John Dunn House Shops ring in the return of holiday happiness D AY - L O N G , S A F E C E L E B R AT I O N O F B O N F I R E S O N B E N T S T R E E T BY DENA MILLER
The arrival of the holiday season is always tinged with anticipation but this year the possibilities for the month feel larger; a little more special. After a year of uncertainty, we say “Bring on an abundance of winter joy – frosty mornings and cozy fires; sparkling lights and glowing farolitos; steaming hot chocolate and melt-in-your-mouth biscochitos; gaily wrapped presents waiting to be gifted to family and friends. And on Saturday, Dec. 11, let’s give a big “welcome back” to Bonfires on Bent Street, one of the town’s most beloved December activities. The day-long event begins in the John
Dunn House Shops pedestrian mall, where merchants will keep the fires burning while you enjoy music, shopping, refreshments and a whole lot of holiday cheer. And as the day wanes, the shops along Bent Street
Pre-pandemic holidays at John Dunn House Shops.
FILE
PHOTO
TAOS AGLOW 2021
unite with their neighbors to spread the fun even more. It’s the perfect time to grab the best gift selections and avoid the headache of last-minute shopping. “The Bent Street merchants will again join with us to host this spectacular holiday celebration,” said Polly Raye, owner of John Dunn House Shops. “From 4 to 7 p.m. Bent Street will be closed to traffic and all of our shops will be open.” “The Aztec Dancers plan to come at 4 p.m. to spread their blessings for the town: much needed after our months of new challenges,” Raye continued. “After their dances, other performers are welcome to share their talents and we especially encourage your friends or caroling group to gather around a bonfire to share your singing.” The annual celebration – now 32 years old – is always held close to the winter solstice, Raye noted. “From Neolithic times, gatherings and feasts have been a traditional part of solstice festivities: a way of celebrating the light within and without, and of sharing and giving thanks for all that we are given.” Because the Bent Street and John Dunn Shops are all locally owned by friends and neighbors, Raye noted “The merchants offer this celebration as a way to both thank everyone for their yearround friendship and support, and to make new friends.” Start your walk at the independently owned op.cit. Books Taos. In addition to journals, calendars and cards, and a selection of intriguing stocking stuffers, owner Noemi de Bodisco always recommends books as the perfect gift. “This year saw an explosion of new books, from the hottest authors to exciting newcomers,” she enthused. The staff will be happy to assist in your selection of a great read from The New York Times “Best of the Year” list. La Tierra Mineral Gallery offers truly unique fossils, carvings, rare minerals and Zuni fetishes for the most out-of-the-ordinary holiday selections to grace any home decor. Plus, you’ll always find a welcome gift among their extensive collection of artisan jewelry. (Insider tip: kids love the rock-collecting section.) Winter weather requires great winter boots and Steppin’ Out never disap-
34
TAOSNEWS.COM/MAGAZINES/TAOS-AGLOW
LAS CO M AD RE S G ALLE RY
points with its trend-worthy yet timeless footwear from brands like Pikolinos, Born, Taos, Miz Mooz and Arcopedico. Ladies clothing and accessories are distinctive and top-notch, and the upstairs sale rack is always a goldmine. If your favorite woman or man is looking to accessorize their beloved broken-in jeans, then MODA and Clarke & Co. are the places to go. Specializing in cozy and comfortable clothing for the mountain lifestyle. These alter-ego shops now carry Pendleton clothes, bags and yoga mats, and also have flannels, vests and sweaters by dylan and True Grit. Across the way you’ll find toasty women’s hats, Irish merino wool sweaters, holiday sabeku tee shirts and more at Little Place Boutique. Shopping for kids? Amina’s Children’s Boutique is fully stocked with holiday finery for infants to tweens, alongside toys and cuddly stuffed animals. Of course, you’ll find a great selection of everyday wear, warm boots, shoes and jackets for all the youngsters in your life, as well. (Hint: babies have given their seal of approval to Amina’s charmingly crafted line of teething necklaces. A gift for a harried mom?) Colorful folk art, Dia de los Muertos regalia, block prints and funky jewelry reside side-by-side at Coyote Moon, much of it made by owner Luís Garcia. His neighbor, Ammann Gallery, is stocked with fine New Mexican crafts representing over 24 artisans offering lots of gift ideas for distant family and friends needing a little Southwestern magic in their holidays.
