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Department of Cultural Affairs

About the Department

For centuries, New Mexico has been a mecca where many and varied cultures have lived side by side, sharing and celebrating their cultural differences. The result — a lush, refreshing texture of styles and designs on the joyful business of living. The Department of Cultural Affairs represents New Mexico's dedication to preserving and celebrating the cultural integrity and diversity of the state.

Latest News

New Mexico Historic Sites selected for prestigious Award of Excellence for impact of Taylor-Mesilla on state and local history
6/12/2026
New Mexico Historic Sites | Jun 12, 2026New Mexico Historic Sites received a 2026 Award of Excellence from the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) for opening the Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site. The site opened November 8, 2025, as the eighth state-managed historic site in New Mexico, located on historic Old Mesilla Plaza.
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From the fire tower: 2026 New Mexico Great Reads titles announced
5/26/2026
New Mexico State Library | May 26, 2026The New Mexico Center for the Book has selected two books centered on fire watchkeeping for the 2026 National Book Festival representation. The youth selection is The Burning Season by Caroline Starr Rose and the adult selection is The Mountain Knows the Mountain: A Fire Watch Diary by Philip Connors.
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Applications open for musical opportunities with New Mexico Music Commission grant funding
5/12/2026
New Mexico Arts | May 12, 2026The New Mexico Music Commission's "Music in the Community" Grant Program is accepting applications for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The initiative provides $2,500 in reimbursement-based funding to support musical performances, education, and activities benefiting communities throughout New Mexico. Application deadline is June 13, 2026.
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Most Popular Services

State Museums and Historic Sites
Recreation • Department of Cultural Affairs
Visit the museums and historic sites all around New Mexico.
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Office of Archaeological Studies
Education,Recreation • Department of Cultural Affairs
The Office of Archaeological Studies conducts archaeological research projects throughout New Mexico with a diverse group of 40 - 50 archaeologists and support staff. Its mission is to identify, interpret, and share information about prehistoric and historic sites across the state.
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Historic Preservation Division
Education,Recreation • Department of Cultural Affairs
Preserving New Mexico's historic treasures has enormous impacts on the social and economic well-being of New Mexicans. It is the foundation of the state's vigorous heritage tourism industry and builds healthier local communities.
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New Mexico Arts
Education,Recreation • Department of Cultural Affairs
Its primary function is to provide financial support and technical assistance or arts services and programs to non-profit organizations statewide and to administer the 1% public art program for the state of New Mexico. Other programs include the Governor's Awards for Excellence in the Arts, New Mexico Arts and Cultural Districts, New Mexico Arts Trails, and Poetry Out Loud.
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New Mexico State Library
Education,Recreation • Department of Cultural Affairs
Since its beginnings more than 60 years ago, the State Library has been a leader in the development of New Mexico's public and tribal libraries, helping them to build the programs needed by their communities.
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