Animus City Night Bazaar
The Animas City Night Bazaar (ACNB) activates underutilized spaces to support the local artisan economy and build community through art, performances, live music, games, and contests.
The 2024 ACNB took place on the last Wednesday of each month, starting in July and ending in September. Starting around 5:00 pm and ending by 9:00 pm, the free event included a multitude of experiences, performances, and interactive art projects focused on the theme for each event. In its 7th year, ACNB has become a staple summer event. What started as a mid-week farmers market has developed into a mini art festival, with approximately 200+ attendees per event each month.
ACNB received LATC funding to cover the compensation for the Event Manager, performing artists, and operational costs. The Event Manager oversees all event logistics (chairing committees, securing permits, vendors, entertainment, volunteer coordination) and day of event management while supporting the BOD with operational tasks pre-season and post-season (sponsorships and grant deadlines). Operational costs include insurance, permits, and materials for events.
Back in 2018, Durango locals gathered at 81301 Coffee and dreamt of a farmers’ market on the north side of Durango. The motley crew of neighbors borrowed a parking lot and, after a crazy season navigating wildfire, monsoon and drought, the team realized what they'd created was so much more than a place to buy greens; it was a glorious hodgepodge of art, music, food, goats, cornhole, Legos, cocktails and lightly used furniture. It was a bazaar.
The Animas City Night Bazaar continues to evolve their wildly entertaining, monthly event into a classic summertime soiree. Every season, the ACNB converts a lonely neighborhood parking lot or alley into a lively, lit, creative space that welcomes dozens of vendors, artisans, and non-profit partners. Beyond offering a gathering place, the Bazaar has also helped unexpected collaborations thrive and casual crafters grow into small businesses.
