ABQ Times

The Department of Senior Affairs celebrated the return of the Barelas Senior Center Fiestas today, marking its first occurrence since 2019. The event, a long-standing tradition in the Barelas community, had been paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year's Fiestas were designed as a day of celebration for Albuquerque seniors and their families, featuring live entertainment, dancing, food, and family activities.

“Barelas Senior Center is a special place where seniors and families go to connect, learn, and play while building a stronger community,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “The return of fiestas is a great opportunity to reflect and appreciate how these ‘third places’ in our city create an important sense of belonging and bring us together.”

Hundreds of attendees from all nine of Albuquerque’s senior and multigenerational centers gathered in the Barelas neighborhood for the event. The Fiestas also coincided with National Senior Center Month in September.

“Events like this really show how special our community is, and it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces and new ones taking part in the festivities,” said Anna Sanchez, Director of Senior Affairs. “We were thrilled to be able to bring this experience back to the Barelas community.”

Musical performances included Baila! Baila! Dance Academy, Mariachi Xochitl, Marisol Flores, and headliner Al Hurricane Jr.

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