Explore Albuquerque’s creative side in the November edition of The Creative Compass. Discover Route 66 Remixed, local film festivals, handmade markets, new art exhibitions, community printmaking, and a night of words and music—all celebrating the city’s vibrant arts and culture.

Spotlight: Route 66 Remixed

Mother: Moment by artists Noé Barnett and Travis Bruce Black.

As we rev our engines to celebrate Route 66 turning 100 in 2026, the City of Albuquerque is thrilled to announce the launch of Route 66 Remixed. This project celebrates the legacy and influence of the historic road, which features multiple attractions along its 18-mile route, primarily around Central Avenue in Albuquerque. Cruise around at your own speed and check out 11 public art installations, such as the mural at 505 Central Food Hall by Lynnette Haozous or art by PAZ/Mipitzmitl at the Route 66 Visitor Center. The project also includes augmented reality (AR) experiences designed by Akilah Martinez, Deb Jojola, Dale Deforest, and Sonja Killer.

“We’re excited to bring everyone together for something that really reflects Albuquerque’s unique spirit and can be experienced every day of the centennial, not just during one event,” said Arts & Culture Director Dr. Shelle Sanchez.

For a full list of installations, an interactive map, and more, visit the Route 66 Remixed website, made in partnership with Visit Albuquerque.

5 Things To Do in November

¡Magnifico!

The thirteenth annual Spanish language film festival ¡Cine Magnifico! returns to the National Hispanic Cultural Center, hosted by the Instituto Cervantes. Spread across three days starting on Friday, November 7, the festival features full-length and short films from countries including Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Portugal, and Spain. Tickets are free, but you must register in advance. All films will be at the Bank of America Theater at the NHCC, located at 1701 4th St SW.

Image credit: Camryn Growing Thunder, Rollin’ Thunder, 2024. Courtesy Brian Smith and Suzanne M. Smith.

Armor up!

Also on November 8, catch the opening reception for The Armor We Wear, the new exhibition at 516 Arts curated by Olivia Amaya Ortiz. The show, which will be on display at the gallery through the end of January 2026, highlights the work of local and regional artists. “The through-line with all of them is that they do in some form or another address the body, how we dress and adorn ourselves, and how that can be a language in which we convey ideas about the cultures and communities we come from—and how doing so can be an act of protest,” says Ortiz. “They’re also meditating on what it means to be within a creative space in this contemporary moment where we see certain restrictions being applied to our freedom of expression and what ideas should or should not be within a museum or art space. We hope this show brings together artists and community members in a celebratory moment to reflect on what’s happening and look ahead to what could come next.” The Member’s Preview begins at 5:00 PM; the Public Preview is from 6:00 until 8:00 PM.

Let the Holiday Shopping Begin

Unique, handmade gifts galore will be available as stocking stuffers and more at the NM Arts & Crafts Festival happening on Saturday, November 8 from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM. More than 95 local vendors will be set up inside the UNM Continuing Education Conference Center at 1634 University Blvd. NE, just north of Indian School. Parking and entrance are free; register ahead for craft workshops to make your own tinfoil ornament, holiday cards, origami, and more.

Purposeful Prints

Celebrate 15 years of Kei & Molly Textiles with their community anniversary party on Friday, Nov. 21. The event runs from 2:00 until 7:00 PM and will be at the company’s store, 4400 Silver Ave. SE (on Washington, just north of Zuni). Tickets cost $15, and all proceeds from ticket sales support Kei & Molly annual scholarships, which help graduating seniors from nearby Highland High School with college expenses. Ticket sales begin Nov. 3 online, and attendees can reserve time during the party to print a Kei & Molly dish towel.

Mouth Off

Prose pros Marisa P. Clark, Joanna Fuhrman, and David Meischen team up with fellow writer and musician Tom Andes for a night of literary fun on Saturday, Nov. 22. Starting at 7:00 PM, Bad Mouth Burque will host Bad Mouth Words & Music: Pumpkin Spice Edition at q-Staff Theatre, located at 400 Broadway Blvd SE. Tickets are a suggested donation of $5 for students and $20 for adults. Proceeds will go to the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center. Reserve tickets in advance or donate via Venmo @bad-mouth.

Table of Contents

A vibrant evening scene at a hot air balloon festival, with colorful balloons glowing against a twilight sky above a lively crowd gathered around dining tables and illuminated tents. Text reads, "Creative Compass October 2026."

The Creative Compass | October 2026

Discover things to do in Albuquerque this October, from Balloon Fiesta and fall festivals to arts, live performances, Halloween events, film, markets, and more.

The Creative Compass | September 2026

Discover Albuquerque’s best arts and culture events this September, from the New Mexico State Fair and new theater productions to poetry, folk music, and more.

The Creative Compass | August 2026

Discover Albuquerque’s best arts and culture events this August, from classes at the Albuquerque Museum and the NM Glass Arts Festival to new theatre productions, Route 66 lectures, and the In Rhythm Fest.

The Creative Compass | July 2026

Discover Albuquerque’s best arts and culture events this July, from Route 66 Summerfest and live music to glass art, family festivals, and World Cup watch parties.

Artistry in Focus: Thomas Christopher Haag

Step inside the creative world of Albuquerque artist Thomas Christopher Haag as he reflects on meditation, travel, spirituality, and the unconventional path that led him to painting. In this conversation, Thomas shares how intuition, community, found materials, and the New Mexico landscape continue to shape his work, murals, and creative practice.

Neon-lit Route 66 sign glowing over a busy street at dusk with vibrant city lights in the background.

The Creative Compass | May 2026

Explore Albuquerque’s arts and culture scene this May 2026, featuring the reopening of the West Central Route 66 Visitor Center, Route 66 Remixed public art installations, live music, festivals, exhibitions, and creative events happening across the city.

Art Every Day Of The Week

When you start to look, you’ll see art everywhere in Albuquerque. Use this calendar to find an arts and culture event near you. Take a friend, bring your kids, or go on your own. Become a part of the arts and culture community in Albuquerque. You’ll be glad you did.