New Mexico State Fair Unveils Exciting Attractions and Culinary Innovations
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The New Mexico State Fair, a storied annual tradition that brings together families, friends, and visitors from around the region, is set to launch its festivities at EXPO New Mexico this Thursday, September 4. As anticipation builds, fair officials have revealed a range of exhilarating new attractions and culinary experiences that promise to enthrall attendees of all ages.
Dan Morning, the general manager of the fair, expressed his enthusiasm, noting that the fair continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. “You don’t get fair food anywhere else but the New Mexico State Fair.” Morning highlights a culinary landscape that adds a regional twist to traditional favorites, emphasizing unique offerings that include the innovative use of local ingredients, particularly the beloved green chili.
Among the notable new additions to the food lineup are decadent items such as bologna infused with fresh green chili, a dish that embodies the flavors of New Mexico. New attendees can also indulge in a decadent dessert featuring Dubai chocolate—a rich cream drizzled over funnel cakes—that aims to appeal to the more adventurous sweet tooth. These gastronomic innovations reflect a growing trend within the state fair scene that prioritizes quality and locality, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of New Mexican heritage.
In addition to a diverse and tantalizing culinary experience, the fair is set to unveil two state-of-the-art amusement rides, adding a thrill factor that promises to elevate the fair experience. The first of these rides, named “Lightning,” is a million-dollar attraction imported from Italy. Standing at an impressive height of 130 feet, it offers a whirlwind journey, spinning and whipping riders through the air with unparalleled excitement. Notably, Lightning has made its debut at only one other state fair in the United States, making its appearance in Albuquerque a rare spectacle.
The second new installation, known as “The Joker,” hails from the Czech Republic. Designed with capacity in mind, this ride accommodates up to 32 participants at a time, creating an opportunity to minimize wait times and enhance the overall guest experience. Richard Reithoffer, general manager of Reithoffer Shows, elaborated on the complexities of this unique ride. “The Joker features 16 cars that hold two people each. It incorporates multiple rotations, and each car spins independently while the floor itself also moves, creating a thrilling multi-dimensional experience.”
Safety is paramount at the New Mexico State Fair, and Reithoffer underscored the rigorous protocols in place. “We have ten in-house inspectors trained like state inspectors. Additionally, every day before we open to the public, our ride operators conduct thorough ride-specific inspection sheets to ensure that all machinery is in optimal condition.” This multi-layered approach to safety ensures that families can enjoy rides with peace of mind.
For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the fair will also feature its second annual speakeasy, a nod to the Roaring Twenties that offers a whimsical escape from the hustle and bustle. Designed with a “Gatsby” and turn-of-the-century theme, this speakeasy will provide live music, immersive games, and a full bar featuring both cocktails and mocktails. Notably, the establishment will forego the traditional password requirement this year, making it accessible to all fairgoers seeking to unwind in style.
As the fair gears up to welcome thousands of visitors, its blend of thrilling rides, culinary adventures, and unique entertainment options reflects a commitment to fostering community spirit. The New Mexico State Fair not only showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage but also serves to strengthen ties among local businesses, artisans, and families.
The fair runs from September 4 to September 14, 2025, inviting attendees to create memories that will last a lifetime. With meticulous planning and an invigorating lineup of attractions and fare, this year’s event promises to be, once again, an unforgettable celebration of New Mexico’s vibrant culture and traditions.
Tags: #NewMexico, #EventsNews, #LifestyleNews