Albuquerque, NM- This year, New Mexico enters its 100th year of statehood and many celebrations are planned across the state. In Albuquerque, celebrations include year-long events and festivals featuring performances, educational programs and art exhibitions that depict the strong history and culture New Mexico possesses. As Albuquerque’s Mayor Richard Berry says, you can “experience a place where the modern city skyline is set against the backdrop of the ancient cultures of the Southwest.”

Year-long Centennial exhibitions:

  • “Dinosaur Century” at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science: Visitors can examine fossils discovered in New Mexico within the last 100 years that have yet to be shown to the public.
  • “Albuquerque Celebrates 1912” at The Albuquerque Museum of Art & History: Visitors have the opportunity to view authentic artifacts, photos and textiles that date back to 1912, the year New Mexico became a state. 
  • “A Century of High Flying: Science, Space and Sport" at the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum: Visitors can learn about 100 years of flight in New Mexico, aerospace medicine or even top secret projects. 
  • “100 Years of State & Federal Policy: Its Impact on Pueblo Nations” at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center: Visitors can experience a personalized portrayal of Pueblo Indian history by drawing connections between the human experience and the enacted policies.

Centennial Summerfest
On June 16th, Downtown Albuquerque will host Centennial Summerfest, a daylong experience celebrating New Mexico statehood. Five pavilions along Route 66 will feature exciting New Mexico themes: Hispanic Heritage, Native American Stage, World Stage, Route 66 Rock and Rockabilly and a Territorial Village. Throughout the day, visitors will enjoy free concerts by artists like Albuquerque’s own Al Hurricane, Jr. and Grammy winning group, Los Lobos.  The event will have something for everyone.

For more information on the Centennial celebration in Albuquerque, visit www.abqcentennial.com. For more information on the Centennial Celebration throughout the state of New Mexico, visit www.nmcentennial.org.