by Kyla Romero on
1 Jump into the page.
Get ready to geek out about the latest books and discover local authors this weekend at the second annual Book Fest at the ABQ Collective. “Last year we had a turnout of 600 people, it was completely unexpected,” says Katie Smith, market coordinator for the ABQ Collective. “Because it was such a success, we were like ‘Let’s do a two-day event’.” On Saturday, visitors have the chance to meet local authors, including Jordyn Cross, Christine Miles, Ryle Banks, and many more, and have their books signed. Visitors can also participate in a game of book bingo and satisfy their hunger at food trucks. On Sunday, shop from 30 vendors selling book-inspired products such as Kindle covers, bookmarks, journals, and trinkets made from book pages. Highlights include the Battle of the Book Clubs, a scavenger hunt, and a massive book wall for photo ops. “Talking about books is a need that our community wants to share together. Book Fest is able to bring that closeness,” says Smith. The free event runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. both days.
2 Transcend divisions through art.
See and shop folk art from around the world during the International Folk Art Market at Santa Fe Railyard Park. From Friday through Sunday, more than 150 artists from 53 countries gather to celebrate, share, and preserve folk art traditions. The artists come from every walk of life, ranging from rural villages to big cities and ancient sites, and create everything from traditional crafts to sensational modern pieces. Each day, a series of Insider Talks takes place at the nearby Sky Cinemas, giving marketgoers deeper insight into global art forms. Get your tickets here.
3 Mess with the bull.
Prepare for a buck-wild weekend during the WildThing Champion Bullriding event at Red Rock Park in Gallup. On Friday and Saturday, watch top New Mexico riders face the toughest bulls in the region, along with other nail-biting events, including woolly riding and cowboy poker. The grand finale includes a fireworks show and more than $26,000 in prize payouts. All proceeds from concessions, merch, and parking will be donated to the Manuelito Navajo Children’s Home in Gallup. The entire event is cash only, so don’t forget to hit the ATM before you arrive.
4 Bloom together.
Celebrate the unique spirit of Las Cruces’s community, creativity, and culture during the outdoor Desert Bloom Festival, a 710 Weekend marketplace at TheBank. On Friday, the market runs from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., with a full day of creativity and culture continuing on Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. The event includes local artists and makers, cannabis and hemp vendors, food trucks, live music, community organizations, and family-friendly activities.
5 Celebrate mariachi.
Experience the heart of mariachi during the Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque Concert at the Sandia Resort and Casino on Saturday. The evening features renowned mariachi musicians, folklórico performers, vocalists, and the student winners of the Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque Showcase Competition Concert, which is held on Friday night. Audiences experience a variety of styles that portray the tradition and history of mariachi while inspiring the next generation of musicians. Purchase tickets here.
For more things to do, check out our online calendar of events.