“WE HAVE ONE of the most culturally diverse state fairs in the country,” says Dan Mourning, general manager of Expo New Mexico.
No doubt there’s a lot packed into the fair’s 236 acres: a powwow at Indian Village and Hispanic Heritage Day at Villa Hispana, both on September 13; live gospel music every Sunday at the Alice K. Hoppes African American Pavilion, as well as jazz, reggae, funk, and other music and dance events. Roaming musicians play bluegrass, rancheras, and other traditional music that speaks to the melding of cultures in the Land of Enchantment.
“We also consider our art galleries among our cultural heritage attractions,” says Mourning, noting the hundreds of juried competitions in Native, Hispanic, and African American arts and home arts ranging from canning to quilting.
“The powwow and Hispanic Heritage Day are excellent family events, with so much amazing food, music, and culture all in one place,” he says. “The vibe is outstanding.”
➤ Art takes center stage too. See how 1,400 creative competitions showcase talent at the fair.