Here are some Cinco de Mayo events to celebrate Mexican culture, art and music. I've also included some suggested alternate events and workshops, which feature Mexican roots and the influence of Mexico upon our city. Updated for 2012.
Mariachi Alma de Albuquerque
Kick off the Cinco de Mayo weekend with a performance at the Alvarado Transportation Center. Hear Mariachi Alma de Albuquerque perform as everyone strolls the fountain area. Celebrate the music that is the heart and soul of New Mexico.
When: May 4, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Where: Alvarado Transportation Center, 100 First SW
Cinco de Mayo Matanza
When: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m., Saturday, May 5
Where: El Pinto, 10500 Fourth NW
El Pinto will have a matanza with horno cooked pork on the patio. There will be free live entertainment. Advance purchase your tickets.
Cinco de Mayo Celebration with Noche de Oro
When: May 5, 8 p.m.
Where: National Hispanic Cultural Center Journal Theatre
The centennial production celebrates the music and dance of the Southwest. The show begins with Native American roots and moves on through Spanish and Mexican influences and into the mix of the 21st century. Featuring Ballet en Fuego, Antonio Reyna, Los Primos and more.
Cinco de Mayo Folk Art and Music Festival
When: May 5, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Where: La Parada Mercantile, 8917 Fourth Street NW
Join over 30 New Mexican artists, crafters and folk artists for the annual Cinco de Mayo celebration. Musicians include Las Flores Del Valle, Luz de Luna, Alpha Blue, and more. There will be a Best Fiesta hat contest at 3 p.m.
Charo
When: May 5, 7 p.m.
Where: San Felipe Casino Hollywood, I-25 exit 252
Charo is a comedienne, stage and screen performer and Latin singer.
Yolanda Del Rio and Graciela Beltran
When: May 5, 8 p.m.
Where: Legends Theater, Route 66 Casino, 14500 Central SW
Yolanda del Rio is a well known ranchera singer, and she'll be joined by Graciela Beltran, known for her norteno, banda and mariachi music.
Our Favorite Mexican Breakfasts
When: May 1, 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Where: Domenici Education Building, National Hispanic Cultural Center
Learn to make chilaquiles, huevos a la mexicana and champurrado, a chocolate atole. The class is taught by Fernando Pizarro of Elia's Kitchen.
Exhibit: Barelas A Traves de Los Anos
When: Through June 30, 2012. Tuesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The National Hispanic Cultural Center has a centennial history of the historic Barelas neighborhood, which predates Albuquerque. The exhibit looks at the period from 1912 to 2012, with images and stories of local life. This is a must see for those who love Albuquerque, or want to learn more about its history and roots.
Santo vs....the Enemy
When: April 26 - May 21
The South Broadway Cultural Center will present a series of films from the 60s and 70s that feature El Santo investigating crime. See El Santo wrestle with the bad guys in these classic films.
Year Round
When: Tuesday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Where: National Hispanic Cultural Center
What: Since opening its doors in 2000, the National Hispanic Cultural Center has provided visitors with a glimpse at the arts and cultures of Hispanics worldwide. The Center is located along the Rio Grande in one of Albuquerque's oldest neighborhoods, and offers visitors galleries, a library, a genealogy center, and lots of community events.
