Culture Shock: A Roundup Of Holiday Art Fairs

Fair Alternatives

Erin Adair-Hodges
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2 min read
One-of-a-kind gifts at the Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Festival
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The day after Thanksgiving has become known as Black Friday, not for any increased diagnosis of bubonic plague infections, but rather for the result it has on retailers’ bottom lines. I’m not going to be a hypocrite–I like to shop. And even more than I like to shop, I love a sale. I haven’t paid full price for anything since the heart-shaped sunglasses I saved up for in 1986. But there’s no way in hell I’m going to any mall or fluorescently lit barn of savings on that day. My inherent misanthropy and hatred of parking lots forbids it. If, on reading this, you feel the need to yell, "Testify!" then join me in exploring some artsy alternatives to the shopping soul crush this weekend.

If you’re not quite sure whether you’re going to end up on the Naughty or Nice list, let the
Corrales Holiday Art Fest do what it can to nice you up. With more than 40 artisans presenting their wares, you’re sure to find something to garner good will. Visit the heated tent at the Corrales Rec Center (500 Jones Road) Friday, Nov. 27, and Saturday, Nov. 28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No cost to enter or park. For information and directions, go to corralesartists.org.

On this side of the river, the
Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Festival’s holiday show will be held Friday, Nov. 27, and Saturday, Nov. 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 29, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Manuel Lujan Exhibit Complex at Expo New Mexico (300 San Pedro NE) will be the headquarters for an array of artsy-crafty finds, from woodworking and jewelry to pottery and, I’m hoping, those little people with apple-core faces. See all that and more for $6, or get an all-weekend pass for $8. Kids are free, while parking at the fairgrounds costs $4. See riograndefestivals.com for more.

On Saturday, Nov. 28, the National Hispanic Cultural Center (1701 Fourth Street SW) hosts the
Regalos Holiday Shopping Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Local artists, vendors, live music, free hot cocoa, prizes and a fashion show should be more than enough to tempt you out of the house. Admission and parking are free. Go to nhccnm.org.
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