As the vibrant colors of spring blossom across the northern landscape, New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) prepares for a much-anticipated celebration—the 27th Annual “La Fiesta de la Hispanidad.” This cherished event celebrates Hispanic heritage and traditions, bringing together families, music, and performers from all walks of life.
Join us on Sunday, April 13th and experience the beauty and vibrancy of Northern New Mexican culture! The festival starts at 2:00 PM, with doors opening at 1:30 PM for ticket sales. Advanced tickets can be purchased for $5.00 at Douglas Hall, rooms 234 and 237, and faculty, staff, and students with valid ID can enter for free.
Deeply rooted in the heritage of the Hispanic Latino community, “La Fiesta” was inaugurated 27 years ago through the visionary efforts of Dr. Sara Harris, a professor emeritus at NMHU.
Dr. Norma Valenzuela, event coordinator and Chair of the Languages and Culture Department at NMHU, explained that Dr Harris founded this community event to highlight the incredible talents of individuals from Las Vegas and the surrounding areas.
Emphasizing the event’s inclusive nature, Valenzuela said “the festival is a testament to community spirit. All the performers volunteer their time, and we always have a packed audience at Ilfeld Auditorium.”
Attendees will enjoy an array of music, performances, and poetry readings, all presented in Spanish or bilingually, creating a rich cultural tapestry.
This year’s festival will honor the legacy of Don Juan Ortega, a renowned musician and composer, alongside his daughter Brenda Ortega, who has also made her mark in the music world.
In addition, local elementary schools from the Las Vegas community will take center stage. The excitement will be palpable as they sing and dance, filling the air with joy and enthusiasm.
Special guests will include returning performers like Daniel Lee Gallegos alongside new talents joining the lineup. Valenzuela expressed her excitement about the mix of familiar faces and newcomers that highlight the festivals collaborative sprit.
The diversity of performers not only showcases individual talent but also reflects the festival’s deeper purpose: to unite the Las Vegas community and surrounding areas through the celebration of culture.
La Fiesta serves as a vibrant reminder of the traditions that bind the community together. As Valenzuela aptly put it, “It’s a wonderful event to enjoy and to honor the rich traditions of our heritage. This is the perfect opportunity to come together, celebrate, and appreciate the talent that spans generations.”
Her words highlight not only the joy of the occasion but also the significance of honoring cultural roots. Each year, this gathering brings together families and friends, showcasing the incredible talent that has been passed down through the ages. From musicians and dancers to performers and storytellers, the event becomes a cultural expression that enrichs the spirit of northern New Mexico.
It’s a time when laughter fills the air and stories are shared, reinforcing the bonds of community and ensuring that traditions remain alive and vibrant. This is a way not only to celebrate the past, but also inspire future generations to carry legacies forward, weaving shared history into the fabric of tomorrow.
