Rev. Timothy A. Martinez

Free

Fiesta officially begins at 6 AM at the Pregón de la Fiesta on Fiesta Friday. The faithful of Santa Fe gather to complete the promise made by Governor Don Diego de Vargas in September of 1692 upon his arrival in Santa Fe.

The Mayor of Santa Fe issues the formal proclamation declaring the start of the annual festivity. The speech includes original text from September 16, 1712 when the City Council of Santa Fe established Fiesta de Santa Fe, including the declaration which calls for Vespers, Masses, Sermon and Procession through the plaza in thanksgiving to La Conquistadora for her intercession in 1692. The declaration also calls for “merriment by all citizens”.

Hot Chocolate and Biscochitos Hot chocolate and biscochitos, a melt-in-your-mouth-can’t-have-just-one shortbread cookie, are enjoyed by everyone immediately following the Pregón. The hot beverage was also served by Don Diego de Vargas during his negotiations with the Pueblo People of New Mexico in 1692.