New Mexico is a land of subtle, everyday wonders that lodge themselves in your memory, making you long for its distinctive atmosphere when you’re away. Here are ten unexpected small things about New Mexico that might make you homesick:
1. The Scent of Roasting Green Chile
In late summer and early fall, the aroma of freshly roasted green chile fills the air at roadside stands and supermarkets, a smell unique to New Mexico and impossible to replicate elsewhere.
2. Luminarias Lighting Up the Night
During the holidays, paper lanterns (luminarias) line walkways and rooftops, casting a warm, magical glow that’s a hallmark of New Mexico winter nights.
3. The Crunch of Biscochitos
The state cookie, biscochitos—crisp, anise-flavored, and dusted with cinnamon sugar—are a staple at celebrations and a taste you’ll crave when you’re far from home.
4. Red and Green Chile on Everything
The ubiquitous choice between red or green chile (or “Christmas” for both) on your enchiladas, burritos, and even burgers is a daily ritual you’ll miss anywhere else.
5. The Sound of Matachines Dance Drums
The rhythmic drumbeats and jingle of dancers’ bells during traditional Matachines performances are a cultural heartbeat you won’t hear outside New Mexico.
6. The Whistle of the Constant Wind
New Mexico’s ever-present wind, rustling through junipers and stirring up dust, is a sound and sensation that defines the landscape and lingers in memory.
7. The Sight of Ristras Drying in the Sun
Strings of red chiles (ristras) hanging from porches and market stalls are a vibrant, iconic sight and a promise of flavor to come.
8. The Taste of Fresh Posole and Tamales
Home-cooked posole and tamales, especially during the holidays, are comfort foods that evoke a sense of belonging and tradition.
9. The Unpredictable Weather Patterns
The dramatic shifts—snow one day, sun the next, or even a sudden haboob—are a quirky, sometimes frustrating, but always memorable part of life in New Mexico.
10. The Call of the Roadrunner
Spotting a roadrunner darting across the road or hearing its distinctive call is a small, joyful reminder of the state’s unique wildlife and wild spirit.
These little things, woven into daily life, create a sense of place that’s hard to forget and impossible to fully recreate anywhere else.
Sources:
- https://folklife.si.edu/talkstory/autumn-in-bernalillo-new-mexico-pueblo-traditions-and-querencia
- https://www.unitedvanlines.com/moving-tips/blog/living-in-new-mexico
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/poll-strangest-thing-mexico-120000571.html
- https://www.reddit.com/r/NewMexico/comments/1cj2qvm/what_are_the_strangest_eeriest_places_in_new/