Bernie Torres was born and raised in Amalia, New Mexico. In 1963, after his family moved to Costilla, he started his own tradition of Dando Los Dias a tradition that dated back hundreds of years. Bernie is married to Gladys Torres. Bernie, Gladys and their kids, Brian and Jeff, also participate in this annual event. Bernie is a very active member of his community in Costilla and owns a successful trucking company.
Interview Date: April 11th, 2021
Interviewer: Chris Arellano
Interview Location: Bernie Torres’ home in Costilla, New Mexico
Topics covered: Bernie’s long history with Los Dias, music, community, local traditions, Costilla, Amalia
Listen to Part 1:
Listen to Part 2:
This interview is part of Northern New Mexico Music: Past and Present, a project of the nonprofit, Questa Creative Council, dedicated to strengthening community through arts, culture, history, and education. This project is supported in part by New Mexico Arts, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs, and by the National Endowment for the Arts and Taos Community Foundation.
Questa Stories 
Beautiful traditions that are gong by the way side. I remember the group of men going to our home in Arroyo Seco ha dar Los Buenos Dias. That was the version of adult New Year’s cultural entertainment. While for children it was salir a pedir mis christmes for oranges and apples most of the time. All beautiful traditions that were enjoyed but with respect. Thank you Mr. Torres!
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Thank you for listening and for sharing your reflections on Los Dias!
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