Gallup Multicultural Festival
The Gallup Multicultural Festival
| Dr. Roy Howard 505 879 0110 rhoward@wnmu.org |
Lynn Huenemann 505 786 7460 huenemann@frontiernet.net |
Jeannine Russell, Events Coordinator jmrussell2001@yahoo.com |
Description of the Festival:
The Gallup Heritage Festival is an year long celebration culminating each year in a Heritage Day presenting traditional songs, dances, foods, and arts of the many ethnic and identity groups and heritages represented in the city and greater community of Gallup. In preparation for the event, schools, churches, and other organized groups conduct research, build displays, prepare presentations, write articles, etc.
In addition to the website, lesson plans, and regular events, and Hall of Fame, there is a Heritage Day community celebration.
Purpose:
The purpose of the Gallup Heritage Festival is to showcase and celebrate cultural expressions of the groups and heritages of Gallup in order that the citizens and members of the Gallup community can enjoy and appreciate the richness and variety of their community and area.
An additional benefit is to attract tourism to the community.
Another benefit is to provide teachers with a community event that orients the students to local history, language, music, arts, and other aspects of the curriculum available anytime on the website with lesson plans, cultural information and the Gallup Hall of Fame.
Planning and Coordination:
The Gallup Heritage Festival is organized and coordinated by and through a Steering Committee consisting of representatives of the heritage groups participating in the Festival. Venues are located throughout the community, to encourage individuals to explore Gallup completely.
Organization:
Planning, publicity, and conducting of this event includes (1) a coordinator, steering committee, and events coordinator; (2) facilities with space, accommodations, and equipment for public performances, and food and arts booths; (3) local and regional publicity; and a Board of Directors responsible for oversight and fundraising.