The 2023 New Mexico State Fair is just around the corner, bringing with it all the excitement, fun, and tradition that fair-goers have come to love. From thrilling rides and delicious food to live entertainment and special recognition days, this year’s fair promises something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fair veteran, this guide will help you make the most of your experience. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2023 New Mexico State Fair.
Fair Dates and Hours: The 2023 New Mexico State Fair kicks off on September 7th and runs through September 17th. The fairgrounds at EXPO New Mexico will be buzzing with activity every day, so be sure to check the hours below to plan your visit:
- Fair Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Friday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Midway Hours:
- Monday – Friday: Opens at 2:00 p.m.
- Saturday – Sunday: Opens at 10:00 a.m.
- Kiddie Land Hours:
- Monday – Friday: Opens at 12:00 p.m.
- Saturday – Sunday: Opens at 10:00 a.m.
Admission Prices: Admission to the New Mexico State Fair is affordable, with various pricing options to accommodate everyone:
- Adults (13-64 years old): $15.00
- Seniors (65 and older): $8.00
- Kids (5-12 years old): $8.00
- Children 5 and under: FREE
For those looking to save a little, there are several discount days throughout the fair (details below), so be sure to take advantage of these opportunities.
Discount Days and Special Recognition: The New Mexico State Fair offers a range of discounted admission days and special recognition for various groups. Here’s a quick rundown:
- September 7, 2023 – Opening Day:
- $4 Admission
- $30 Ride Wristband
- Graze Days: All food vendors offer one regular menu item for just $5 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Law Enforcement Day: Free admission for NM Law Enforcement officers and personnel with valid ID.
- September 8 – 10, 2023 – Teacher Appreciation Day:
- Free admission for teachers with district-issued ID or pay stub.
- September 8, 2023 – State Employee Appreciation Day:
- $8 admission for state employees with valid ID or pay stub.
- Firefighter & First Responders Day: Free admission for firefighters and first responders with valid ID.
- Monday, September 11, 2023 – Four Dollar Day:
- $4 admission all day
- $30 ride wristbands
- Tuesday, September 12, 2023 – Military/Veteran’s Day:
- Free admission for all active & retired military and veterans with valid ID.
- $5 admission for others
- $30 ride wristbands
- Wednesday, September 13, 2023 – Dollar Day:
- $1.00 admission all day
- Dollar Rides: All rides are $1 per ride (minimum purchase of 10 rides required).
- Thursday, September 14, 2023 – Everyone is a Kid Today:
- $8 admission all day
- $30 ride wristbands
- Graze Days: All food vendors offer one regular menu item for just $5 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- September 15, 2023 – City & County Employee Appreciation Day:
- $8 admission for city or county employees with valid ID
- $40 ride wristbands
Planning to spend the whole day at the fair? Consider bringing along a Portable Phone Charger to keep your devices powered up throughout the day.
Concerts and Rodeo: The 2023 New Mexico State Fair is bringing in big names and thrilling rodeo action. Here’s the lineup for the concerts and rodeo events:
- September 8: Mammoth WVH with PRCA Xtreme Bulls
- September 9: Justin Moore with PRCA Xtreme Bulls
- September 12: Chancey Williams with Ranch Rodeo
- September 14: The Country Comeback Tour featuring Shenandoah with PRCA Rodeo
- September 15: Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez / Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles
- September 16: 311 with PRCA Rodeo
Tickets for the concerts and rodeo events can be purchased through the New Mexico State Fair website.
How to Get There: Getting to the New Mexico State Fair is easy, whether you’re driving, taking a ride-share, or using public transportation. Here are your options:
- Driving: Take I-40 and exit on the San Mateo Blvd or Louisiana Blvd exits. Head south on either road and follow the directions to EXPO New Mexico. Remember, only right turns are allowed into the fairgrounds.
- Ride-Share: Ride-share vehicles have dedicated entry gates and pre-planned routes into EXPO New Mexico.
- Bus: ABQ Ride provides bus services to the fair. For more information, visit the ABQ Ride website.
Themed Days: Each day at the fair offers something special with various themed events:
- Sept. 7: Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
- Sept. 8: Firefighter and Smokey Bear Day, Red Ribbon Relay Day
- Sept. 9: MOPARs, Classic VW’s and Classic Jaguars Car Show
- Sept. 10: Historic Car Show
- Sept. 11: Seniors’ Celebration Day & Healthy Living Day, NM Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge
- Sept. 12: Military & Veterans Appreciation Day
- Sept. 13: Pathway to College and Career Days
- Sept. 14: New Mexico True Day and Gathering of Counties
- Sept. 15: Science & Technology and Environmental Appreciation Day
- Sept. 16: Hot Rods & Custom Cars/Classic Mustangs
- Sept. 17: Classic Car, Truck, and Corvairs Show
Food, Rides, and Attractions: No fair experience is complete without indulging in some delicious food, enjoying thrilling rides, and checking out the many attractions. Be sure to visit Graze Days for special $5 menu items, and don’t miss Kiddie Land for family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a foodie, a thrill-seeker, or just looking to enjoy the fair atmosphere, there’s something here for you.
Related Article: Foodie’s Guide to the 2023 New Mexico State Fair: What to Eat – Discover the must-try foods and where to find them at the fair!
The 2023 New Mexico State Fair is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience. With so much to see, do, and enjoy, make sure you plan your visit to take full advantage of everything the fair has to offer. Whether you’re there for the rides, the food, the concerts, or just the unique New Mexico culture, the fair is sure to deliver memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out—mark your calendars and get ready for the fun!
