SANTA FE – Historic Downtown Farmington has been granted state authorization as an Arts & Cultural District following the successful completion of the Arts & Cultural District start up benchmarks, becoming the 11th NM community to earn state authorization.
New Mexico’s Arts & Cultural Districts make a positive impact by working with artists, entrepreneurs, arts organizations/institutions and cultural/historic assets to strengthen the creative economy. Together, they help communities grow creative industries, attract visitors and celebrate local identity.
“Arts and culture are powerful economic drivers for New Mexico, and this authorization recognizes Farmington’s leadership in building a creative economy that supports local businesses, attracts visitors and strengthens downtown,” said Cabinet Secretary Rob Black of the New Mexico Economic Development Department.
State-authorized Arts & Cultural Districts gain access to additional resources, such as assistance with cultural plan development and historic building tax credits, tools that help communities invest in revitalization and long-term growth.
“Farmington’s new Arts & Cultural District designation reflects the vital role the culture sector plays in driving economic development and strengthening a community’s sense of place,” said Cabinet Secretary Debra Garcia y Griego of New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. “We applaud Farmington for its commitment to honoring its heritage and investing in a vibrant downtown that supports both community vitality and local economic growth.”
Farmington joins a statewide network of authorized districts, including Downtown Albuquerque, Artesia, Carlsbad, Gallup, Las Cruces, Las Vegas, Los Alamos, Mora, Raton and Silver City. Additionally, Alamogordo, Belen, Corrales and Nob Hill are currently working through the Arts & Cultural District start up process.
“Since 2018, Farmington’s ACD team has shown commitment and dedication to growing their local creative and cultural economy in order to engage the community and promote their vibrant historic downtown,” said New Mexico MainStreet Director Daniel J. Gutierrez.
“This designation is an important milestone for Farmington and our downtown,” said Karen Lupton, Historic Downtown Farmington Coordinator. “As a state-authorized Arts & Cultural District, we can more intentionally align arts, culture, and heritage with economic development, placemaking, and tourism, helping our downtown continue to grow as a vibrant, welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.”
Farmington Mayor Nate Duckett shared, “This designation highlights the important role arts and culture play in Farmington’s economic vitality and community well-being. As a state-authorized Arts & Cultural District, Farmington is well-positioned to attract visitors, support local businesses, and continue building a vibrant, thriving downtown.”
“ACDs are prime examples of how arts and culture can serve as driving strategies for community development, strengthened local identity, and enhanced quality of life,” said New Mexico Arts Executive Director, Michelle Laflamme-Childs. “New Mexico Arts & the State Arts Commission congratulate Farmington on their new ACD designation, and we look forward to supporting them in continuing this important and exciting work.”
Farmington’s Arts & Cultural District is centrally located and highly walkable, encompassing a wide range of artistic and cultural enterprises, experiences and activities. The district is home to both public and private creative and cultural anchors, including a historic theater, the civic center, museums, locally owned dining establishments, art galleries and creative businesses.
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Below are photos from Farmington Arts & Cultural District’s initiatives and events.
