69th Annual Otero Arts Festival Underway

La Junta, CO – The highly anticipated 69th Annual Otero Arts Festival is officially underway. This week on Otero College’s campus the incredible talents of local students is showcased across multiple artistic disciplines.

The festival began with the completion of the Creative Writing Competition, where talented young writers’ literary works are on display in the Rizzuto Banquet Room. Winners were awarded ribbons, and all entries are available for public viewing.

Last Thursday marked the start of the Visual Arts Competition. Judges spent Friday carefully admiring the outstanding works of art and senior portfolios before awarding ribbons to the most exceptional pieces and recognizing the top seniors.

The festival continues Monday, March 31, 2025, with the Music and Theatre Competitions in the Ed Stafford Theatre. Musicians will take the stage starting at 9:00 a.m., competing in four categories: Vocal Solo, Vocal Ensemble, Instrumental Solo, and Instrumental Ensemble. In the evening, the Theatre Competition begins at 6:00 p.m., featuring performances in the Monologue and Short Scenes categories.

The Visual Arts and Creative Writing Exhibit will be open to the public from Tuesday, April 1, 2025, through Thursday, April 3, 2025 in the Rizzuto Banquet Room in Otero College’s Student Center. Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibit and participate in the voting for the People’s Choice Awards in both the Junior and Senior Divisions.

The festival will conclude with the Awards Ceremony on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., where top winners in each category will be recognized for their outstanding contributions.

Festival Coordinator Malorie McNames expressed her excitement for this year’s event, stating, “We have had a wonderful number of entries this year. Every year I am blown away by our local students and how talented they are. I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy this year’s Arts Festival.”

The Otero Arts Festival continues to be a cherished tradition, celebrating creativity and artistic excellence among local youth. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness and support the incredible talent in our community!

For more information, contact: Malorie McNames, malorie.mcnames@otero.edu, 719-384-6891