National New Mexico Day

A happy family enjoying a traditional New Mexican meal, dressed in colorful southwest-style clothing, surrounded by desert landscape and adobe architecture.. — National new mexico day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National New Mexico Day! Get ready to discover the charms of the Land of Enchantment with this whimsical celebration. From flavorful cuisine to vibrant culture, there's plenty to explore on this special day in the state of New Mexico.

When is New Mexico Day?

It's national new mexico day on the 15th June.

The Origin of National New Mexico Day

So, how did National New Mexico Day come to be? Well, it's not as ancient as the pueblos, but it certainly has its place in the digital age. This national day was born from the creative minds of internet enthusiasts who wanted to shine a spotlight on the unique beauty of New Mexico and its rich history.

Discovering the Charms of New Mexico

When it comes to New Mexico, there's no shortage of things to love. Let's dive into some of the highlights that make this state so special:

Cuisine: From mouthwatering green chile stew to delicious enchiladas smothered in red or green sauce, New Mexico's cuisine is a flavor explosion worth celebrating on National New Mexico Day.
Culture: Dance to the rhythms of traditional Native American drums, immerse yourself in the artistry of local artisans, and explore the fascinating history of New Mexico's diverse cultures.
Natural Beauty: From the otherworldly landscapes of White Sands National Park to the majestic beauty of the Rio Grande Gorge, New Mexico is a haven for nature lovers.

Join the Celebration

On National New Mexico Day, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the Land of Enchantment. Support local businesses, try traditional New Mexican dishes, and explore the history and natural wonders that make this state so enchanting. Whether you're a resident or just a New Mexico enthusiast, this day is all about appreciating and celebrating everything that makes this state extraordinary.

History behind the term 'New Mexico'

1540

Spanish Exploration

In 1540, Spanish explorer Francisco Vázquez de Coronado embarked on an expedition to the southwestern region of North America in search of legendary cities of gold. He encountered the indigenous Pueblo people and named the region 'Nuevo México' (New Mexico) after the Aztec Valley of Mexico.

1598

Colonial Period

In 1598, Juan de Oñate led a group of Spanish settlers to establish the first European colony in the region. The colony was named San Juan de los Caballeros, which later became San Juan Pueblo. The Spanish continued to refer to the region as Nuevo México.

1821

Mexican Independence

In 1821, Mexico gained independence from Spain, and the territory of Nuevo México became a part of the newly formed country. It remained under Mexican control for about two decades.

1848

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

Following the Mexican-American War, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed in 1848. As a result, Mexico ceded a significant portion of its territory, including Nuevo México, to the United States. This marked the beginning of New Mexico's association with the United States.

1912

Statehood

New Mexico officially became the 47th state of the United States on January 6, 1912. It was the first state to have a Hispanic majority population, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and influence of the region's indigenous and Spanish ancestors.

Did you know?

Did you know that New Mexico is home to the world's longest tramway? The Sandia Peak Tramway in Albuquerque stretches over 2.7 miles and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It's a must-visit attraction for any adventure seeker!