Birthday Bash: Albuquerque’s New Mexico Centennial Summerfest, June 16
Celebrate New Mexico’s Centennial June 16 with music, food, dancing, car shows, an arts market, children’s activities and more.
A party like this only comes around once every 100 years. On June 16, our neighbors to the south celebrate 100 years of New Mexico statehood with The Albuquerque Centennial Summerfest.
Traffic will shut down in Albuquerque on Central Avenue between Second and Tenth Street in order to make room for five themed stages hosting some 36 performers, a vintage and lowrider car show, art displays, a delectable food court and a host of other family-friendly activities. At around 6 p.m., the festival shifts to the Civic Plaza main stage, which hosts performances by up-and-coming country performer Will Bannister, Grammy-winning Native American performer Robert Mirabal and East Los Angeles rock band Los Lobos.
“This is the largest event in New Mexico to commemorate our state’s 100 years of statehood.,” said Albuquerque Mayor Richard Berry. “Centennial Summerfest is a chance for visitors to—in one day—experience the rich cultural history of New Mexico.”
A territorial village in Robinson Park will host a chuck wagon, blacksmithing, musket fighting recreations and a matanza-style pork cookout. The “100 for 100 Art Market” presents artwork from throughout the state.
There are a variety of ways to reach the event via public transportation. The New Mexico Rail Runner will offer an extended schedule and lets off at the downtown station, located just two blocks away from the festival. View the schedule.
Buses throughout Albuquerque offer transport directly to the event and the ABQ Trolley will make continuous loops around the event, providing respite for those who can’t walk around the event.
Stages throughout the event showcase the rich history and culture of New Mexico with performances by some three dozen acts, including the Fireballs, Le Chat Lunatique, Son Como Son, Cowboys & Indians, Al Hurricane and son, Bill and Bonnie Hearne, the Ehecatl Aztec Dancers and more. For a full list of performers, visit the full schedule.
Visit the Centennial Summerfest website for general information.
When You Go:
Albuquerque’s Centennial Summerfest
Noon to 9:30 p.m., June 16
Downtown Albuquerque
