New Mexico State Fair - SantaFe.com

Founded in 1938, the New Mexico State Fair has been drawing crowds to experience all the fun and excitement of rural living, firsthand. From livestock competitions and agricultural displays, to live entertainment, arts & crafts, and midway booths, the Fair is good ol’ fashioned, family fun. It’s also the biggest show in New Mexico, attracting over 500,000 attendees annually, and ranking in the Top 5 of the nation, based on affordability. The New Mexico State Fair fills EXPO NM in Albuquerque with down home entertainment, September 7 – 17, 2023.

Held every Fall, usually in September, one of the main draws of the Fair is, of course, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association events. Bringing together some of the most skilled cowboys and cowgirls in the state for a full slate of activities, including bull riding, bareback riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and more, the talent and sportsmanship on display are breathtaking and enthralling.

If culture is your thing, the Indian and Spanish villages are always a draw, with vendors selling handicrafts, gifts, clothing and more. Environmental groups and organizations provide activities and present information about local community projects and volunteering opportunities. Art exhibits? Plenty. Food? More choices than you can imagine, especially if fried is your favorite food group. And the ever-present FFA school groups are always on hand to restore your faith in humanity, with politeness and ingenuity. When they say there’s something for everyone, they’re not kidding. So long as you’re willing to put aside preconceived ideas and simply enjoy the moment.

Some of the events taking place at the State Fair this year are:

  • Beef Jerky Showdown 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8
  • Battle of the Salsas 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 9
  • Green Chile Cheese Burger Challenge 12 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 11
  • Red, White and Brews Happy Hours 3 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8, Saturday, Sept. 9, Friday, Sept. 15 and Saturday, Sept 16
  • Country Store will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7 through Sunday, Sept. 17 (located inside the Agriculture Building)

Among the other events taking place during the Fair are car shows, live concerts and performances, a petting zoo, carnival rides, games, an annual parade, and so much more. Daily themes offer plenty of chances to try different activities, events and shows, with learning opportunities galore. Tickets to the Fair vary based on age, with Seniors and Children tickets available for $8, and adult tickets for $15. For more information, including a full schedule when available, visit the website.

This article was posted by David Salcido

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