Neighbors and Friends
Sundance Mesa has roughly 400 residents. Some are native to the area, some are not, and some of our neighbors serve the community by volunteering and others create beautiful things.
Artists Living in Our Community
Placitas and Sundance Mesa is home to many artists. A studio tour is held each May and participating artists open their homes and home studios to the public. It is a great opportunity to enjoy and purchase fine jewelry, fiber arts, ceramics and pottery, glass, photography, woodworking, painting and drawing. This well advertised event draws people from Placitas and the greater Albuquerque and Santa Fe area.
Casa Rosa Food Pantry
Sometimes people just need a hand up and Casa Rosa provides that help in Placitas. This all volunteer organization distributes food throughout the year and blankets, coats and other winter gear in cold months. By forming a critical partnership with Road Runner Food Bank every $1.00 donated turns into $9.00 worth of food. This very worthwhile part of our community is always looking for volunteers and donations.
Coronado Historic Site
Located just minutes from Sundance Mesa this historic Pueblo ruin was occupied between about 1325-1600. When the Pueblo was excavated in the 1930s, the archeologists discovered a painted Kiva (ceremonial chamber) in the south plaza. The Kiva Murals represent some of the finest examples of Pre-Columbian art ever found in the United States. There is much to see and do at the site and it is a wonderful place to take guests for an introduction into Pueblo Life. An active Friends Group supports ongoing discovery and preservation at the site. Coronado Historic Site
Jardineros de Placitas (The Garden Club)
For over fifty years the Jardineros has been a leading social and charitable organization serving the Placitas community and supporting worthy causes throughout Sandoval County. There are many opportunities to volunteer and serve as well as numerous interest groups to join. Membership is open to all Placitas residents. For more information visit Jardineros de Placitas.
Placitas Artist Series
Creating beautiful music in the high desert for over thirty years, the Placitas Artist Series enjoys a special place in our community. Concerts are held at Las Placitas Presbyterian Church to an almost always full house. The organization also promotes local art and regional music talent and has an active outreach program to local schools.
Placitas Community Library
Our library is truly a community effort. The primary operational funding comes from individual donations and the library is staffed and directed by volunteers. There is a broad range of educational activities throughout the year. The library also provides the community with a meeting room for small groups. To become involved visit Placitas Library.
Wildlife of Sundance Mesa
To live in the desert, many species have developed physical characteristics and behaviors to survive in the environment. Most can conserve water, and some avoid activity during the heat of the day. Look at our Wildlife page for information about common birds, animals, and reptiles seen in the high desert area of Sundance Mesa.