Since July of 2003, people of every age, race, background, and ethnicity have been gathering weekly in the backyard of Gregory’s house to hang out with each other and share their creative gifts. In response to a lack of a casual community gathering place in Santa Fe, the Café was created as an on-going exploration of what is possible when people gather together regularly and take on the responsibility of being an active member of community. We all want it but are often not sure how to make it happen. The Café is fertile ground.

Music is a central element of the scene, bringing out the talents of many great local singers, musicians, dancers, poets and storytellers. One can hear the range of sounds from Afro-Haitian voudou songs to Latino ballads to Arabic instrumentals to Flamenco improvisations. The Café has been a great place for musicians and artists to network and inspire each other towards further projects.

In the winter months there is a weekly tipi gathering on Friday nights. Loosely following the Native American tradition, the main focus is on the nurturing of the community circle. Respect and listening are key elements within the tipi, with the central fire providing the light, heat and heart of the circle. There is much to be learned from participating in the circle and we are all given the chance to remember the lessons of our Spirit Ancestors whom we honor with prayers and ritual. We all take turns to offer whatever it is we have brought to the circle to share. Everyone is encouraged to bring something to share, even if it’s simply an open mind. All who wish to participate in the tipi circle should first read the ‘Tipi Rap’ posted on the porch. Alcohol and cigarettes are discouraged in the circle. Also, we are always looking for tipi firewood, the best being pieces 3-4 feet long and 2-4 inches wide. No Pinon please (too smokey!).