In a year unlike any other, a Santa Fe Christmas tradition continues.
And by all accounts, preparations for the celebration of candlelight appeared this week to be just as busy as in years past.
Although the decades-old tradition of an evening stroll along a farolito-lined Canyon Road â complete with thousands of people, carolers, bonfires and open shops â has morphed into a drive-by event, art galleries said they were preparing to lay out hundreds of farolitos.
But just how many shops along the vehicle-only route would take part in the festivities remained an open question Wednesday, said Carlos Acosta, a gallery owner on Canyon Road and co-president of the Canyon Road Merchants Association.
Rev up your engines: This yearâs Canyon Road Farolito Walk on Christmas Eve will be tailored for cruising, not strolling.
City officials said the change will allow spectators to enjoy the decades-old holiday tradition â in which businesses and residents on Canyon Road and surrounding streets light thousands of farolitos â while maintaining pandemic-safe practices in the comfort of their vehicles.
âEveryone is looking for creative ways to keep these traditions alive,â said Kristine Mihelcic, the cityâs constituent and council services director.
The eventâs shift to a drive-thru viewing comes as New Mexico officials continue to ban large public gatherings to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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