Warning: Missing argument 2 for wpdb::prepare(), called in /var/www/vhosts/abqsummerfest.com/httpdocs/wp-content/themes/curtail/functions.php on line 95 and defined in /var/www/vhosts/abqsummerfest.com/httpdocs/wp-includes/wp-db.php on line 990
New Mexico Centennial Summerfest — Free Concert featuring Los Lobos — Albuquerque, New Mexico http://abqsummerfest.com Fri, 08 Jun 2012 23:05:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5 Centennial Summerfest: Getting There is Easy – Dining There is Fun! http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/05/centennial-summerfest-getting-there-is-easy-dining-there-is-fun/ http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/05/centennial-summerfest-getting-there-is-easy-dining-there-is-fun/#comments Thu, 31 May 2012 21:40:56 +0000 Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/?p=515 Native American Pavilion to Feature Demonstrations by Area Artists

ALBUQUERQUE NM—One of the first things people consider when heading to a very large public event is traffic, parking and access to all that is going on. And, the big question, “What kind of food will they have?”  For months the Centennial Summerfest planning team has been working to ensure that the event offers great solutions to those questions.

First, getting there will be less stressful for those who choose public transportation. The event begins at Noon and runs until 9:30 p.m.  If you are coming from north or south, the Rail Runner will have an extended schedule to ensure that all riders are able to relax and enjoy the trip. With the downtown station just a short two blocks from the east end of the event at 3rd and Central Avenue, access couldn’t be easier. For a complete Rail Runner Centennial Summerfest schedule, visit www.ABQSummerfest.com and click on Transportation & Parking.

For those within the Albuquerque area, two ABQ Ride Park & Ride locations will provide bus service direct to the event. From the east, the UNM Football Stadium at University Blvd. and Avenida César Chávez will offer plenty of parking with drop-off/pickup at the PNM Building on Silver between 4th and 5th Streets. From the west, the K-Mart at Central Ave. and Atrisco will offer parking and regular service to Central Ave. between 8th and 10th Streets.

Once visitors have arrived, another transportation service will be available for those who do not wish to walk the entire event. ABQ Trolley will be making continuous loops around the event on Copper Ave. (one block north of Central) and Gold Ave. (one block south of Central). Pick up locations on both streets are at 3rd, 5th and 7th Streets.

Those who choose to drive to the event should prepare for greatly increased traffic. Paid City parking will be available at the Acropolis (220 Copper Ave. NW), Civic Plaza (3rd & Marquette NW), the Convention Center (MLK at Broadway NE), 2nd and Gold SW (near Century Theatres), and 5th and Copper NW. Many downtown parking areas will be designated for performers, exhibitors, vendors and volunteers and will not offer public access.

Once there, a veritable feast awaits the visitor! Starting with the Food Court on Central Ave. between 2nd and 3rd, a variety of delicious taste treats will tempt the most discerning palate: dinners including meat loaf, pot roast, chicken, and pasta; gourmet burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs, fajitas, burritos, quesadillas and more; a large selection of ice cream flavors from Baskin-Robbins and Cold Stone Creamery; plus gourmet coffees and shaved ice.

On Central and 3rd, the Hispanic Heritage Stage and Pavilion will feature a menu of authentic New Mexican foods. At the World Beat Stage and Pavilion, fresh sushi and Italian fare will bring an international flavor. At Central and 5th, the Native American Stage and Pavilion will be serving fry bread, Indian tacos and buffalo burgers on fry bread.

For a bit of nostalgia, visit the Rock and Rockabilly Stage and Pavilion located at 5th and Central to try the turkey and beef TV dinners with mashed potatoes-a great memory for grownups raised in the “50s and ’60s. An ice cream parlor offering soda fountain treats will fit right in with the diner décor.

At the Central and 7th Street location of the Office of African American Affairs Juneteenth Stage and Pavilion the aroma of Mr. Powdrell’s BBQ and great Southern cooking will draw in the crowds to taste the family recipes that have delighted several generations of Albuquerqueans. And at the “100 for 100″ Art Show on 7th Street north of Central, a menu of aqua fresca, shaker salads, fruit cups and more will please those who want lighter fare.

Robinson Park (Central between 8th and 10th) will feature the Territorial Village. And what could be more fitting than a real chuck wagon featuring a matanza-delicious pork prepared the traditional way?

In addition to the large food court and themed offerings from each Pavilion, there will be beverage stations staged along the route, and ice cream cart vendors strolling Central Avenue. One thing is certain, there is no excuse for leaving Centennial Summerfest hungry!

And, as visitors stroll up and down Central enjoying the music, exhibits, art, Science & Technology and more, they can find protection from the sun at the Information Booths located on Central Ave. between 2nd and 3rd Streets, and between 7th and 8th Streets. Centennial Summerfest commemorative caps and pins can be purchased there, as well as sunblock.

Centennial Summerfest is New Mexico’s largest Centennial celebration and features six different stages and pavilions along Central Avenue, a vintage car show, “100 for 100 Art Market” featuring art from throughout the state, food vendors, a Science & Technology Center and much more.

The event begins at Noon and the pavilions will close at 6 p.m. when the Main Stage becomes the focal point for the evening. The opening acts on the Main Stage at 3rd and Central include popular country singer Will Banister, and Native American Grammy®-winning flute player Robert Mirabal. At 8 p.m. the multiple Grammy-winning band Los Lobos will take the stage to rock the night away until the close of Centennial Summerfest at 9:30 p.m.

Centennial Summerfest is a collaborative effort between the City of Albuquerque, Richard J. Berry, Mayor, and Bernalillo County.  Sponsors for the event are Century Link, Coca-Cola, the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, the Albuquerque Journal, Cumulus Media, KRQE News 13 and 2 KASA Fox.  This event is produced by the City’s Cultural Services Department.  For additional details on all City cultural events, visit www.cabq.gov/cultural-services or call 311. TTY users call 711.

]]>
http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/05/centennial-summerfest-getting-there-is-easy-dining-there-is-fun/feed/ 0
Celebrate Juneteenth at Centennial Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/05/celebrate-juneteenth-at-centennial-summerfest/ http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/05/celebrate-juneteenth-at-centennial-summerfest/#comments Fri, 25 May 2012 21:38:19 +0000 Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/?p=512 Native American Pavilion to Feature Demonstrations by Area Artists

ALBUQUERQUE NM—When the New Mexico Office of African American Affairs learned of plans for the giant June 16th Centennial Summerfest event in downtown Albuquerque, they decided that it was the perfect opportunity to collaborate with the City of Albuquerque, Bernalillo County, and the Albuquerque Juneteenth Committee to celebrate an important day in the African American culture and spread the history to a vast audience who otherwise may not know about Juneteenth! In 2006, the New Mexico Legislature approved an act that designated June 19th as “Juneteenth Freedom Day.”

The result is an ambitious program of live entertainment, the participation of organizations and vendors, and the introduction to the history, culture, music, dance and experiences of the African Americans who are our friends and neighbors.

Beginning with the opening of Centennial Summerfest at Noon, the stage will present “Call of the Drums,” a traditional drumming circle based on African Heritage. Next come performances of youth from around the state who are participating in a state church convention that will have the crowds swaying and clapping to their joyous sounds. Their talents include gospel rap, praise dancing, choral performance and gospel soloists.

Gospel singer Rosalind Jones takes the stage at 1:40 p.m. to raise her powerful voice in praise. Her long ministry with husband, Pastor J. L’Keith Jones, is testament to her commitment to sharing her faith with the world through music and service to others.

Prominent member of Albuquerque’s African American community, Joe Powdrell, will share the history of Juneteenth with the crowd at 2 p.m., telling of his efforts to establish the annual celebration in our area. At 2:20 p.m., Sweet Life with Rodney Bowe follows his presentation.

“Songbird in Flight” Shirlette Weathersby’s extensive vocal range led to a successful singing career in which she performs a wide variety of music. But her heart returns to gospel as she shares her gift with the world. She has performed throughout the US, in Panama, the Philippines and many other venues. She also appears at the Sunday Gospel Brunch at the Sheraton Uptown Hotel. Her performance is scheduled for 2:45 p.m.

“Fearless” is the description of the female gospel rap artist who will perform from 3:05 – 3:15 p.m., followed at 3:20 p.m. by the Phillips CME Choir-a raising of voices that will draw large crowds.

At 3:40 p.m. Brenda Marley and The Casualz, Doug TerBush, John Basile and Ruben Montoya, bring their versatile talents to the OAAA Juneteenth Stage to perform jazz favorites. And, at 3:55 p.m. The Steppin’ Disciples for Christ Bible Drill Team bring their impressive knowledge of Scripture and other important elements of their faith to an inspiring performance that involves steps, songs and testimony to their commitment to involving other youths in making good choices for their lives. The group has competed in the National Baptist Convention Bible Competition for five years, being named National Champions in 2009 and 2010.

Next up on the stage will be Of the Essence, some of Albuquerque’s finest musicians and vocalists presenting music that uplifts and inspires. The seven-piece band will perform from 4:20 – 4:35 p.m., followed by dance team Trey and Vanessa.

Closing out the afternoon from 5:15 – 6 p.m. is Albuquerque favorite, songbird Cathryn McGill, whose soulful sound attracts audiences of all ages and musical tastes. Long established as one of New Mexico’s top vocal talents, she brings with her sweet soulfulness, worldly assurance and appealing stage presence. The singer/songwriter performs all over the country, creating new fans wherever she goes.

Adjacent to the OAAA Juneteenth Stage will be a large Pavilion filled with a variety of vendors and organizations that include an information booth sponsored by OAAA, the presence of Sickle Cell of New Mexico, Breast Cancer Research Center, Booker Woodard sharing brochures on culture and Black History, and Dino Hall distributing materials on free prostrate exams for men over 50. The NAACP will also have a presence sharing information on fighting discrimination and civil rights. Vendors include Pearls of the Antilles Art, Blessed Creations, Design by Ms. S, Nell’s Black Art & Things, and authors Theresa Thaxton, From Waiting to Wedding, and Don Grady, (former Santa Fe Chief of Police), The Injustice of Justice.

And of course, the wonderful aroma and taste of Mr. Powdrell’s BBQ will draw visitors into the Pavilion for a taste of great Southern cooking!  Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings.

The Centennial Summerfest in Albuquerque, the largest event in New Mexico celebrating 100 years of statehood, will feature popular genres of music on six different stages along Central Avenue, a Territorial Village, Science & Technology Center, a juried art exhibition, food vendors, a Kid’s Fun Zone, and much more.  The event begins at Noon and ramps up at 6 p.m. when the Main Stage becomes the focal point for the evening with a performance by the multiple Grammy®-winning band, “Los Lobos.”

Centennial Summerfest is produced by the City of Albuquerque, Richard J. Berry, Mayor. For additional details on all special events, please call 311. TTY users call 711.

]]>
http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/05/celebrate-juneteenth-at-centennial-summerfest/feed/ 0
Award-Winning Native American Singer at Centennial Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/05/award-winning-native-american-singer-at-centennial-summerfest/ http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/05/award-winning-native-american-singer-at-centennial-summerfest/#comments Thu, 10 May 2012 21:35:05 +0000 Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/?p=506 Native American Pavilion to Feature Demonstrations by Area Artists

ALBUQUERQUE NM—Visitors to the June 16th Centennial Summerfest will have the opportunity to experience the best of New Mexico culture through six stages and pavilions that celebrate our history and diversity.

Located at 5th and Central adjacent to the KiMo Theatre, itself a historic and artistic treasure, the Native American Stage and Pavilion will offer great live entertainment and prominent Native American artists demonstrating their work and interacting with the crowds. The Pavilion opens at Noon and will close at 6 p.m.

Recently added to the full lineup of live onstage entertainment is Shelly Morningsong, whose album “Full Circle,” won “2011 Record of the Year” at the Native American Music Awards. Her 2006 debut album, “Out of the Ashes,” won three prestigious awards, including the New Mexico Music Award for “Best Native Contemporary Music,” the Wisconsin Indian Summer Festival award for “Classic Rock,” and the Native American Music Award for “Debut Artist of the Year.”
Morningsong’s ability to fuse together traditional Native American instrumentation with a mainstream sound is something her fans old and young alike love and admire about her music. Shelley Morningsong comes from a musically talented family. She grew up singing and playing guitar, and at 17 joined a country rock band called Hearts of the West that opened up for Charlie Daniels and Juice Newton at the Sweet Water Café in Redondo Beach, CA. Her musical influences include such great talents as Bonnie Raitt, Rosanne Cash, and Old Blues legend Buddy Guy. Shelley was a touring member of Robert Mirabal’s “Music from a Painted Cave” presented by PBS Great Performances. Shelly Morningsong will perform on the Native American Stage from 5 – 6 p.m.

The entertainment lineup brings very exciting acts to the Native American Stage:

Storyteller, model, singer, and motivational speaker Onawa Lacy of the Navajo Nation will introduce live entertainment that begins at Noon and ends at 5 p.m.

Gathering of Nations Tribal Dancers, who will take the stage from Noon – 12:45 pm, 1:45 – 2 p.m., 2:45 – 3 p.m., and 3:45 – 4 p.m., represent the many Native American groups found within New Mexico. These dancers in their elaborate costumes inspire the crowds as they repeat the intricate patterns that represent the many forms of Native dance.

Accompanying the dancers is Grammy®-winning group Black Eagle Singers, who received the “Best Native American Music” Grammy in 2003 for the album, “Flying Free.” Black Eagle sang before an audience of 100,000 at the opening ceremony of the National Museum of the American Indian at the Smithsonian in Washington, DC, and performed at the pre-telecast ceremony for the Grammy awards in 2006.

At 1 p.m. Pueblo Country brings its traditional take on country music. The five-member band performs regularly around the state and brings a sound that evokes images of rusted pickups on back roads, Saturday night dances and a people who survive in spite of it all.

At 2 p.m. Levi Platero and the Plateros change the musical tone to a blues rock sound. From their small beginnings at a small church gathering in Birdspring, Arizona, they were invited to the biggest pow-wow in the world, They bring to the stage a power gained from years of performing, making this young group solid pros, while others their age are still finding their way.

At 3 p.m. Native Roots, a genre-melding band dedicated to the sound and spirit of Reggae music rooted by Native American tradition. Their many appearances on the national stage include the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, the Sundance Film Festival and the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, as well as many others.

At 4 p.m. the comedy act of James and Ernie will close out the afternoon entertainment with their hilarious take on Native American life and current affairs. Recipients of the 2009 “Comedians of the Year” at the North American indigenous Image Awards, (US and Canada), they have played and hosted at some of Native America’s most popular entertainment events, such as the Native American Music Awards and the Gathering of Nations, and have headlined at several casinos in the southwest region.

Artists who will demonstrate their work in the Native American Pavilion are:

Dina Velarde (Jicarilla Apache), a potter and photographer from Northern New Mexico who is a graduate of the Institute of American Arts.

Daniel Ramirez (Saginaw Chippewa tribe of Michigan) A painter of contemporary woodland images in memory of his mother. He received a bachelors and master of fine art from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Nanabah Aragon (Navajo), a master weaver/singer from Steamboat, Arizona who has been weaving since the age of 8. She was awarded the Arizona Living Treasures and the Living Treasures for the Gallup Inter Tribal Ceremonial honors. She had shown her work at The Heard Museum, The Santa Fe Indian Market, and the New Mexico State fair.

Allen Aragon (Navajo/Spanish), a jeweler and potter, Allen is credited with merging two mediums, sliver and pottery. He was awarded the Goodman fellowship (The Southwest Association for Indian Arts), and has exhibited at the Santa Fe Indian Market, The Heard Museum, Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, The Smithsonian Museum of The American Indian, The Museum of Man, The Autry Nation Center and the Eiteljorg Museum.

Caroline Sarracino-Garcia (AKA Evening Star – Acoma Pueblo) did not begin making pottery until she was in her mid-20s, unlike most Native American potters who begin in childhood. She will demonstrate painting traditional Acoma pottery using the leaf of the yucca which is their native paint brush for pottery.

David Behrens comes from a different background (German/Sicilian), and people wonder how he can so accurately portray a people not his own. He attributes his work to God in the hope that his art brings a sense of healing. His dream-like montages are the result of an oil glazing technique that dates back to the early Italian Renaissance period. To achieve the effect, David builds up many different layers of translucent oil washes.  His artwork can be seen in many galleries throughout the country and at many prestigious Indian Art Markets.

Also participating in the Native American Pavilion is The Gathering of Nations, a Native American Indian non-profit organization founded in 1983 to promote Native American, American Indian (indigenous) culture and tradition, and dispel stereotypes created about Native American Indian and indigenous people. The group produces the huge Pow-Wow that brings thousands of Native Americans to Albuquerque each year for this special event.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, whose mission it is to preserve and perpetuate Pueblo culture and to advance understanding by presenting with dignity and respect, the accomplishments and evolving history of the Pueblo people of New Mexico will also have a presence.

This large Centennial event will offer visitors the opportunity to learn more about Native American history and culture from these organizations and about Native American art from those demonstrating their special talents.

Centennial Summerfest is produced by the City of Albuquerque, Richard J. Berry, Mayor. For additional details on all special events, please call 311. TTY users call 711.

]]>
http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/05/award-winning-native-american-singer-at-centennial-summerfest/feed/ 0
World Stage at Centennial Summerfest Offers Diversity of Musical Cultures http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/04/world-stage-at-centennial-summerfest-offers-diversity-of-musical-cultures/ http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/04/world-stage-at-centennial-summerfest-offers-diversity-of-musical-cultures/#comments Wed, 11 Apr 2012 19:06:36 +0000 Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/?p=353 Crowd Pleasers Range From Opera to Jazz, Japanese Drumming to Salsa, and More

ALBUQUERQUE NM—The Albuquerque Centennial Summerfest will present live entertainment on five stages positioned on Central Avenue between 2nd and 10th Streets. The World Stage, located at 4th Street and Central Avenue, will offer an incredible variety of sights and sounds that bring cultural diversity in musical styles.

From the Coleman Academy of Irish Dance come step dancers of all ages who will tear up the stage floor with their intricate and exciting patterns performed to rollicking Irish tunes. The mood quickly changes when Wagogo takes the stage to perform. This eclectic group of musicians makes a rhythmic cocktail out of their Chicano influences, Northern Mexico folk songs, warm calypso island grooves, and the captivating spirit music of Zimbabwe.

As unpredictable, fearless, and entertaining as their namesake, Le Chat Lunatique purveys an addictive genre they call “filthy, mangy jazz,” a signature sound that honors Le jazz hot of Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli while navigating through a wide range of genres, blending Western swing, classical, reggae and doo wop into strikingly original compositions.

Switching to a completely different mood, Opera Southwest will bring a touch of class with memorable scenes from famous operas. The thrilling sound of truly magnificent voices soaring to impossible heights will leave the crowd spellbound.

For a total change of pace, Taikko Drumming-breaking their own sound barrier to imbue the listener with a visceral experience that fills all of the senses. The audience will truly feel their performance.

Son Como Son brings a hot Latin beat to the stage that defies their audience to remain immobile. From salsa to cha cha, merenge to timba, this is the band that keeps Albuquerque on their feet and thrills listeners who feel they have experienced true Latin rhythms.

PANdemonium leader Frank Leto brings a wide variety of cultural musical forms such as calypso, reggae, Hawaiian, jazz, blues, salsa, samba, rumba, zydeco, African and Native American, all of which are played on traditional instruments. This highly energetic group keeps the audience engaged from start to finish-and clamoring for more!

The Centennial Summerfest in Albuquerque, the largest event in New Mexico celebrating 100 years of statehood, will feature popular genres of music on five different stages along Central Avenue, a Science & Technology Center, a juried art exhibition, food vendors, a Kid’s Fun Zone, and much more.  The event begins at Noon and ramps up at 6 p.m. when the Main Stage becomes the focal point for the evening with a performance by the multiple Grammy®-winning band, “Los Lobos.”

]]>
http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/04/world-stage-at-centennial-summerfest-offers-diversity-of-musical-cultures/feed/ 0
Centennial Summerfest Stages Feature Variety of Entertainment http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/03/centennial-summerfest-stages-feature-variety-of-entertainment/ http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/03/centennial-summerfest-stages-feature-variety-of-entertainment/#comments Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:39:57 +0000 Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/?p=129 Rockabilly Stage Will Bring Back Fond Memories

ALBUQUERQUE NM—The giant Centennial Summerfest scheduled for Saturday, June 16th on Central Avenue between 2nd and 10th Streets will feature a total of five stages with a wide variety of entertainment.

The Rockabilly Stage at 6th and Central will draw a crowd eager to hear from some of our area’s most popular rock ‘n roll bands. The Fireballs, the first rock ‘n roll recording band in New Mexico, gained national attention with their #1 Billboard song “Sugar Shack” that stayed at the top of the charts for five weeks in a row. In 1963, they had the largest-selling single recording of all recordings released in the U.S. in a one-year period.

Another Albuquerque favorite, Soul Kitchen, will bring a bluesy sound to the stage with vocalist extraordinaire, Hillary Smith and guitar hero, Chris Dracup, bassist Marcus Casman, and drummer Mark Clark. Smith, winner of Albuquerque the Magazine’s “Best Vocalist” three years in a row, and Dracup, named “Best Musician” by the magazine as well as “Best Solo Act” by Local IQ, bring their blues-drenched sound to thrill audiences everywhere.

The Hubcaps blast from the past celebrates rock ‘n roll oldies from a time when pompadours, Converse’s, leather jackets and poodle skirts topped the fashion world. The incredibly tight harmonies of doo-wop will evoke nostalgia in those who lived it, and enchant our younger generation.

You could not have a rock ‘n roll revival without a group called The Daddy Os!  A touch of Elvis, a little Jerry Lee Lewis, and lots of great fun will bring the crowds to the Rockabilly Stage. The trio of Rob Martinez, of traditional mariachi and ode to the Beatles “Mariachi Mystery Tour” fame, Tom Gutierrez, a veteran guitarist and vocalist who has played throughout the state, and drummer Gary Gabaldon who moonlights in a country band, bring great energy and passion to their performances.

While it is an unusual name for a rockabilly band, Cowboys and Indian (singular) is a high-energy rockabilly/hillbilly band that takes its inspiration from artists such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Burnett, Buck Owens and many other stars from the past. With revved up performances, they bring rock ‘n roll back to its roots: simple, loud and raw. Adjacent to the Rockabilly Stage will be a Classic Car Show on the “Mother Road,” Albuquerque’s Route 66, featuring over 50 vintage cars representing clubs around the state.

The Centennial Summerfest in Albuquerque, the largest event in New Mexico celebrating 100 years of statehood, will feature popular genres of music on five different stages along Central Avenue, a Science & Technology Center, a juried art exhibition, food vendors, a Kid’s Fun Zone, and much more.  The event begins at Noon and ramps up at 6 p.m. when the Main Stage becomes the focal point for the evening with a performance by the multiple Grammy®-winning band, “Los Lobos.”

]]>
http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/03/centennial-summerfest-stages-feature-variety-of-entertainment/feed/ 0
Travel Back in Time at Centennial Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/02/travel-back-in-time-at-centennial-summerfest/ http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/02/travel-back-in-time-at-centennial-summerfest/#comments Tue, 28 Feb 2012 19:11:59 +0000 Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/?p=95 June 16th Event Features Authentic Territorial Village

ALBUQUERQUE NM—As New Mexico celebrates its 100th year of Statehood, the City of Albuquerque is preparing for what may well be the largest public event ever held in the city. On Saturday, June 16th, Central Avenue will be closed from 2nd to 10th Street to accommodate the tens of thousands of attendees at Centennial Summerfest, the largest Centennial celebration in New Mexico.

Over the coming months the City’s Cultural Services Department will be providing information on all of the exciting entertainment, features and activities that will be a part of this huge free public event.

One of the highlights that will take visitors back in time is the Territorial Village at Robinson Park between 8th and 10th Streets. The Territorial Village will feature live entertainment by the son of western film and music icons Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, Roy “Dusty” Rogers, Jr. Additional performers include: Syd Masters, an award-winning singer and songwriter of traditional western music; Will Banister, a rising country music star; and Santa Fe musical legends Bill and Bonnie Hearne, performers of country and folk music who are well-known and well-
respected nationwide. The New Mexico Territorial Brass Band will open with a performance of traditional songs from the era.

The New Mexico Gunfighters Association will bring some excitement to the Village in the form of “shoot-’em-ups” that pit good guys versus bad guys to help protect the Territorial Village residents and visitors. The High Desert Dancers will be demonstrating some of the dances popular in the Southwest, along with a little history of each dance. A “Storytelling Tent” will feature a collection of presentations that honor New Mexico’s past with Chautauqua performances that bring history to life, all courtesy of the New Mexico Humanities Council and other historians.

Visitors to the Territorial Village will experience life in the 19th and early 20th century through displays and live demonstrations. The Village will feature a blacksmith hammering iron, weavers, a flint napper (working with stones to create arrowheads and other items), mountain men, a gunsmith, Civil War displays and the famous Buffalo Soldiers, plus a demonstration of straw appliqué. A “posse” will gather to go after the bad guys, and “Urban Family” will stroll through the area performing popular songs from the Old West. Many of the historic demonstrations are courtesy of El Rancho de las Golondrinas (The Ranch of the Swallows), a living history museum located just south of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

What are sure to be very popular attractions are an authentic Chuck Wagon serving up delicious fare for purchase and a Growers’ Market offering locally-grown produce.

The Territorial Village Schedule:

Noon – 12:40 p.m. Territorial Brass Band
12:40 – 1 p.m. High Desert Dancers
1 – 2:30 p.m. Roy Rogers, Jr.
2:40 – 3:40 p.m. Bill and Bonnie Hearne
3:40 – 4:30 p.m. Will Banister
5 – 6 p.m. Syd Masters

The Centennial Summerfest in Albuquerque, the largest event in New Mexico celebrating 100 years of statehood, will feature popular genres of music on five different stages along Central Avenue, a Science & Technology Center, a juried art exhibition, food vendors, a Kid’s Fun Zone, and much more.  The event begins at Noon and closes at 6 p.m. when the Main Stage becomes the focal point for the evening with a performance by the multiple Grammy®-winning band, “Los Lobos.”

Centennial Summerfest is produced by the Cultural Services Department, City of Albuquerque, Richard J. Berry, Mayor. For additional details on all special events, please visit www.ABQsummerfest.com or call 311. TTY users call 711.

]]>
http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/02/travel-back-in-time-at-centennial-summerfest/feed/ 0
Largest Centennial Celebration to Feature Free Concert by Los Lobos http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/01/summerfest-press-release/ http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/01/summerfest-press-release/#comments Fri, 06 Jan 2012 04:41:38 +0000 Summerfest http://abqsummerfest.com/?p=8 ALBUQUERQUE NM—Mark your calendars for one of the most exciting events in Albuquerque this year. The City of Albuquerque will host the “granddaddy of all Summerfests,” the giant New Mexico Centennial celebration on Saturday, June 16, 2012.

The all-day, free block party on Central Avenue from Second to Tenth Streets will feature dozens of performers at five pavilions, free fun for kids, a special Territorial Village in Robinson Park, an arts market, car show, and much more.

The Native American Pavilion will be next to the historic KiMo Theatre and will feature traditional and contemporary Native American music, dance, crafts and food.

The Hispanic Heritage Pavilion will feature flamenco and folklorico dancers, mariachis and New Mexico music from performers such as Al Hurricane and Al Hurricane, Jr. and Gonzalo.

The World Stage Pavilion will highlight music from around the world with bands such as Le Chat Lunatique, Son Como Son and Wagogo.

Be sure not to miss the Route 66 Rock and Rockabilly Pavilion. The Fireballs, Cowboys and Indian, Daddy O’s, Soul Kitchen and more will perform amidst a car show that pays homage to the history of the “Mother Road.”

Step back in time at the Territorial Village and sample authentic Chuck Wagon grub while you witness gunfights and watch blacksmiths, quilters and more display their craft.

The highlight of the event will be the Main Stage 9 p.m. appearance of the popular Grammy Award–winning group, Los Lobos. This crowd-pleasing band will rock the night in celebration of 100 years of New Mexico Statehood and will be followed by a centennial fireworks celebration.

The event will also feature an arts market with artisans from around New Mexico, a food court, free children’s activities, a special historic musical in the KiMo Theatre and a fireworks display after the Los Lobos concert.

The event is free, and more details on programs, parking, public transportation and exhibits will be released in the coming months. For additional details on all special events, please visit www.ABQsummerfest.com or call 331. TTY users call 711.

]]>
http://abqsummerfest.com/2012/01/summerfest-press-release/feed/ 0