Discover the Hidden Gems of the New Mexico State Fair!

As you know by now, the New Mexico State Fair is just around the corner, taking place September 5 to 15, 2024, which means it’s time to get excited about all the classic fun the fair offers—delicious food, thrilling rides, and lively entertainment. But beyond the well-known attractions, there are some unique experiences that you might not know you can enjoy at the fair. Let’s dive into a few of these hidden gems you should check out this year!

1. Explore the Sensory Station

One of the most innovative additions to the New Mexico State Fair is the Sensory Station, designed to provide a relaxing environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities. This calming space is equipped with sensory-friendly tools and activities, offering a quiet refuge from the hustle and bustle of the fairgrounds. It’s a fantastic way for kids and families to take a break, recharge, and then head back out to enjoy the festivities. Whether you're visiting with family members who would like to enjoy the many activities offered or simply looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, you’ll want to include the Sensory Station on your schedule of things to do.

2. Witness Feats of Strength at the Powerlifting America Competition

Don’t miss the chance to watch the New Mexico State Fair Powerlifting Competition, a Powerlifting America event. This event brings together some of the strongest individuals in the state to compete in various age groups including youth lifters. The spectator sport is a fascinating spectacle to watch. You can catch the action on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 13th – 15^th. You can check out the full schedule of events here.

3. Step Back in Time at the Drifter Lounge

Looking for a more exclusive and mysterious experience? The fair has a hidden gem for those who love a bit of intrigue—the Drifter Lounge. This speakeasy-themed lounge offers an array of local craft cocktails and provides a cozy, vintage ambiance. However, getting in isn’t as simple as walking through the door; you’ll need a special password to gain entry. Keep your ears open around the fair for clues on how to find the secret entrance and obtain the password. Once inside, you’ll be treated to live entertainment, expertly crafted drinks and a truly unique atmosphere that will transport you back to the days of prohibition.

4. Experience a Live Sheep to Shawl Demonstration

Where else but the New Mexico State Fair can you witness a Sheep to Shawl demonstration, which offers a fascinating look into the traditional art of textile creation. This live demonstration showcases the entire process of transforming raw sheep's wool into a beautifully woven shawl. Fairgoers can watch skilled artisans as they shear a sheep, card and spin the wool into yarn, and then expertly weave the yarn on a loom—all in real-time. The demonstration not only highlights the intricate craftsmanship and time-honored techniques involved in wool processing but also provides a unique educational experience, connecting visitors to the rich agricultural heritage and artisanal traditions of New Mexico.

5. Dive into Local Culture with African American, Native American and Hispanic Art Exhibits

The New Mexico State Fair is a celebration of the state’s diverse cultural heritage, and this is especially evident in the African American, Native American and Hispanic Art Exhibits. These exhibits showcase a wide range of artwork, from traditional pottery and textiles to contemporary paintings and sculptures. You can even purchase one-of-a-kind pieces to take home as a memory of your fair experience. This is a wonderful way to support local artists and learn more about the rich cultural tapestry of New Mexico.

6. Check out (Very Creative) Creative Arts Competitions

Each year, the New Mexico State Fair hosts a diverse range of creative arts competitions that showcase the incredible talents and artistic skills of participants from across the state. From traditional crafts to contemporary creations, the fair offers a platform for artisans of all kinds to shine. Among the unique competitions is egg art, where artists transform simple eggshells into stunning, intricate masterpieces. The bookbinding competition highlights the delicate and precise work of crafting beautiful, hand-bound books. For those with a flair for constructing, the Lego competition brings out imaginative and intricate builds, ranging from whimsical scenes to architectural wonders.

The fair also celebrates the fine art of woodcarving, woodturning, and woodworking, where skilled artisans demonstrate their expertise in shaping and transforming wood into functional pieces and ornate sculptures. Additionally, the fair includes competitions in calligraphy, ceramics, glass art, tole painting, and more, ensuring there’s something for every artist and art lover to enjoy. These creative arts competitions not only highlight the diverse talents within New Mexico but also foster a community of artists who inspire one another.

7. Indulge in Unique Culinary Delights

Sure, everyone knows about the funnel cakes and turkey legs, but did you know you can also indulge in some more unique culinary experiences? Look for stands offering New Mexico specialties, such as Navajo tacos, and sopapillas with honey. Don’t miss the chance to try quirky fair foods like Belgian waffle green chile cheeseburgers, chile relleno hotdogs, sweet chimichangas and deep-fried cheese curds, with or without green chile (are you noting a theme here?). This is a food experience you won’t find anywhere else!

You’ll also want to bear witness to the one-of-a-kind food competitions, including the Unique Foods Contest and the Green Chile Cheeseburger Championship. If you’re one of the lucky few you may even be able to snag a ticket to sample some of the best green chile cheeseburgers in the land on competition day. Check out our site for more details!

8. Get a Bird’s Eye View on the Sky Ride

For those looking for an adrenaline rush and a spectacular view, the state fair sky ride offers a unique way to see the fairgrounds and Albuquerque from above. This thrilling experience provides a bird’s-eye view of the fair’s beautiful grounds as well as an opportunity to scope out the many activities, entertainment and food options from high above the action.

9. Be Entertained by the Unexpected

Aside from the scheduled shows and concerts, the fair is full of unexpected entertainment. From strolling DJs, to duck races, stilt walkers, sea lions and so much more, there’s always something surprising happening around every corner. Keep your eyes peeled for these spontaneous acts that add an extra layer of magic to your fair experience.

Conclusion

The New Mexico State Fair offers more than just the traditional fair fun—it’s a vibrant celebration filled with unique experiences that showcase the best of New Mexico. Whether you’re exploring the Sensory Station, cheering on the power lifters, or indulging in a new food adventure, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. So, mark your calendars for September 5-15, 2024, and get ready for a fair experience like no other!

See you at the fairgrounds!