Durango's entertainment scene has seen active preparations and announcements for several major festivals this month. The 21st annual Durango Independent Film Festival (DIFF) runs from March 4 to 8, showcasing independent films from over 50 countries in downtown theaters. Highlights include the Native Lens program featuring Indigenous filmmakers and a feature documentary by local filmmaker Paul Bikis.[1]
Bach Festival Embraces Mozart
The 19th annual Durango Bach Festival presents its "Mostly Mozart 2026" edition from March 9 to 14 at St. Mark's Episcopal Church. Daily noon lunch concerts feature Mozart works such as Flute Quartet, Violin Sonata, Clarinet Quintet, and the Serenade in G Major, alongside Bach pieces performed by flutists, string players, chamber singers, and the Festival String Orchestra. Catered lunches follow each performance.[2]
Live music fills venues throughout the month, with performances at spots like The Diamond Belle Saloon, The Office Spiritorium, and Animas City Theatre. Acts range from solo guitarists and ragtime pianists to jam sessions and DJ sets, offering regular stages for local musicians.[3]
Celtic Festival Lineup Announced
The 12th Durango Celtic Festival takes place March 27-28 at the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. The lineup includes international acts Caroline & Tom from Ireland, Runa (Ireland/USA), and Cassie & Maggie from Nova Scotia, plus local groups like the Be Frank Student Ensemble, Bowmaneers, Kitchen Jam Band, Forest Thump, and Stramash. Full festival passes are available, providing opportunities for both established performers and student ensembles.[4][5]
Additional events include the BANFF Mountain Film Festival on March 6-7 and International Guitar Night on March 26 at the Community Concert Hall, alongside the Spring in the Rockies Arts and Crafts Festival on March 28-29. These gatherings sustain performance slots for musicians and technicians while drawing crowds to local venues. Looking ahead, the Celtic Festival and guitar event promise continued engagement for artists and audiences in the near term.