Press Releases

Santa Fe, NM – After five years of rehabilitation work at the New Mexico History Museum (NMHM) Palace of the Governors, the Museum presents “History Homecoming: Past, Present, Palace” on Sunday, April 21, 2024, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. This free community event celebrates the hard work in making this beloved landmark brighter than ever, and will included interactive experiences, cultural art performances, demonstrations and new exhibits inside the Palace.

The celebration offers a renewed appreciation for this National Historic Landmark by sharing with visitors the functional, efficient and majestic preservation of the Palace of the Governors. The Museum tells new stories that connect the past to the present, sharing multiple perspectives and diverse viewpoints and providing memorable experiences to people of all ages and interests.

“The Palace of the Governors is a nationally significant landmark with complex associations as a structure, site, symbol and setting for more than 16 generations of human activity,” said Debra Garcia y Griego, Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. “This community event celebrates the incredible work of all those involved in rehabilitation of the Palace and marks the beginning of a bold new approach to exhibitions and programs at the New Mexico History Museum that will better reflect the diversity, interests and breadth of all New Mexico.”

During the History Homecoming festivities, visitors can take guided tours of the Palace with the Friends of History and NMHM docents, explore new exhibits such as, “Palace Through Time,” “Reflections on History” and “The Art of Peter Aschwanden,” and check out the Palace Press. A diverse selection of cultural showcases featuring statewide and regional musical and dance performers will be featured throughout the day.

Interactive activities for all ages include a “History Investigation” challenge, a maker space, “Ask a 3rd Grader” trivia game, and a kids’ cooking demonstration. Additionally, the Native American Artisans Portal Program will showcase the work of talented vendors who will offer live demonstrations of their artistry. More information and a schedule of events will be available at on the website.

In conjunction with NMHM’s free community day, the Museum of New Mexico Foundation is hosting a grand celebration fundraising event, “New Beginnings: History Homecoming 2024” on Saturday, April 20, 6 – 9 p.m. inside the Palace of the Governors. For more information and ticketing information visit https://www.museumfoundation.org/history-homecoming/. Proceeds benefit NMHM exhibits and programs.

About the New Mexico History Museum

The New Mexico History Museum is a statewide educational resource, nationally significant local landmark, and destination for anyone who wants to understand the diverse experiences of the people of New Mexico, the dynamics that have shaped our state, and the relationships that connect our region with the rest of the world. Located on the north side of the historic Santa Fe Plaza, the New Mexico History Museum campus includes the Palace of the Governors, the Pete V. Domenici Building, the Fray Angélico Chávez History Library, and the Palace of the Governors Photo Archives. Learn more at nmhistorymuseum.org.