Santa Fe Opera

The Santa Fe Opera was founded by the late conductor John Crosby in 1957, and its annual season is today considered one of the country’s most exciting musical events. Up-and-coming singers hone their skills here before big-city debuts, and the productions tend to be more daring than in some of the United States’ more established opera houses. The original open-air theater, perched on a hillside north of town, was replaced by an ultra-mod version complete with a roof that covers the seats and stage (gone are the days when opera fans attended performances while wearing ski underwear underneath their party gowns to ward off the nighttime desert chill). But the congenial ambience remains the same, especially on opening night, when the Santa Fe Opera is the scene of a high-end tailgate party, including chef-catered meals served with fine china, crystal and candelabras. Opera season runs from the end of June to late August; be sure to reserve hotels and restaurants far in advance if you plan on visiting during this time.