Taos Pueblo in the winter
An authentic and enchanting way to celebrate the Holiday Season.
Santa Fe, New Mexico (PRWEB) November 05, 2013
Seven Directions Custom Tours is announcing a special experience for the Holidays. From December 24 to January 6 guests will enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience by selecting from a menu of activities and locales around Northern New Mexico. In addition, the all-new flexible program allows guests to choose the length of their trip. The Holiday Season in Northern New Mexico offers an array of experiences, from world-class skiing, top-rated cuisine, art gallery shows, rejuvenating spa treatments, the Xmas concert in the Basilica, and of course, the awe-inspiring Pueblo Dances performed by the Pueblo people in villages along the Rio Grande.
Patrizia Antonicelli, owner and operator of Seven Directions states, "Our Holiday in Northern New Mexico Program resonates with so many people because of its authenticity. Nothing is staged. Guests receive a true experience of community, culture and cuisine, which all shine brightest during the holidays."
Antonicelli particularly recommends a visit to the Pueblo Indians’ villages during their Winter Ceremonies. From Christmas Eve to the beginning of January there are a multitude of performances throughout the pueblos of Northern New Mexico, usually performed from dawn to late evening. The Winter Dances, a symbolic representation of the animals’ hunt, align the dancers, and the entire pueblo, into harmony with the animal world. A variety of animals' impersonations take front stage, each one with a specific meaning: the eagle, the deer, turtle and buffalo.
A non-native dance, the Matachines, is also performed. This ancient and colorful dance belongs to the strong Spanish heritage of New Mexico and harkens back to the times of Spain’s Moorish occupation. The elaborate dances combined with the spectacular New Mexico sky and otherwordly landscapes offer an engaging and enchanting Holiday experience.
The Pueblo culture dates back over ten thousand years. The stunning ceremonies are rooted in the ancestor’s knowledge and beliefs and reflect genuine religious expression passed down throughout thousands of years. Every detail of the costumes, from masks to colors, retains a specific significance that also guides their steps and movements.
Food lovers have the opportunity to partake in authentic Santa Fe cuisine often ranked among the top in the country. The Holidays bring out the best of the restaurant scene as restaurant owners go out of their way to serve unforgettable dishes combined with unheard of service and entertainment.
Antonicelli goes on to say, "Christmas Eve is especially noteworthy as guests are able to participate with local community members on the historic Canyon Road Walk. The journey through the historic neighborhood winds through the city’s most notable art galleries, timeworn adobe homes and buildings. Hundreds of people slowly saunter up and down the historic street stopping to sip a warm cider offered by the galleries that stay open late for the occasion or warming up around the bonfires that dot the farolitos adorned roads."
The all-new Christmas and New Year’s in Northern New Mexico Program has something for everyone. Patrizia is known for her masterful planning and purposely keeps the itinerary very agile, giving guests the ability to customize the trip based upon their personal interest. Whether it’s experiencing world-class skiing in Taos or chocolate hopping at various cafes indulging in New Mexico’s famous chile-infused chocolate desserts, or taking a photography tour in some of the beautiful sceneries, the tour promises to entertain and invigorate.
Antonicelli concludes, "The community really comes to life during the holidays. Our past guests say it’s an experience they won’t soon forget. In fact, many have now made it their new holiday tradition."
For further information and media inquiries: Patrizia Antonicelli – Tel.505.820.3305
About Seven Directions Tours:
Offering over nine years of experience in the Southwest, Seven Directions | Cultural and Sustainable Tours has established itself as one of the finest sustainable tour operators in the Southwest and caters to a wide-ranging audience looking for hands-on experience that can put them in touch with the landscape and the people. Seven Directions Tours caters to large and small groups, and individuals.
