ABQ Times

¡Globalquerque! is returning to Albuquerque's Civic Plaza from September 26-28, offering three days of diverse music, dance, and cultural activities. The event is organized in partnership with the City’s Department of Arts & Culture.

Tom Frouge, the festival founder and director, expressed gratitude for the city's support: “We are excited and honored to be partnering with the City of Albuquerque. Their belief in the festival and its power to unite people through cross-cultural understanding has been confirming to our mission and we are grateful for their support, particularly the team at Arts & Culture! While ¡Globalquerque! isn’t the biggest festival in the country we pride ourselves as being one of the most unique whether through our educational programming and cultural outreach at home or the opportunities we provide to the amazing and important cultural artists from around the world, including those in New Mexico."

Mayor Tim Keller highlighted the significance of bringing ¡Globalquerque! downtown: “Bringing Globalquerque downtown to Civic Plaza creates a great opportunity to experience these diverse performances right in the heart of our city. Families and folks of all ages get a chance come together once again to celebrate music, culture, and community.”

The festival begins on Thursday, September 26 with an all-ages Global Headphone Dance Party & Concert at Albuquerque Museum’s amphitheater from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., featuring DJ Low Key (U.S.), DJ Malik (Pakistan), DJ Mo (U.S.), and a live performance by Taiwanese string virtuosa NINI (Taiwan/U.S.). Beer and wine will be available for purchase along with Pakistani/New Mexican cuisine from 505 Masala Munchies.

On Friday and Saturday, September 27-28 from 4 p.m. to midnight each day, Civic Plaza will host global performers such as Balkan Paradise Orchestra (Spain/The Balkans), Bia Ferreira (Brazil), Cha Wa (New Orleans), Fränder (Sweden), Caña Dulce y Caña Brava (México), The Forest with Special Guests (U.S./Guinea), Nation Beat (U.S./South Africa), and Sidy Samb & Afroflamenco (Senegal/Spain).

The event is family-friendly but only those aged 21+ with valid ID can purchase alcohol. Various food vendors will be present at Civic Plaza. More information can be found on www.globalquerque.org.

For nearly two decades, ¡Globalquerque! has provided a platform for global exploration through dance, film, crafts, food, educational workshops, activities, and live musical performances. The festival aims to bring people together by reflecting on shared experiences while celebrating cultural differences.