Expo New Mexico State Fairgrounds
Expo New Mexico is a versatile venue hosting the annual State Fair, vibrant weekend flea markets, and diverse festivals, offering entertainment and sh...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Best selection at flea market
Expo New Mexico State Fairgrounds
Best Time
Best selection at flea market

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expo New Mexico is a versatile venue hosting the annual State Fair, vibrant weekend flea markets, and diverse festivals, offering entertainment and shopping for all.
"It's fun, and you feel like you're at a fair when you go to an event there."
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Expo NM hosts diverse events! Always check the official schedule for dates & times before you go.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during the State Fair. Comfort is key!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

New Mexico State Fair
Expo New Mexico
Experience thrilling rides, live entertainment, delicious fair food, and agricultural exhibits. A quintessential New Mexico experience!

Expo New Mexico Flea Market
Expo New Mexico Fairgrounds
Discover unique treasures from local vendors, enjoy diverse food options, and soak in the lively atmosphere every weekend.

Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival
Expo New Mexico Fairgrounds
Browse handmade jewelry, art, and crafts from talented artisans. A perfect spot for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Gem and Mineral Shows
Expo New Mexico
Explore a dazzling array of gemstones, minerals, and fossils. Learn about geology and find unique specimens.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Expo New Mexico
Navigating Expo New Mexico Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Expo NM hosts diverse events! Always check the official schedule for dates & times before you go.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during the State Fair. Comfort is key!
💰 Bring Cash for Flea Market
Many vendors at the flea market prefer cash, though some may accept cards.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Especially for popular events like the State Fair or weekend flea markets, early arrival helps secure good parking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Expo NM hosts diverse events! Always check the official schedule for dates & times before you go.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during the State Fair. Comfort is key!
💰 Bring Cash for Flea Market
Many vendors at the flea market prefer cash, though some may accept cards.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Especially for popular events like the State Fair or weekend flea markets, early arrival helps secure good parking.
📱 Download Event Apps
Some events may have dedicated apps for schedules, maps, and vendor info.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Expo New Mexico for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse events, from the exciting State Fair to the bustling weekend flea market. The food options, especially during the fair, are frequently highlighted as a major draw. However, some reviews mention inflated prices and issues with ride personnel during the State Fair.
"The animal petting and pony rides are nice. The prices of everything are very inflated and have been for years like that. The worst part is the rides section by Reithoffer. Some rides need maintenance but the worst is the incompetent and rude personnel. In the first attached picture, there is the employee in blue shirt, who lets adults on the rides despite the sign, but scanned our card while stealing our 3 credits, claimed we had nothing, and did not let our child on the ride. In the 2nd picture you can see the booth called guest services with at times 6 to 10 employees including the one behind the glass, doing nothing and being useless when we asked them for help"
Monica Pena-Morla
"Toon Fusion 2025 was amazing. The voice actors were attentive to patrons "their fan base" and great information from the voice actors' speaker panels. This community of peeps is geared towards happiness, kindness, and encouragement."
Steve n Heather Gunn
"This is a great place. Every event I've been to at EXPO NM has been a great experience. It's fun, and you feel like you're at a fair when you go to an event there."
Melinda Vigil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Expo New Mexico is located in Albuquerque, NM. It's accessible by car via major roadways like I-40 and I-25. Public transportation options, including bus routes, also serve the area. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, ample parking is typically available at Expo New Mexico for most events. During large events like the State Fair, parking fees may apply, and lots can fill up quickly. Arriving early is recommended.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for reaching Expo New Mexico. Designated drop-off and pick-up zones are usually available, especially during major events.
Expo New Mexico generally strives to be accessible. Accessible parking, restrooms, and pathways are usually available. It's advisable to check specific event details or contact Expo NM directly for any particular accessibility needs.
The primary access points to Expo New Mexico are via Interstate 40 (I-40) and Interstate 25 (I-25). Depending on your starting point, you'll likely use exits that lead directly to the fairgrounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the New Mexico State Fair can typically be purchased online in advance through the official State Fair website or at the gate on the day of your visit. Keep an eye out for early bird discounts.
Yes, ticket prices for the New Mexico State Fair can vary. There are often different rates for adults, children, seniors, and sometimes multi-day passes. Check the official schedule for current pricing.
Generally, there is no admission fee or ticket required to enter the Expo New Mexico Flea Market. You can browse and shop freely, though individual vendors will have items for sale.
Refund policies vary by event. For the New Mexico State Fair, check their specific terms and conditions. For other festivals or markets, contact the organizer directly.
Operating hours differ significantly based on the event. The State Fair typically runs for several weeks with specific daily hours. The Flea Market operates on weekends. Always consult the official event calendar for precise times.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
The New Mexico State Fair is famous for its diverse and often unique fair food! Expect classics like corn dogs and funnel cakes, alongside New Mexican specialties like green chile cheeseburgers, frybread, and adventurous options like hot cheeto pickle pizza.
Absolutely! The New Mexico State Fair features a dedicated rides section with attractions for all ages, from thrilling roller coasters to gentler rides for younger children.
The Expo New Mexico Flea Market is a treasure trove of goods. You'll find everything from antiques, collectibles, and clothing to handmade crafts, local produce, and unique artisan products.
Yes, Expo New Mexico hosts many family-friendly events. The State Fair includes a petting zoo and pony rides, while various festivals often have activities suitable for children.
The atmosphere at Expo New Mexico events is generally vibrant and festive. The State Fair buzzes with excitement, while the flea market offers a more relaxed, community-oriented vibe.
📸 📸 Photography
During the State Fair, the Ferris wheel lit up at night, the carnival rides, and the agricultural exhibits offer great photo opportunities. The vibrant stalls at the flea market and unique festival setups also make for memorable shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed at most events. However, professional photography or videography may require permits. Always check the specific event's policy.
People often capture the energy of the State Fair, the diverse offerings at the flea market, and the unique items at specialized festivals like the Oddities and Curiosities NM.
Drone usage is typically restricted at large public venues like Expo New Mexico due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by event organizers.
For vibrant photos, daytime offers bright colors and clear views of exhibits. For a magical atmosphere, visit during the evening when the lights of the carnival rides create a stunning backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed family outing, the weekend flea market provides a lively atmosphere with diverse vendors and food options. It's a great place to explore together, find unique items, and enjoy local flavors. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's plenty of ground to cover!
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for deals on tickets for the State Fair, especially if purchased in advance. For food, consider sharing larger portions or seeking out vendors offering more affordable snacks. The variety of vendors at the flea market also means you can often find unique items at reasonable prices.
🛍️ Shoppers & Collectors
Beyond the flea market, various festivals like the Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival and gem and mineral shows offer specialized shopping experiences. These events are ideal for finding handmade jewelry, art, and unique collectibles.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Future of Expo New Mexico
The potential relocation and redevelopment could transform a significant portion of Albuquerque, with possibilities ranging from new housing and commercial spaces to parks and cultural centers. This forward-looking project aims to modernize the use of state-owned land and potentially create new economic opportunities for the city.
While the exact plans are still in development and subject to community input and further proposals, the conversation around the future of Expo New Mexico highlights a dynamic period of change for the venue and its surrounding area.
Exploring the Expo New Mexico Flea Market
Visitors can expect an eclectic mix of vendors offering everything from vintage clothing and antiques to handmade crafts, jewelry, and local art. Beyond shopping, the market is a culinary destination, featuring a variety of food trucks and stalls serving up delicious local fare. Live music often adds to the vibrant, bustling atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely weekend outing.
This market is a fantastic place to support local small businesses and artisans. It's a community hub where you can find everything from everyday necessities to one-of-a-kind treasures, all while enjoying the lively spirit of Albuquerque.
Culinary Delights at the New Mexico State Fair
Beyond these favorites, the fair boasts creative culinary inventions. Visitors have enjoyed adventurous options like hot cheeto pickle pizza, frozen butterscotch dipped bananas, and chocolate-dipped cheesecake. Frybread from the Navajo Cafe in Indian Village is another highly recommended treat.
From sweet to savory, the fair food experience is a significant part of the overall event, providing a delicious way to explore local tastes and indulge in festive treats.
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