The 2024 New Mexico State Fair is just around the corner and promises to be bigger and better than ever! With new attractions, thrilling rides, delicious food, and a packed lineup of concerts and events, this year’s fair is set to deliver unforgettable experiences for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned fair-goer or planning your first visit, this comprehensive guide has everything you need to know to make the most of your time at the 2024 New Mexico State Fair.
Fair Dates and Hours:
Mark your calendars! The 2024 New Mexico State Fair runs from September 5th to September 15th. Here are the daily operating hours:
- 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.
Whether you’re planning to visit during the week or over the weekend, be sure to check the hours to make the most of your fair experience.
Themed Days:
The 2024 New Mexico State Fair offers a variety of themed days, each bringing something unique to the event. Here’s a look at what you can expect:
- September 5 – Law Enforcement Appreciation Day:
Opening day honors local and state law enforcement. Fair-goers can meet members of SWAT teams, explore the BAT Mobile, and learn about New Mexico’s law enforcement agencies. All law enforcement officers receive free admission with a valid ID. - September 6 – Fire Fighters & Smokey Bear Day, Red Ribbon Relay Day:
Main Street and Heritage Avenue will showcase fire engines, vintage fire trucks, and emergency response vehicles. Firefighters receive free admission with a valid ID or uniform. The day also features the Red Ribbon Relay Run, raising awareness about the impact of drugs and alcohol on communities. - September 7 – MOPARs, Classic VW’s and Classic Jaguars Car Show:
A showcase of some of the best automobiles from the 1960s and 1970s, including vintage VW Bugs, Buses, and classic Jaguars. - September 8 – Model T’s, Model A’s, Early Ford V8’s, Antique Car Show:
Celebrate automotive history with a display of Model T’s, Model A’s, and other classic American cars, along with vintage tractors. - September 9 – Seniors’ Celebration & Healthy Living Day:
A day dedicated to honoring local senior citizens, featuring health screenings, flu shots, and a variety of information booths focused on healthy living. Sponsored by the New Mexico Department of Health and Aging and Long Term Services Department. - September 10 – Military & Veterans Appreciation Day:
A tribute to military personnel and veterans, with a special ceremony at 11:00 AM under the NMSF Pavilion Stage. All military and veterans receive free admission with a valid ID or uniform. - September 11 – Pathway to College & Career Days:
Students can meet college and trade school recruiters from across New Mexico and neighboring states. The event also includes environmental research exhibits. - September 12 – New Mexico True Day & Gathering of Counties:
Celebrate the unique culture and beauty of New Mexico, with opportunities to plan your next in-state adventure. - September 13 – Science & Technology and Environmental Appreciation Day:
Explore STEM exhibits, hands-on chemistry experiments, and demonstrations from New Mexico’s top scientists and engineers. - September 14 – Hot Rods & Custom Cars/Classic Mustangs:
Enjoy a showcase of custom cars, hot rods, low riders, and classic Mustangs, along with special programming and performances in the Indian Village for Native American Day. - September 15 – Classic Cars, Trucks and Corvairs Show:
The final day of the fair features a display of classic American cars, trucks, and Corvairs, offering a nostalgic end to the event.
Admission Prices:
Admission to the New Mexico State Fair remains affordable for everyone. Here’s what you need to know about ticket prices:
On-site Ticket Prices
- Adults (13-64 years old): $20.00
- Seniors (65 and older): $15.00
- Kids (6-12 years old): $15.00
- Children 5 and under: FREE
Online Ticket Prices
- Adults (13-64 years old): $15.00
- Seniors (65 and older): $10.00
- Kids (6-12 years old): $10.00
- Children 5 and under: FREE
Buy your tickets online on the New Mexico State Fair Website.
Deals & Discounts:
Take advantage of special deals and discounts during the 2024 New Mexico State Fair:
- Opening Day (Sept. 5):
Enjoy $2 admission and $2 ride tickets on opening day. Tickets can only be purchased at the gates with cash. - Mega Pass:
For $35, get one-day admission and an unlimited ride wristband. This pass allows you to skip the gate ticketing lines for faster entry. Available for purchase until September 6th at 11:59 PM. - Graze Days (Sept. 5 & 12):
Every Thursday during the fair, all food vendors will offer one regular menu item for $5 or less from 10 AM to 4 PM. - Teacher Appreciation (Sept. 7-8):
Teachers get in free with a district-issued ID or pay stub. - State Employee Appreciation Day (Sept. 7):
State employees receive $10 admission with a valid ID badge or pay stub. Free admission for firefighters and first responders with a valid ID. - Military/Veteran’s Day (Sept. 10):
Free admission for all active and retired military personnel and veterans with valid ID. General admission is $5 with $30 ride wristbands. - Dollar Day (Sept. 11):
Enjoy $1 admission all day. All rides are $1 per ride, with a minimum purchase of 10 rides required. - Everyone is a Kid Today (Sept. 12):
$8 admission for everyone, with $30 ride wristbands available. Graze Days offers $5 menu items from 10 AM to 4 PM. - City & County Employee Appreciation Day (Sept. 13):
City and county employees receive $8 admission with a valid employment ID. $40 ride wristbands are available.
New Attractions and Entertainment:
The 2024 New Mexico State Fair is pulling out all the stops with exciting new attractions and entertainment options:
- Pink Poodle Show: A delightful and fun-filled show featuring adorable pink poodles performing tricks and stunts.
- Jet Pack Show: Prepare to be amazed as performers take to the skies in an exhilarating jet pack show.
- Foaming Party Area: Cool off and enjoy some bubbly fun in this unique foaming party area.
- Professional Wrestling: For the first time, the fair will feature live professional wrestling matches—don’t miss out on the action!
Concerts and Rodeo:
The New Mexico State Fair has an incredible lineup of concerts and rodeo events for 2024. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- September 5: New Mexico Barrel Racing Association Barrel Racing
- September 6: Jo Dee Messina with PRCA Xtreme Bulls
- September 7: Becky G with PRCA Xtreme Bulls
- September 11: PRCA Rodeo
- September 12: Brad Paisley with PRCA Rodeo
- September 13: Cole Swindell with PRCA Rodeo
- September 14: Josh Turner with PRCA Rodeo
- September 15: PRCA Rodeo – Matinee
Concert and rodeo tickets include admission to the fairgrounds, but if you’re planning to see Becky G, please note that floor seats for her concert do not include admission to the PRCA Xtreme Bulls Rodeo.
For more information, see our article: Concert and Rodeo Lineup for the 2024 New Mexico State Fair
Food and Vendors:
Foodies, rejoice! The 2024 New Mexico State Fair is adding 20 new food vendors alongside classic favorites like the iconic green chile burger. Here’s what you can expect:
- Classic Favorites: Enjoy all your fair favorites, from turkey legs to funnel cakes.
- New Offerings: Stay tuned for the announcement of new food vendors who will be bringing fresh and exciting flavors to the fair.
- Speakeasy Experience: For the adults, a speakeasy with a steampunk theme is being added to the Lujan C Building. It promises a unique and immersive experience—just be sure to get the code to enter!
Related Article: Foodie’s Guide to the 2024 New Mexico State Fair – Discover the must-try foods and where to find them at the fair!
Getting There and Parking:
The New Mexico State Fair is located at 300 San Pedro NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. Here’s how to get there and where to park:
- Driving: Take I-40 and exit at San Mateo or Louisiana. Follow the signs to EXPO New Mexico. Only right turns are allowed into the fairgrounds.
- Park and Ride: For those visiting on weekends, take advantage of the Park and Ride service from Coronado Center. It operates on Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. (with return rides until midnight) and on Sundays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets cost $10.
- Parking Options:
- Gate 1 (Central Avenue): Parking is available for $10.00 from Monday through Thursday and $20.00 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Gate 1 also offers the best access to handicap parking, making it a convenient choice for those with accessibility needs.
- Gate 8 (Louisiana Boulevard): This gate offers ample parking at $10.00, but it tends to fill up quickly. Please note that handicap access at Gate 8 is limited, with inclined tunnel access into the fairgrounds.
- Handicap Parking: Handicap parking is available at Gate 1 and Gate 8 for vehicles with a valid handicap placard, provided the placard holder is present in the vehicle. For easier access, Gate 1 is recommended due to better accessibility.
- Parking Restrictions: Parking in the Fair West community on the west side of the fairgrounds is strictly prohibited.
- Cycling: If you prefer to bike, check out the bike map available on the fair’s website.
What’s Allowed:
Before heading to the fair, make sure you know what you can and cannot bring:
- Permitted:
- Sealed water bottle (1 per person)
- Baby formula and items for special/medical needs
- Service animals
- Prohibited:
- Deadly weapons
- Outside food and drinks (except for the exceptions listed above)
Smoking is allowed in designated areas only.
Related Article: Tips for a Great Day at the 2024 New Mexico State Fair – Helpful advice on what to bring, how to dress, and more!
Safety and Security:
Safety is a top priority at the 2024 New Mexico State Fair, with several new measures in place:
- Enhanced Security: The fair has introduced new metal detectors with AI technology at entrances, similar to those used in NFL stadiums. These detectors not only identify metal objects but also recognize specific items, helping to speed up the entry process.
- Lost and Found: Located at the VetSec building for any lost items.
- Tag Your Tots: The New Mexico State Police “Tag Your Tots” booth is located south of the Fine Arts Gallery to help keep children safe.
- Weather Shelters: In case of severe weather, shelters are available at the Tingley Coliseum lobby, Manuel Lujan Building, and Creative Arts Center.
- Mobility Rentals: Scooters, strollers, and wheelchairs can be rented at Gate 1, Gate 4, and Gate 8.
The 2024 New Mexico State Fair is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, packed with new attractions, delicious food, exciting entertainment, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Whether you’re attending for the concerts, the rides, or the unique New Mexico culture, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visit now, and get ready to experience all the fun and excitement that the fair has to offer!
