2023 New Mexico State Fair Guide

PRESENTED BY

2023 New Mexico State Fair - General Information

FAIR HOURS:

Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday & Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

GENERAL ADMISSION:

Adults (age 12-64): $15

Seniors (age 65 & up): $8

Children (age 6 – 11): $8

Children 5 & under: FREE

PARKING: Check website for pricing.

BIKE VALET:

Free Bike Valet: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily

Located just south of Villa Hispana (via Gate 4, enter from San Pedro between Copper & Lomas)

September 7

17

MIDWAY HOURS:

Monday – Friday: Open at 2:00 PM Saturdays & Sundays: Open at 10:00 AM

WHEELCHAIR AND STROLLER RENTALS: Rentals available at Gates 1, 4 and 8. All rentals require a valid driver’s license and a fee.

SENSORY STATION:

The Sensory Station provides a safe space for our special needs Fair guests to de-escalate, and provides low-key and helpful sensory input activities. The Sensory Station is located inside the Youth Hall and is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

ENCOUNTER CULTURE

Photo credit to Nathaniel Paolinelli for all fair photography.

Dear Visitors,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the New Mexico State Fair. Whether this is your first time, or your 50th, we’re thrilled at the opportunity to deliver this time-honored event to the citizens of our great state. As we come together to celebrate our state’s diversity and beauty, we’re proud to announce that the New Mexico State Fair continues to rank among some of the best fairs in the nation, known for first-rate programming and exceptional affordability.

We are pulling out all the stops to bring you a State Fair event you will not soon forget. The State Fair is a major production, and like the movie and television industry that has made New Mexico a favorite location for bringing big ideas to life, the New Mexico State Fair is excited to roll out the red carpet for our

New Mexico has a long and successful tie to Hollywood. From the very first moving picture filmed in the state in 1895 at the Isleta Day School, to the success of TV shows like Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, to big productions like Independence Day Resurgence filmed right inside Tingley Coliseum, to this summer’s phenomenal blockbuster hit, Oppenheimer, New Mexico and New Mexicans have been major players in this multi-million-dollar industry. According to the New Mexico Film Office, our great state ranks among the Top 10 Places to Live and Work in Film.

This year, film production is taking center stage at the New Mexico State Fair. You may hear familiar voices announcing the day's events over the PA system or grab a selfie with a Star Wars character wandering around the grounds. You may recognize some familiar movie music themes covered by any one of the great New Mexico bands on one of our stages. You may find yourself behind the news anchor desk reporting on fair events or signing up to be an extra on a movie inside the Manuel Lujan Building.

Making lifelong memories with the people you love is what the fair is all about. From the cultural experiences that are distinctly New Mexican and extraordinary food options, to the outstanding lineup of rodeo and concert entertainment, you’re sure to find familiar favorites and new ones, too. You won’t find a more diverse and dynamic entertainment experience that offers such value for the price of admission as you will find here. This year’s theme is “Fair Famous” and we’re here to entertain you, the most important VIP on the grounds. Get camera-ready, and bring your appetite for food, culture, and fun to the 2023 New Mexico State Fair!

Yours truly,

D an Mourning General Manager

effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented in this guide. The publisher does not take responsibility for the accuracy or legitimacy of the advertisers’ messages or that of the guest writers/columnists or any aspect of the business operation or conduct of the advertisers in the magazine.

Presenting Sponsor Chevron Fuels Fair with Science

By Autumn Gray

Red and blue ribbons won’t only be seen on livestock at this year’s New Mexico State Fair. As presenting sponsor for the second consecutive year, Chevron’s recognizable red- and blue-blazed logo will also have a sizeable presence during the 11-day event – particularly September 15-17. That’s when the energy company will transform the fairground’s Manuel Lujan Building into a science lab that substitutes bikes, weights and high-tech gadgets for beakers and centrifuges, welcoming fairgoers of all ages to the Chevron STEM Zone.

The interactive mobile space will provide students, teachers and parents with fun experiences that illustrate how science, technology, engineering and math concepts are connected to everyday life, while also offering a glimpse into Chevron’s hightech operations.

Chevron will have at least three of its STEM Zone mobile modules on hand: A Hydration Station is designed to test participants’ reaction times and is related to work conducted by Chevron engineers whose job is to maintain proper lubrication of machinery for safety and efficiency. An Injection Molding Station will use a small-scale machine to allow guests to replicate Chevron’s use of injection molding software to monitor the Earth’s crust. The final module teaches about thermodynamics, or thermal imaging, which Chevron uses to monitor the temperature of large machinery. Participants in the Thermal Imaging Module get to take thermal images of their bodies before and after physical activity.

“Part of Chevron’s mission is to invest in tomorrow’s workforce,” said Beverly Allen, public and government affairs advisor for Chevron. “The STEM Zone is built to be a hands-on environment, like a discovery museum, introducing kids to the sciences in such novel ways that they don’t even know they’re learning and making connections with potential career paths.”

Chevron also partners with organizations to create opportunities for children to imagine, design and make things in support of the global Maker Movement. The initiative aims to empower students and adults to create, innovate, tinker and turn their ideas into reality. This year during the fair’s STEM and Environment Day on September 15, Chevron is partnering with New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom, a non-profit educational outreach program funded primarily by the membership of the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau. Together, the organizations are presenting a Seed, Soil and Sun “Agtivity,” in which participants will learn how to create their own garden in a necklace using materials such as seeds, yarn, and cotton.

“We call it a ‘pollinator activity’ because it teaches about plants that pollinate and how vital pollination is to the earth's terrestrial ecosystems,” Allen said. While gardening and child safety may sound a bit outside of Chevron’s natural element, that’s not necessarily the case. The company, which employs about 250 people full-time in New Mexico, is intentional about its presence and community participation extending well beyond energy. Indeed, part of Chevron’s goal in serving as the fair’s presenting sponsor is to help celebrate and promote New Mexico’s rich cultural and

agricultural heritage as it does throughout the year statewide. “We want to give back to where we live,” Allen said.

For example, since 2008, Chevron has committed more than $10 million in social investments by supporting economic development in the Village of Questa and surrounding communities in Taos County, including buildout of the Questa Business Park. The site is home to the well-known Taos Bakes energy bars.

Chevron sponsors multiple educational initiatives, including a conservation program that teaches Eddy County third-graders about the importance of soil management and clean and safe water. The company provides an interactive water table that shows the erosion that occurs without flood control and proper vegetation.

Chevron employees have also volunteered with the Bureau of Land Management in efforts to prevent erosion impacting critical Black River habitat of the Texas Hornshell mussel, the last native mussel to the state of New Mexico.

Year-round, Chevron volunteers support local nonprofits, food pantries and schools; foster STEM activities at New Mexico State University; and help protect food security by supporting the local farmers market in Questa.

Chevron has been a leading energy producer in New Mexico and the Permian Basin since the early 1920s via its legacy entities such as Texaco. Focused primarily on oil and gas production, Chevron is an energy company with one of the largest net acreages in the Permian Basin, which includes Eddy and Lea counties in southern New Mexico and many west Texas counties.

Main Street Theme Days

Thursday, September 7 Law Enforcement Day

Friday, September 8

Firefighters & Smokey Bear Day Red Ribbon Relay

Saturday, September 9

PARADE DAY

MOPARs, Classic VW’s and Classic Jaguars Car Show

Sunday, September 10

Model T’s, Model A’s, Early Ford V8’s, Antique Car Show VMCCA, Classic Tractors

Monday, September 11

NMSF Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge Seniors’ Celebration & Healthy Living Day

Tuesday, September 12 Military & Veterans Appreciation Day

Wednesday, September 13 Pathway to College & Careers Day

Thursday, September 14 New Mexico True Day Gathering of Counties

Friday, September 15 Science & Technology and Environmental Appreciation Day

Saturday, September 16 Hot Rods & Custom Cars / Classic Mustangs Car Show

Sunday, September 17 Classic Cars, Trucks, and Corvairs Show

State Fair Featured Beer

By Tania Soussan

Ex Novo Brewing Co., was hard at work early this summer developing the Dusty Spur, an American pilsner that will be this year’s State Fair beer.

The Dusty Spur is a refreshing, approachable brew, somewhere between a light lager and a European pilsner on the bitterness scale, said James Gregory, sales manager for Ex Novo.

The New Mexico State Fair is the only fair in the country that partners with a brewery to create a co-branded beer on a custom label, said fair general manager Dan Mourning, adding that the agreement with Ex Novo is for two years.

This will mark the seventh year that the fair has had an official drink. La Cumbre Brewing Co., kicked things off with a cream ale in 2015. Marble Brewery later crafted a hazy pale ale, and Canteen Brewhouse put out a Germanstyle pilsner. Over the last two years, Tumbleroot Brewery & Distillery has created a blue corn lager and an “angry mule” made with red chile for the 2021 fair, as well as a vodka-spiked strawberry lemonade for last year’s fair.

The Dusty Spur beer is expected to be sold in stores and at the fair. “The public loves a great microbrew,” so the State Fair beers always sell out, Mourning said.

2023 New Mexico State Fair Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge Contestants

Sparky’s* - Hatch

Big Mike’s Burgers & More** - Belen

Oso Grill - Capitan

Slate Street Billiards - Rio Rancho

Phat Stax - Albuquerque

Sunset Grill - Albuquerque

Voo Doo Burgers - Las Cruces

Laguna Burger - Laguna Pueblo

Electric Playhouse - Albuquerque

*2022 Blind Judging Winner

**2022 People’s Choice Winner

STAY & WIN!

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State Fair Contests

By Tania Soussan

Winninga blue ribbon at the New Mexico State Fair no longer requires a huge investment in raising a cow or sewing a masterpiece quilt. The fair is expanding its offerings of competitions for children and adults this year with everything from flower arranging time trials to Christmas tree decorating.

"There's a misconception that it's just corn dogs and concerts," said general manager Dan Mourning, explaining that the fair’s roots lie in bringing ranchers and farmers together from across the state to compare what they’re growing. "Competitions are the backbone of the fair. … It’s amazing how we get the creative and competitive juices flowing.”

The State Fair has been adding new contests in recent years and has even more in the works. Several are designed for youths and add to the traditional Future Farmers of America and 4-H offerings that center on raising livestock.

“There are a lot of ways kids can participate in the State Fair,” said Frannie Miller, assistant professor at New Mexico State University and contest coordinator for the fair.

Recent additions to the fair line-up, such as agri-science, public speaking, and a floral design competition, give children who aren’t raising animals a way to be active participants and enjoy the experience of competing in person, Miller said.

“We’re getting a good response and are excited to see them grow,” she said of the contests.

The three new youth competitions are open to children whether or not they are involved in FFA or 4-H. Ag New Mexico Farm Credit, which sponsors them, will award belt buckles and scholarships to the winners.

“These are extremely smart kids with a lot of talent and ideas,” Mourning said.

Among the competitions planned for this year’s fair are:

• Agri-science – Like a traditional science fair but with focus on agriculture and natural resources, this competition could include everything from baking science, to experiments that might one day help solve food shortage issues.

• Public speaking – Entrants must conduct independent research on a natural resource topic and submit a manuscript in advance, then give a speech in person. Miller said she hopes that some children enter both the agri-science and public speaking contests with projects on the same topic.

• Floral design – This contest for high school-age youths will tap into student creativity. A limited number of entrants will work in teams to create a flower arrangement in a set amount of time, using materials provided by the fair.

• Tablescaping – This contest, which premiered as a virtual event in 2020 during the pandemic, will be held in person for the first time this year. Entrants are challenged to create a dining room table design. “We had a great response,” said Oona Gonzales, media and marketing manager for Expo New Mexico.

• Christmas tree decorating – Some people might feel intimidated by arts and crafts competitions like baking, quilting and woodworking, but decorating a Christmas tree is intended as a relatively easy alternative. The fair will provide a “naked” tree, and entrants will take materials to decorate it. “I know it sounds strange, but it’s really cool and very popular at other fairs,” Mourning said. “This is something anybody can do.”

(continued on next page)

Welcome To The 2023

New Mexico State Fair!

State Fair Contests

(continued from previous page)

Of course, the perennial professional food competitions will still be around. The Beef Jerky Showdown will return, and both the popular salsa competition and the 15-year-old green chile cheeseburger challenge are back. Each bestows a coveted blue ribbon on the winning restaurant or commercial vendor.

“We’re New Mexico, baby, and when it comes down to the chile and salsa, we reign supreme,” Mourning said.

Participating in competitions is healthy and builds confidence, Mourning said, adding that “a little friendly competition always helps.”

The fair is a “soft place to land” in the world of competitions, Gonzales added. “Part of the fun is knowing thousands of people will see what you’ve done in a real tactile sort of way, not like a picture on Instagram or Facebook or social media.”

What’s in store for future fair competitions? A battle of the bands to join the karaoke competition, perhaps. A best cannabis gummy also isn’t out of the question, Mourning said.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham

Dr. Carol Cloer Bloomfield

Eric Serna Chairman, NM State Fair Commission Santa Fe

Benny Roybal Secretary-Treasurer Española

Tony Casados Tierra Amarilla

Walter Adams Las Vegas

Larry Chavez, Sr. Albuquerque

Fair's Events, Culture Fosters Inclusivity

By Autumn Gray

Whenstate fairs come to mind, most people think of rodeos, livestock, games and rides, and a mess of foods to eat on a stick. Indeed, the New Mexico State Fair attracts tens of thousands each year who know they can count on these traditional staples. However, as the fair has evolved, its culture has become synonymous with inclusivity as much as it is with agriculture, ranching, and entertainment.

Any fair worth its weight in manure in the 21st century should be innovating and creating diverse programming, and the NM State Fair is leading the way in this regard, said fair general manager Dan Mourning. Indeed, the NM State Fair made history in 2022, as the only state fair in the country to have been selected twice by the Western Fairs Association as the location for its annual Feature Fair Tour. The tour gives industry peers and partners an opportunity to tour a fair that is considered a model of innovation and best practices.

Three factors have elevated the NM State Fair to superstar status in the industry. One of those elements is the well-known Sensory Station, a first-of-its-kind, nationally recognized initiative to accommodate neurodiversity, giving all families equal opportunity to enjoy the fair. The Sensory Station provides a calm, safe space for any overwhelmed, over-stimulated State Fair guests by providing low-key and helpful sensory input activities.

While the Sensory Station has become a cornerstone of innovative programming, it is only one of several areas the fair has designed to ensure that all feel welcome and are offered equal opportunities to participate.

State Fair art director Ramona Vigil-Eastwood developed an art competition section five years ago for developmentally challenged artists. Entries are displayed in the Creative Arts Building on the fairgrounds along with the amateur adult artists and youth artists. All are judged by professionals in the local industry and receive prizes and ribbons, including participation ribbons.

Participants are divided by age in categories of 12 and under, 13-18, and 19 and older. Entries can be in any medium, and artists can enter up to four pieces of work. Developmentally challenged artists entered 24 works last year.

"They get to do whatever they feel like they want to do. I see a lot of drawings and paintings. Some of these folks tend to go to animals a lot. Some do landscape," Vigil-Eastwood said. "We want them to feel empowered with what they’re bringing us. It gives them a lot of self-esteem."

Those who drop by to view the art, much of which will be for sale, will likely be greeted by Aaron Ohlhausen. Ohlhausen, who has for several years placed his own photos in the Developmentally Challenged Artists Competition, has also during that time served as a general aide to Vigil-Eastwood in the event’s operation.

When not working, Ohlhausen said, he enjoys looking at what everyone else has submitted to see if there is anything he’d like to purchase. Ohlhausen specialized in art in college in Roswell. "Sometimes I go to Orlando in Florida, and one of the pictures I entered at the State Fair was from when I was riding a big roller coaster. There a big dip that goes down, and I took it then," he said of a recent entry, adding that he particularly appreciates photos that succeed in displaying texture.

All artwork will be on display from Sept. 6-17. However, free entry is available to the public on Preview Night from 6-8 p.m. Sept. 6, when people get a VIP glimpse at the pieces, can mingle with the artists, and make purchases.

Other regular events that exemplify the fair’s emphasis on inclusivity are:

• Special Needs Flower Show – Eleven classes of competition are open to exhibitors of all ages and abilities who have grown their entries. Categories include everything from flowers, to fruits and vegetables, container grown plants, trees, herbs, and more. The show can be seen during regular fair hours. https:// statefair.exponm.com/p/participate/competitions/floriculture

• Out @ the Fair – A full day of programming and familyfriendly entertainment will celebrate New Mexico’s LGBTQ+ community on Sept. 10.

• New Mexico Special Orchestra – A talented group of musicians perform on the Chevron Pavilion Stage on opening day at 10 a.m.

“We want to make people aware that the State Fair is more than just concerts and corn dogs,” Mourning said. “Everybody deserves to have the State Fair experience. This is New Mexico’s Disneyland.”

Rodeo & Concert Series at

Times subject to change.

Tingley Coliseum

Tickets available online at www.exponm.com

Friday, September 8th Mammoth WVH with PRCA Xtreme Bulls

Tickets: Box - $75; Chair Back – $60; Bench - $25

Thursday, September 14th PRCA Rodeo with the Country Comeback Tour feat. Shenandoah, Wayne Hayes, and Billy Dean Tickets: Box - $75; Chair Back – $60; Bench - $25

Saturday, September 9th Justin Moore with PRCA Xtreme Bulls Tickets: Box - $75; Chair Back – $60; Bench - $25

Friday, September 15th PRCA Rodeo with Mariachi Sol De Mexico De Jose Hernandez & Mariachi Reynas de Los Angeles Tickets: Box: $75; Chair Back: $60; Bench: $25

New Mexico State Fair Horse Show Schedule

Tuesday, September 12th

Chancey Williams with Ranch Rodeo Tickets: Box - $40; Chair Back – $25; Bench - $15

Wednesday, September 13th

PRCA Rodeo

Tickets: Box - $40; Chair Back – $25; Bench - $15

Saturday, September 16th 311 with PRCA Rodeo Tickets: Box - $75; Chair Back – $60; Bench - $25

September 7th 10:00 AM Meet the horses

September 8th 10:00 AM Game Day

September 9th-10th 9:00 AM Pinto Horse Show

September 11th-13th 10:00 AM Ranch Horse Show

September 14th-15th 10:00 AM All Breed Horse Show

September 16th 9:00 AM 4-H Horse Show

September 17th 9:00 AM Barrel Race

Sunday, September 17th PRCA Rodeo (matinee begins at 4:00 pm)

Tickets: Box: $40; Chair Back: $25; Bench: $15

Spectaculars

Free with Admission

Southwest Dairy Farmers Location: Jr. Livestock Building

9:30am, 11:15am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:15pm

Great American Duck Races

Location: Youth Hall Courtyard

11:00am, 1:00am, 3:30pm, 5:30pm

Additional Races: Sat & Sun: 7:30pm

Chef Landry Comedy Show

Location: Manuel Lujan Building - B

11:15am, 1:30pm, 3:45pm, 6:00pm

Sea Lion Splash

Location: Kiddie Lot

11:30am, 2:00pm, 4:00pm, 6:30pm

Additional Show: Fri & Sat: 8:45pm

Pig Races

Location: Box Car Lawn

11:00am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 5:00pm, 7:30pm

Petting Farm Location: Box Car Lawn

Sun-Thurs: 10:00am-9:00pm Fri & Sat: 10:00am-10:00pm

Pony Rides Location: Box Car Lawn

Sun-Thurs: 10:00am-9:00pm Fri & Sat: 10:00am-10:00pm

UNM Truman Health ServicesHIV & HEP C Testing

Location: Box Car Lawn

Everyday 10:00am-8:00pm

Conjurer Fortune Machine Location: Manuel Lujan Building - C

11:30am, 1:45pm, 3:45pm, 6:00pm

Additional show Sat & Sun: 8:00pm

The Comedy of Bill Robison

Location: Main Street Stage 4:15pm, 6:00pm, 7:45pm

Jason D’ Vaude The Circus Man

Location: Main Street Stage 3:30pm, 5:00pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm

Salsa Steel Drum Band

Strolling act: 10:30am, 12:15pm, 2:00pm, 3:45pm, 5:30pm

Stilt Circus Strolling Act

2:15pm, 4:30pm, 6:45pm

Street Drum Corps

Strolling Act

12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 5:30pm, 7:00pm, 8:45pm

New Mexico State Fair Ambassadogs

Strolling Act

9:30am-11:30am, 6:00pm-8:00pm

Additional shows Fri & Sat: 7:00pm, 9:00pm

The Strolling Piano Strolling Act

1:00pm, 2:30pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm, Strolling DJ- 7:45pm

Sir Loin-The Mechanical Bull

Location: Chevron Pavilion

Sun – Thurs: 10:00am-9:00pm Fri & Sat: 10:00am-10:00pm

Tumbleweed Crossing Comedy Wild West Gunfight Stunt Show

Location: Adventure Alley

1:30pm, 4:30pm, 7:00pm

Live Shark Encounter Location: Adventure Alley

12:15pm, 3:00pm, 5:45pm

Additional shows Sat & Sun: 8:15pm

Live Stingray Encounter Location: Adventure Alley

10:00am-1:00pm, 1:30pm-4:00pm, 4:30pm-7:00pm, 7:30pm-9:00pm Fri & Sat: 7:30 pm - 10:00pm

Out at the Fair

Location: Chevron Pavilion Stage

Sunday, September 10, 2023

10:30am-6:30pm

Live Horse Racing

The Downs @ Albuquerque

Post Times

Thursday, September 7 - 6:05 PM

Friday, September 8 - 1:30 PM

Saturday, September 9 - 1:30 PM

Sunday, September 10 - 1:30 PM

Monday, September 11 - 1:30 PM

Tuesday, September 12 - 1:30 PM

Wednesday, September 13 - 1:30 PM

Thursday, September 14 - 1:30 PM

Friday, September 15 - 1:30 PM

'Yellowstone'-Style Ranch Rodeo New at Fair

By Autumn Gray

The New Mexico State Fair has taken a cue from the popularity of the hit TV series "Yellowstone" about a ranching family in Montana. Not only will the fair offer its traditional rodeo experience, but it is also featuring a special one-night Ranch Rodeo on September 12.

The term “ranch rodeo” has become part of pop culture and a common household phrase across the country since the first of five critically-acclaimed Yellowstone seasons began streaming on Peacock in 2018. For those who are still unfamiliar, a ranch rodeo features different competitions from those seen at Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) performances, which air on the Cowboy Channel and entertain crowds annually on the fairgrounds.

“Ranch Rodeo events reflect what working cowboys actually do on the ranches and ranges of this country every day,” said Chris A. Morgan, chairman and event director of the East Mountain Rodeo Association and a member of the State Fair Rodeo Committee. “Yellowstone has reintroduced America to our ranching heritage and lifestyle, so now people are curious and want to know what gets done out there.”

Here’s a sampling of what attendees can expect to see for about two hours during the State Fair:

• A version of bronc riding. Instead of using a PRCA saddle, participants sit on a saddle that they regularly use on the ranch. It’s more realistic, Morgan said, and it shows what really happens when you have a wild horse get loose and you have to actually ride it.

• Stray gathering. This event is similar to team roping and calf roping. However, instead of a team of two, a team of four works to gather two stray cows. “We call it team roping on steroids,” Morgan said.

• A mock calf-branding. Cowboys use a bucket of white flour or chalk to simulate the annual spring calf roundup and branding that occurs on ranches.

• Team sorting: Also known as ranch sorting, this requires two riders to move a herd of cattle in numerical order from one pen into a separate adjoining pen in 60 seconds or less. And the best for last…

• Wild cow milking. One person riding a horse has to rope a cow. Once accomplished, three other people then scramble on foot to remove the rope from the horns and get milk from the

cow into a beer bottle. One person grabs the tail, one gets hold of the horns, and the third guy ducks in for the milk.

“It really is as hectic as you think it sounds. She is fighting. You see guys drug across the arena and the guy on the horns get flipped off, and the other guy trying to milk while not getting kicked. It really is mass chaos,” Morgan said. Participants have two minutes to complete the task. The team to do it fastest wins.

“All they have to do is get two or three drops,” Morgan said. “We’re not looking for a full bottle.”

For all events, Morgan works with Animal Protection New Mexico to ensure humane treatment of all animals on site. A veterinarian and vet’s assistant are also present.

“The cowboys themselves take the utmost care of all the animals,” Morgan said. “Ultimately that’s how these cowboys make their living is to make sure these animals are well and treated well.”

The Ranch Rodeo is an invitational that will include 10 teams of five members each. Teams are composed of the best competitors from ranches and cattle companies in New Mexico going head-to-head with leaders from Texas, Arizona, Colorado and Oklahoma.

“It’s validation for what they do day in and day out. It’s a point of pride,” said State Fair general manager Dan Mourning. “We are still an agricultural fair, representing the best of livestock and agriculture. So, it’s important to have that represented. These are amazing athletes who are helping us to expand our rodeo by just doing what they do.”

The NM State Fair Ranch Rodeo is a Working Ranch Cowboy Association-sanctioned (WRCA) event, meaning the fair event is endorsed by the WRCA and reflects its principles and values. The East Mountain Rodeo Association is responsible for bringing the event to the State Fair.

“Our guiding principle is to educate, preserve and present the Western heritage that made not only the state of New Mexico but the Southwest,” Morgan said. “The Ranch Rodeo is history in action.”

Finalists For The 2023 Unique Foods Contest

Item: Duro Raspado

• Item Description:

Mexican shaved ice snack with mango flavored syrup topped with chicharron chips, nopalito strips with avocado sauce and tajín sprinkled with a twist of lime.

• Concessionaire Information:

o Snowie

o This is Daniel Garcia’s 1st year.

o Located: On the grounds south of Palamino Barn.

Item: Blue Corn Deep Fried Kool Aid Pickle

• Item Description:

A giant pickle that has been soaked overnight in Kool Aid then dipped in a blue corn egg batter and deep fried to golden perfection.

• Concessionaire Information:

o Native Cafe

o This is Gil Stewart’s 12th year.

o Located: In the Indian Village.

Item: Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken and a tropical punch drink mix

• Item Description:

Chicken is marinated with spices such as salt, pepper, ginger and anise then grilled. After it is done, we glaze with homemade teriyaki sauce to enhance the flavor. We serve it with teriyaki rice or noodles. We also have a tropical punch drink mix with pineapple juice, orange juice, water, cherry syrup with chunked pineapple, lime and lemon.

• Concessionaire Information:

o B & B Concessions

o This is Phuong Lam’s 1st year.

o Located: In the Food Court.

Item: Boudain Balls with cheese and alligator

• Item Description:

Deep fried, sensationally seasoned, battered alligator meat.

• Concessionaire Information:

o Sugar Mama’s Sugar Shack

o This is Randy Phan’s 3rd year.

o Located: In the Food Court.

Item: Allsick Smashburger

• Item Description:

Juicy, all-beef smash burgers with cheese, topped with local hatch green chile, two strips of thick bacon, topped with flaming hot Cheetos and nacho cheese. Hamburger bun is crusted with crushed flaming hot Cheetos.

• Concessionaire Information:

o Phat Stax Burgers and More

o This is Caskey Hill’s 1st year.

o Located: On the grounds south of Palamino Barn.

Item: The Chingón Chicharron

• Item Description:

Layers of fresh, homemade guacamole and deep fried chicharron cooked until golden brown. Slices of chicharron wrapped in fresh roasted green chile served in a cup.

• Concessionaire Information:

o Quesadas New Mexico Food

o This is Mike Quesada’s 22nd year.

o Located: In the Food Court.

Item: Pickled Pizza

• Item Description:

A twist on traditional pizza. Our homemade dough is smothered with our secret white sauce, topped with dill pickles and mozzarella cheese and cooked to perfection at 525 degrees.

• Concessionaire Information:

o R & J Concessions LLC

o This is Rick Ukmar 3rd year.

o Located: In the Food Court

Item: Loaded Pickled Cheese Fry

• Item Description:

Fresh cut fries topped with cheese curds, still pickled chips, smothered with homemade dill sauce and dill seasoning.

• Concessionaire Information:

o R & J Concessions LLC

o This is Rick Ukmar 3rd year.

o Located: In Food Court.

Sysco Foods

T-Mobile

Teddy Grahams

United Rentals

United States Coast Guard Wrangler

Schedule of Events

*Schedule and rules are subject to change.

Pattern Energy Junior

Livestock Pavilion- JLP

Thursday, September 7

Wool Show Fleece Arrival

Begins - 9:00 AM

Wool Show Fleece In Place5:00 PM

Friday, September 8

Jr.Rabbit/Cavy Show Arrival

Begins - 8:00 AM

Wool Show - JLP - 9:00 AM

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from 9:30 AM– 5:30 PM

Milking Demonstrations, JLP - 10:00 AM

Jr.Rabbit/Cavy Show In Place - 7:00 PM

Saturday, September 9

Jr. Rabbit/Cavy ShowRabbit/Poultry Building8:00 AM

Open Angus, AOB & Hereford Cattle Arrival

Begins - 8:00 AM

Agriculture Public Speaking Contest - 8:00 AM

Agriculture Science Fair8:00 AM

Jr. Poultry Show - Rabbit/ Poultry Building - 9:00 AM

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from - 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Milking Demonstrations, JLP - 10:00 AM

Jr. Market Goats/Wether

Does In place - JLP - 12:00 PM

Jr. Market Goats/Wether

Does - Weights due online1:00 PM

Wool Lead Show - JLP4:00 PM

Market Swine MUST be in place - 5:00 PM

Market Swine - Weight Due online - 5:00 PM

Jr. Market Beef/Market Heifers/Jr. Breeding HeifersIn place - 7:00 PM

Sunday, September 10

NM Bred Swine ShowSwine Barn - 8:00 AM

**MKT Hog Showmanship, 30 minutes after conclusion of the Swine Show.

Open Angus, AOB & Hereford Cattle Arrival/ Check In Begins - 8:00 AM

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Wether Doe Show - JLP-

9:30 AM

Milking DemonstrationsJLP - 10:00 AM

Jr. Market Goat Show - JLP

11:00 AM

Jr. Market Sheep & Jr. Commercial Ewes In placeJLP - 12:00 PM

Jackpot Steer, Breeding

Heifer & NM Bred Steer

Show Check-in & Weights due - 2:00 PM

Classify Jr. Market LambsJLP - 4:00 PM

Open Angus, AOB & Hereford Cattle Arrival/ Check In Ends - 4:00 PM

NMSF Jackpot Steer, Breeding Heifer & NM Bred

Steer Show - 5:00 PM

Jr. Market Lamb & Jr. Commercial Ewes - Weights Due Online - 6:00 PM

Monday, September 11

Jr. Market Hog Classification & Show - Swine Barn - 8:00 AM

Classify/Check in Jr. Market

Beef/Market Heifers - JLP -

9:00 AM

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Brangus Move-In Beef Barn10:00 AM

Milking DemonstrationsJLP - 10:00 AM

Jr. Market Beef/Market

Heifer Weights Due Online11:00 AM

Open Angus Cattle Show –Beef Barn - 1:00 PM

Open AOB Cattle ShowBeef Barn - 2:00 PM

Open Hereford Cattle Show

– Beef Barn - 3:00 PM

Breeding Heifer - Check In Due Online - 4:00 PM

AOB/Commercial HeiferWeights Due Online - 5:00 PM

Replacement Dairy must be in place -Check In: ONLY between 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tuesday, September 12

Open Rabbit Arrival Begins8:00 AM

Jr. Commercial Ewe ShowJLP - 9:00 AM

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from 9:30 AM– 5:30 PM

Jr. Market Lamb Show - JLP10:00 AM

Milking DemonstrationsJLP - 10:00 AM

Jr. Replacement Dairy Heifer Show - Beef Barn - 1:00 PM

Brangus Cattle In Place3:00 PM

Calf Scramble Meeting - TBD - 3:00 PM

Open Rabbits must be In Place - 7:00 PM

Wednesday, September 13

Open Rabbit Show - Rabbit/ Poultry Building - 8:00 AM

Jr. Market Steer/Market Heifer Show - JLP - 9:00 AM

Open/Jr. Dairy Cattle Show –Beef Barn - 10:00 AM

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Milking DemonstrationsJLP - 10:00 AM

Jr. Breeding Heifer Show –

JLP (Following the Market Steer/Heifer show) - 2:00 PM

Calf Scramble - Tingley Coliseum - 7:00 PM

Thursday, September 14

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Brangus Jr. Breeding Heifer Show – Beef Barn - 10:00 AM

Milking DemonstrationsJLP - 10:00 AM

Livestock Judging Contest –JLP - 1:00 PM

Parade of ChampionsTingley Coliseum - 7:00 PM

Friday, September 15

Brangus Open Show – JLP9:00 AM

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Milking DemonstrationsJLP - 10:00 AM

Jr. Livestock Sale Registration opens - Horse Arena - 11:00 AM

Open Poultry Arrival Begins - 12:00 PM

Texas Longhorns Move inBeef Barn - 12:00 PM

Jr. Livestock Sale – Horse Arena - 1:00 PM

Open Poultry must be In Place - 7:00 PM

Texas Longhorns must be In Place - 5:00 PM

Saturday, September 16

Open Poultry Show –Rabbit/Poultry Building8:00 AM

Youth Dairy Goat Show/ Showmanship - JLP - 8:00 AM - Open Youth Dairy Goat Show, Youth Sr. Dairy Goat Show, Open Sr. Dairy Goat Show, Southwest Dairy Goat Association Club Show, all to follow

4-H Cooking Challenge –Youth Hall - 9:00 AM

Table Top Serama Chicken Show – Poultry Building9:00 AM

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Milking DemonstrationsJLP - 10:00 AM

4-H Dog Show - JLP - 10:00 AM

Texas Longhorn Open & Junior Show – Beef Barn10:00 AM

Navajo Sheep Show - JLP1:00 PM

Sunday, September 17

Sheep to Shawl - JLP - 9:30 AM

**Demonstrations take place daily from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Milking DemonstrationsJLP - 10:00 AM

Texas Longhorn Open & Junior Show (Day 2) – Beef Barn - 10:00 AM

Rooster Crowing Contest – Rabbit/Poultry Building1:00 PM

African American Pavilion

Thursday, September 7

Oscar Butler - 5:00 PM

Black Smoke Band - 6:15 PM

Raven & the Sweet Potato Band - 7:30 PM

Friday, September 8

Brenda Marley & Friends6:15 PM

Ron Crowder Band - 7:30 PM

Saturday, September 9

Los Tapatios - 11:30 AM

Ballet en Fuego - 12:45 PM

Toni Morgan & Just Us2:00 PM

Animated Jukebox - 3:15 PM

The Art of Jazz w/Tracey Whitney - 5:45 PM

LoPhat - 7:00 PM

Sunday, September 10

Gary Alison - 2:15 PM NM Jurisdiction State Choir - 3:30 PM

Diana Bethany - 4:45 PM

Metro Church of God in Christ - 6:00 PM

Monday, September 11

Calvin Appleberry & Trio6:15 PM

Raven & the Sweet Potato Band - 7:30 PM

Tuesday, September 12

Black Smoke Band - 5:00 PM

Entourage Jazz - 6:15 PM Sapphire Band - 7:30 PM

Wednesday, September 13

Chris Dracup & Friends5:00 PM

Brenda Marley & Friends6:15 PM

Thursday, September 14

Gershon Brothers - 6:15 PM

Calvin Appleberry & Trio7:30 PM

Friday, September 15

Chris Dracup & Friends5:00 PM

Ron Crowder Band - 6:15 PM

Youth Jazz Collaborative7:30 PM

Kapaya Lukusa - 8:45 PM

Saturday, September 16

Gershon Brothers - 11:00 AM Sapphire Band - 12:15 PM

The Art of Jazz w/ Tracey

Whitney - 4:00 PM

Legacy Band of Colorado7:45 PM

Sunday, September 17

Gary Alison - 1:00 PM

Sons of Shiloh - 2:15 PM

Kingdom Remix Youth Choir - 3:30 PM

Diana Bethany - 4:45 PM

Shiloh Inspirational Choir6:00 PM

NM Mass Choir - 7:15 PM

Villa Hispana

Thursday, September 7

Good Tymes Band - 12:00 PM

Paul Pino and the Tone

Daddies - 1:45 PM

GiIbert Lechuga n the Shysters - 3:00 PM

The Mixx - 4:15 PM

Tequila Rain - 5:45 PM

Rose Elva & the Crew7:30 PM

Friday, September 8

Los Blue Healers - 12:00 PM

De Luz - 1:15 PM

Chile Bean Express - 3:00 PM

Michael Rascon - 4:15 PM

Ballet Folklorico del Valle5:30 PM

Peter Vigil - 6:45 PM

Severo y Grupo Fuego8:30 PM

Saturday, September 9

UZ Band - 11:00 AM

Siempre Band - 12:15 PM

Dance Group-Floor - 1:45 PM

Karizzma - 2:45 PM

Antonio Reyna con Mariachi

Xochitl - 4:00 PM

Dave Maestas Band - 5:15 PM

Str8 Shot - 6:30 PM

Sangre Joven - 8:30 PM

Sunday, September 10

Dickie Cordova y La Pleve11:00 AM

Ballet Folklorico del Valle12:45 PM

Gonzalo - 2:00 PM

Miguel Timoteo - 3:45 PM

Black Pearl Band NM -

5:00 PM

Gilbert y Esmerelda - 6:15 PM

Divino - 7:30 PM

Monday, September 11

Mariachi Tenampa - 12:00 PM

Good Tymes Band - 1:15 PM

Las Bailarinas de Oro -

2:30 PM

Chile Bean Express - 3:45 PM

Tripple-x Band - 5:00 PM

Luna Upfront - 6:15 PM

Paul Pino and the Tone

Daddies - 7:30 PM

Tuesday, September 12

Gilbert Uribe - 12:00 PM

De Luz - 1:30 PM

Mariachi Tenampa - 3:15 PM

Los Tapatios - 6:30 PM

Gonzalo - 7:30 PM

Wednesday, September 13

Gilbert Uribe - 12:00 PM

Mariachi Tenampa - 3:15 PM

Ballet Folklorico del Valle5:00 PM

Michael Rascon - 6:15 PM

Str8 Shot - 7:30 PM

Thursday, September 14

Gathering of the Counties10:00 AM

Una Mas y La ChaCha -

12:45 PM

Luna Upfront - 2:00 PM

Chile Bean Express - 3:15 PM

Gilbert Lechuga & the Shuterzz - 4:30 PM

Legacy Band of Santa Fe5:45 PM

The Mixx - 7:30 PM

Friday, September 15

Los Blue Healers - 12:30 PM

Grupo VIve - 2:00 PM

Luisa Gaytan Ft. Sangre

Joven - 3:45 PM

Rose Elva & the Crew5:00 PM

Sangre Joven - 6:30 PM

Candace Vargas & NortherN

505 - 8:30 PM

Saturday, September 16

NMHHC Speaker - 10:00 AM

Aztec Dancers/ Blessing10:30 AM

Veteran - 11:15 AM

REVOZO ft. Vicente Griego - 12:00 PM

Mariachi Tenampa - 1:15 PM Open - 2:30 PM

LatinoAmericana Show3:45 PM

Angelica Padilla - 5:30 PM

Darren Cordova y Calor6:30 PM

El Grito w/ Mexican Consulate - 8:00 PM

Grupo Control - 8:30 PM

Sunday, September 17

Legacy Band of Santa Fe11:30 AM

Tequila Rain - 12:45 PM

Angelica Padilla - 2:00 PM

Grupo Vine - 3:15 PM

Peter Vigil - 5:00 PM

Micky Cruz - 6:45 PM

Nosotros - 8:00 PM

Indian Village

Screen Printing by SABA –12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Daily

Thursday, September 7

Cellicion Traditional Zuni

Dancers – 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM

J.J. Otero – 2:00 PM

Ryedale Largo and the Dine

Dancers – 3:00 PM & 6:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 8:00 PM

Friday, September 8

Cellicion Traditional Zuni

Dancers – 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

The Majestic – 2:00 PM

Ryedale Largo and the Dine

Dancers – 3:00 PM & 6:00 PM

Aztec Dancers – 7:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 8:00 PM

Midnight Ryders – 9:00 PM

Saturday, September 9

Cellicion Traditional Zuni

Dancers – 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

Ryedale Largo and the Dine

Dancers – 2:00 PM

Bear Necklace dancers –3:00 PM

Sunburnt Stone – 4:00 PM

Steele Mand Band - 6:00 PM

Aztec Dancers – 7:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 8:00 PM

Rude Boys – 9:00 PM

Sunday, September 10

Ryedale Largo & the Dine

Dancers – 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

Bear Necklace Dancers –2:00 PM & 4:00 PM

Cellicion Traditional Zuni

Dancers – 3:00 PM & 6:00 PM

Aztec Dancers – 7:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 8:00 PM

Monday, September 11

Seasonal Dancers – 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

Ailani – 2:00 PM

(continued on Page 26)

Thursday, September 7

New Mexico Special Needs Orchestra

10:00 AM

Unique Food Contest

12:15 PM

Brian Marshall Duo

1:45 PM

Rattlesnake

3:00 PM

Bring the Chelas

4:30 PM

Stratus Phear

6:00 PM

Turquoise Blues Band

8:00 PM

Friday, September 8

Hard Road Trio 3:00 PM

Alter Apex 5:00 PM Str8 Shot 6:30 PM

The Mango Cakes

8:00 PM & 10:00 PM

Black Heart Saints

10:00 PM - 11:30 PM

Saturday, September 9

The Curio Cowboys

10:00 AM

The Desparados

11:30 AM

Sarah Rowe

1:00 PM

Sam Barlow & His True Blue Band

3:00 PM

Indian Village

(continued from Page 25)

Stanlie Kee and Step In –

4:00 PM

Aztec Dancers – 7:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 8:00 PM

Tuesday, September 12

Seasonal Dancers – 3:00 PM & 6:00 PM

10 Years Gone – 5:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 7:00 PM

Blynsyde – 8:00 PM

Wednesday, September 13

Navajo Song and Dance –

PM & 4:00 PM

Nathaniel Krantz

5:00 PM

Slums of Harvard

7:00 PM

Sunday, September 10 OUT AT THE FAIR

10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

New Mexico State Fair

Idol Competition 7:00 PM

Monday, September 11

Jude-House Rock: Tribute to Elvis

PM

Flambeaux 1:00 PM

Die Polka Schlingel

3:00 PM

Call Me Ozz Dot Net Karaoke 7:00 PM

Tuesday, September 12

Military Appreciation Event 10:00 AM

Grant and Randy Two Man Band 1:30 PM

5 Deep

PM

One More Silver Dollar

5:00 PM Call Me Ozz Dot Net

*Schedule and rules are subject to change.

Talibah Begay – 2:00 PM Midnight Ryders – 3:00 PM Navajo Song and Dance –

Jir Project – 5:00 PM Sunburnt Stone - 6:00 PM Aztec Dancers – 7:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 8:00 PM

Thursday, September 14

The Majestic – 1:00 PM Navajo Song and Dance –

PM & 5:00 PM

Talibah Begay – 3:00 PM Steele Mand Band – 4:00 PM

Jir Project – 6:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 7:00 PM

Stanlie Kee and Step In –8:00 PM

Friday, September 15

Talibah Begay – 1:00 PM

Navajo Song and Dance –2:00 PM & 5:00 PM

Apache Crown Dancers –3:00 PM & 6:00 PM

Ailani – 4:00 PM

Aztec Dancers – 7:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 8:00 PM

Pearl Band NM 5:00 PM Burque Jazz Bandits 7:15 PM EQNX Jazz Quintet

Saturday, Sept. 16 NM State Fair Pow Wow –11:00 AM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 7:00 PM

Apache Crown Dancers –8:00 PM

Sunday, Sept. 17

Seasonal Dancers – 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

Bear Necklace Dancers –2:00 PM & 4:00 PM

10 Years Gone – 3:00 PM

Aztec Dancers – 7:00 PM

Totonac Pole Flyers – 8:00 PM

Lights. Camera. Action!

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Home & Creative Arts Events

Creative Arts Events

New Displays:

Christmas Tree Decorating and Tablescaping

September 7-17 Calligraphy 10:00 AM Daily

September 7-17

Leathercraft 10:00 AM Daily

September 7-17

Woodcarvers 10:00 AM Daily

September 7-17 Rubberstamping 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Flower Shows

September 6

First Standard Flower Show 1:00 PM

September 8

Second Standard Flower Show

PM

September 9

Youth Standard Flower Show

PM

September 11

Third Standard Flower Show 1:00 PM

September 14

Fourth Standard Flower Show

PM

September 16

Second Youth Standard Flower Show

PM

Home Arts Events

September 8 Candy Contest 1:30 PM - Judging

September 10 Opening Day

Sewing Style Show 2:00 PM - Judging

September 11 Cookie Contest 1:30 PM - Judging

September 12 Chile Contest 1:30 PM - Judging

September 13 Cake Contest 1:30 PM - Judging

September 14 International Cuisine Contest 1:30 PM - Judging

September 15 Bread Contest 1:30 PM - Judging

September 16 Junior Baking Contest 1:30 PM - Judging

September 17 Pie Contest 1:30 PM - Judging

New Mexico State Fair 2023 Map