Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a city pulsating with artistic expression and cultural diversity. Throughout the year, the city hosts a variety of festivals and events that showcase its rich heritage and creative spirit.
SOMOS ABQ
SOMOS ABQ is a one-day festival that celebrates Albuquerque’s creative soul. The event features live music, immersive art installations, roving performances, and hands-on creative workshops. Attendees can experience a diverse lineup of local and national artists, making it a vibrant representation of the city’s artistic community.
Hear Here Festival
The Hear Here Festival is a two-week collaborative residency and annual festival held in Albuquerque. It provides a platform for local musicians, poets, and choreographers to develop and present new works. Artists are paired blindly and have two weeks to create original pieces, culminating in performances that highlight the city’s dynamic arts scene.
Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festivals
The Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festivals are a series of juried art shows featuring artists and craftsmen from across the nation. These festivals coincide with major events like the International Balloon Fiesta, offering attendees a unique blend of art, music, and local cuisine. The festivals are held at venues such as the Sandia Resort & Casino, providing a high-energy marketplace experience.
Wavetrails Festival
The Wavetrails Festival is an experimental visual and audio experience that takes place annually in Albuquerque. The festival includes performances and visual art, featuring dance, music, spoken word, and immersive sound and holographic visual experiences. It aims to showcase unique audiovisual experiences in light and sound, making the audience an integral part of the show.
Vocal Artistry Art Song Festival
The Vocal Artistry Art Song Festival is an annual event open to students, singers, and pianists in New Mexico. It encourages the study and enjoyment of art song repertoire, featuring open performances, masterclasses, and scholarship awards. The festival celebrates the merging of poetry and music, spanning five centuries of art song tradition.
Muertos y Marigolds
Muertos y Marigolds is an annual Día de los Muertos celebration and marigold procession held in Albuquerque’s South Valley. The event includes community art workshops, a procession, and a celebration featuring local artists and performers. It honors the tradition of Día de los Muertos, bringing together community, art, and activism.
¡Globalquerque!
¡Globalquerque! is New Mexico’s annual celebration of world music and culture. Held each September at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, the festival features musicians from around the globe, offering evening concerts, workshops, films, and a Global Village of Craft, Culture & Cuisine. It provides a platform for cultural exchange and appreciation.
These events are just a glimpse into Albuquerque’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, there’s always an opportunity to engage with the city’s creative community and experience its rich cultural heritage.