State Fair New Mexico: 2025 In-Depth Guide

From dizzying midway rides to mouth-watering green chile treats, the New Mexico State Fair returns September 4–14, 2025, filling eleven autumn-kissed days at Expo New Mexico in Albuquerque with Southwestern flair and family fun.

Whether you crave chart-topping concerts, championship rodeo action, or simply a deep-fried Twinkie, this updated guide gives you everything you need before you hit the gates.

Where the Magic Happens

From adobe pavilions to neon-lit midway thrills, Expo New Mexico turns into a 210-acre playground of pure state fair magic.

Location: Expo New Mexico, 300 San Pedro NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108—just five miles east of downtown and minutes from Old Town and Uptown Albuquerque.

The 210-acre fairgrounds feature historic adobe exhibition halls, vibrant midway, and the 11,800-seat Tingley Coliseum. You’re never far from a performance, livestock show, or art gallery. Expo New Mexico is easily accessible from major city thoroughfares, with plenty of on-site and nearby parking.

Mark Your Calendar

Plan your visit for September 4–14, when fairgrounds come alive with music, lights, and New Mexico’s signature green chile charm.

• Dates: September 4–14, 2025
• Hours:
  • Sunday–Thursday: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
  • Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
• Midway Opens: 2 p.m. on weekdays, 10 a.m. on weekends
• Opening Day Deals: Arrive early on Thursday, September 4, for discounted admission and ride specials.

Who Should Go (Spoiler: Everyone)

From first-time fairgoers to seasoned prize-winners, there’s something here for toddlers, teens, foodies, and festival fanatics alike.

The New Mexico State Fair is consistently ranked in the top 5 state fairs nationwide (for affordability, programming, and weather), and welcomes over 500,000 visitors annually. It’s a melting pot of communities and interests:

• Families: Hunt for blue-ribbon bunnies, sheep, and chickens in the livestock barns
• Teen thrill-seekers: Towering coasters and classic carnival rides
• Foodies: Indulge in fry bread, green chile cheeseburgers, and fresh-roasted New Mexico chile
• Music lovers: Dance under the desert stars at headlining concerts
• Students and learners: STEM Day and hands-on exhibits for all ages

Can’t-Miss Highlights

Concerts that rock the coliseum. Rodeos that electrify the stands. Fried food, cultural showcases, and blue-ribbon showdowns—every day delivers a new delight.

• Concert & Rodeo Nights: 2025 headliners are set to include major country, pop, and regional acts (exact performers to be confirmed; previous years have welcomed names like Brad Paisley and Becky G). The Tingley Coliseum hosts the PRCA Xtreme Bulls and high-energy pro rodeo action.
• Soundwave NM Music Festival: On Sunday, September 7, enjoy this all-local artist lineup—included with fair admission.
• Cultural Showcases:
  • Green Chile Stew Cook-Off
  • Indian Village & Powwow
  • Hispanic Arts Building
  • African American Pavilion
• STEM & Agriculture Days: Interactive science experiments, agricultural demonstrations, and animal encounters for children and families.
• Competitions: Quilt shows, baking contests, art competitions, and the beloved Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge.
• Midway & Carnival: Dozens of thrill rides, classic games, and plenty of prizes.

Park Like a Pro

Whether you roll up in a pickup or Rideshare in style, smart parking ensures less stress and more time for corn dogs and carousel rides.

• Gate 1 (Central Ave.):
  • Around $10 Monday–Thursday
  • Around $20 Friday–Sunday
• Gate 8 (Louisiana Blvd.):
  • Around $10 flat, but fills fast
• Park-and-Ride Shuttles: Offered from area malls for traffic-free convenience
• Rideshare Access: Convenient drop-off zones with a 5–10 minute walk to the gates

Insider Tips

From early bird discounts to what’s in your bag—here’s how to breeze through the gates like a seasoned fair veteran.

• Tickets: Purchase online in advance to avoid lines and secure special opening day rates.
• Accessibility: Fairgrounds are ADA accessible, with wheelchairs and scooters available for rent.
• Bag Policy: Small bags allowed; security check at entrance.
• Lodging: Book nearby hotels early, as rooms fill up quickly during fair week.
• Weather: Late summer in Albuquerque is warm by day, cool by night—dress in layers!

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