EXPO New Mexico will host a pair of major events that are open to the public in addition to the state’s oldest and largest Flea Market, which takes place every weekend on the Midway parking lot. The Zia Arts & Crafts Festival takes place Friday through Sunday inside the Manuel Lujan Complex, and the 2008 Bead Renaissance Fair runs Friday November 28th through Sunday November 30th in the School Arts and Flower Buildings.

“With few exceptions, there’s always something interesting and exciting going on at EXPO,” says General Manager Judith M. Espinosa. “With the big gift-giving holidays just around the corner, we’re hosting events this weekend that will make finding unique treasures for everyone on your shopping list simple and stress-free. EXPO really is the premier one-stop holiday shopping destination in Albuquerque for one-of-a-kind gifts.”

The Zia Arts & Crafts Festival takes place Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Manuel Lujan buildings A and B. Admission is $5 for adults, free for those 15 and under. More than 150 vendors of all arts and crafts varieties will have their unique wares displayed for sale. Enter at Gate 3 (San Pedro at Copper). Visit http://www.ziaartsandcrafts.net/about.htm for more information.

The 2008 Bead Renaissance takes place Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the School Arts and Flower buildings. Admission is free for all. Make this holiday memorable with handcrafted gifts for everyone. Beaded gifts will be treasured for years to come. And don’t forget about holiday decorations for the home. Beaded ornaments and garland will make the tree stand out. You’ll also find kits available for most crafts and projects. Enter at Gate 3 (San Pedro at Copper). For more information, visit: http://www.beadshow.com/shows/index.htm.