Plaza

Now this one holds a special place in my heart, as my showbiz debut was as the Baby Jesus in the Tijuana Country Club's live nativity scene. The gist: Reenactors portraying a very pregnant Mary, Joseph and yes, the devil, travel around the Plaza asking for shelter. Bring a scarf, your singing voice and if you're out of myrrh, one of those fancy multi-tiered diaper cakes should do.

Sat., Dec. 20 & Sunday Dec. 21 2 & 7:30 pm; 1 & 5 pm

The Nutcracker
$36-$72. The Lensic
211 W San Francisco St.

Aspen Santa Fe presents the perennial favorite with a few twists. Ballet, flamenco, aerial performances and even a Chinese sword dance are on the docket. Is that a slice of Gruyère in your pocket, Mouse King, or are you just happy to see me?

Wednesday, Dec. 24 dusk

Canyon Road Farolito Walk

Free. Along Canyon Road

Few things are as quintessentially Santa Fe during the season than farolitos. The illuminated brown paper bags are synonymous with Christmas in the area and have quite the sordid story (check out p. 21 for more). Get ready to be dazzled as the light-up sacks line the world-famous street and select local merchants welcome you in from the cold with bonfires and warm cider. Parents: Make sure to break out the Baby Bjørn. According to the event's website, "For the courtesy and enjoyment of everyone, please leave your strollers at home."

Saturday, Jan. 17 noon

Souper Bowl

$30. SF Convention Center,

201 W Marcy St.

The Food Depot's brothy fundraiser turn 21 this year. Does that mean Stoli Stew or Brandi Brisk will be added to the menu? There's only one way of figuring it out. Get ready for delectable soup offerings from 29 outstanding local restaurants all competing in categories like Best Cream and Best Seafood Soup. We'll raise our spoon to that.

What wintertime events are you looking forward to?
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