Looking for the perfect weekend? Check out the 124th Annual Fiestas de Las Vegas in Las Vegas, NM, a small town in Northern New Mexico. This hospitable historic town off I-25 nestles up to the scenic Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The Las Vegas Fiestas represents hometown life at its best. The theme for this year’s celebration is Unidos celebramos el Centenario de Nuevo México y 124 años de Fiestas (United we celebrate New Mexico’s Centennial and 124 Years of Fiestas).
Featuring live music, folk dancing, and the annual Fiesta Run the three-day event kicks off on Friday, July 6 at Old Town Plaza Park. With the exception of the Fiesta Run, all of the events are free. Music ranges from classical Mariachi to old time Spanish and Mexican styles played by legendary performers. The bandstand floor is extended so everyone can join in the fun and dance to the lively music.
The food is scrumptious, the music has a wow-factor of 100-plus, the entertainment is non-stop for three days, and the congenial atmosphere makes it family friendly.
The Fiestas website is loaded with information about entertainment schedules and other events. For more information check out the Fiestas website.
History and Mystery, Places With A Past
Preserving the past embraces the best of yesterday and helps to form our understanding of today. The Las Vegas Citizens’ Committee for Historic Preservation has spearheaded community action to renovate and restore rather than tear down and rebuild. Through its efforts Las Vegas, NM, has come to respect and celebrate the past while making the present more enjoyable through restoration and preservation of properties.
The annual Places With a Past Tour highlights about eight properties, complete with docents to talk about former owners, the history of the property and how restoration or preservation saved it from destruction or demolition by neglect. Representative of Victorian or adobe styles, each structure has a fascinating past and a present full of promise. Montezuma Castle, which now houses the United World College USA, is a highlight of the tour.
The self-guided tour kicks off Heritage Week on Saturday, Aug. 4. It begins at the CCHP office, 116 Bridge Street, where participants may pick up a map and other helpful information. Tickets are $20 per person. For more information contact the CCHP office at 505 425-8803.
For information about accommodations and restaurants in Las Vegas, NM, go to www.lasvegasnewmexico.com.