As summer comes to an end and autumn returns, the New Mexico Japanese-American Citizens League kicks off its annual Japanese Fall Festival: Aki Matsuri. For over 20 years, Aki Matsuri has brought a taste of Japanese culture to New Mexico. The festival took place at Expo New Mexico — home of the State Fair. From taiko drums and shamisen to karate and bon odori dancing, the stages of the Villa Hispana and Indian Village were filled with lively performances to entertain the crowd of guests. The outskirts of the stages were filled with various vendors, some of who sold different crafts and goods that they prepared themselves, while others reeled in customers with the scent of freshly made Japanese food. Although there were various backgrounds and cultures that showed face through the festival grounds, the atmosphere conveyed a strong sense of community and union.
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PHOTO STORY: Welcome Back Days shines spotlight on student organizations, allows students to jumpstart their path
February 3The University of New Mexico held its second part of Welcome Back Days in the Student Union Building on Wednesday, Jan. 28. This day was centered around student organizations on campus, thus allowing students to get more information on how to become more involved and best suit their interests as they start a new semester. For those who love being active in sports, there were organizations represented such as UNM club tennis and Fusion ultimate frisbee. Those who love games could join clubs such as tabletop tavern or UNM’s chess club. Alex Joe is a freelance videographer for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at photo@dailylobo.com or on X @DailyLobo
