Southern New Mexico State Fair and Rodeo brings five days full of fun entertainment, food, live music, carnival rides, and rodeo shows to the Southern New Mexico State Fairgrounds, some 20 minutes west of Las Cruces.
Entertainment
Daily entertainment features games and rides through the midway experience, showcasing some of the latest and most spectacular amusement rides in the industry for a fun family outing. For younger children, there is a petting zoo and pony rides. Special events include the Exceptional Rodeo, Sip and Shop wine tasting, a Model A Ford display, and the 4th annual Stick Horse Race. The heartbeat of the fair is traditional rodeo events.
Rodeo
Rodeo, a high-energy competition, has been attracting visitors since 1966, when the fair was first held. Riders from all across the region come here to compete for money and prizes in bull riding and breakaway roping competitions. Before the rodeo show kicks off, visitors can meet the cowboys and cowgirls in the Fan Zone. This area also offers activities for kids and adults.
Activities
In addition to the rodeo, the fair features a variety of unique competitions. Highlights include an antique tractor show with parades across the fairgrounds, a baking contest, a crazy hat competition, and Livestock shows. Visitors can enjoy a day packed with activities, including dozens of amusement rides and over a hundred food booths offering a wide range of culinary delights.
Food
Local cuisine and refreshing beverages are also a major draw at the fair. The food court offers an impressive selection of local dishes that you can only find here, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Queen and Princess of the Fair
Each year, the fair chooses the two most intelligent and representative ambassadors of the Southern New Mexico State Fair and Rodeo. The princess and the queen must demonstrate excellent sportsmanship and represent the fair publicly the following year. The Southern New Mexico State Fair and Rodeo Pageant usually takes place in late summer.
