"Aki Matsuri" Held in Albuquerque, New Mexico (Sunday, September 29, 2024)　

On Sunday, September 29, the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) New Mexico Chapter held an “Aki Matsuri” at the Expo New Mexico in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The “Aki Matsuri,” or fall festival, has been an annual event for over 40 years. With each year featuring a different theme, this year’s theme was “Kokoro”— the Heart. The Aki Matsuri featured many booths including Japanese food, as well as featuring Japanese stage performances. Panel displays on the history of Japanese-Americans in New Mexico, bonsai, tea ceremony, and other topics were also featured. Many people visited the festival and enjoyed the event.

The opening ceremony featured remarks by Sonya Lara, Director of Albuquerque’s Office of Equity and Inclusion, Raul Bujanda, FBI Special Agent in Charge for Albuquerque, and Davis Begay, former Honorary Consul of Japan in Albuquerque. The Consulate-General was also invited with Consul Keiko Furutani attending and giving short remarks.