The Tibetan Association of Santa Fe has been in existence for 12 years, during which it has provided Santa Fe’s small Tibetan population with support and outreach. To celebrate and preserve Tibet’s culture, the association throws a festival that showcases Tibetan traditions, beliefs and ceremonies to the public. TASF President Phuntsok Rapden considers the festival an educational experience and a way for the Tibetan community to uphold its traditional practices, some of which are quickly diminishing due to an occupied Tibet. “Systematic destruction by China forces us to take responsibility for the preservation of our endangered culture,” Rapden says. “It’s also a chance for people who don’t know a lot about Tibet to learn more.” The day will be full of Tibetan music making, painting thangkas, carving mantras on rocks and prayer flag printing, as well as presentations on Tibetan customs and a documentary about the contemporary, oppressed Tibet. Learn what you can while you can.

Where: Tibetan Cultural Center
Phone: 505-216-6620
Address: 915 Hickox Street
Website: www.taosf.org