A timeless tradition:Archuleta County Fair melds the past and present with a lot of fun

A timeless tradition, the 73rd annual Archuleta County Fair will take place Aug. 1-4. It’s always a party, so dust off those boots, break out your western wear and get ready to have a great time.

Fair days are full of fun in the sun, with rodeos, entertainers, games, exhibits and demonstrations. 

County fairs are ubiquitous, and for good reason. 

The fair here in Archuleta County is a timeless tradition not only for the reasons most love a good county fair and its funnel cakes, animals and more, but also because it pays homage to parts of Archuleta County’s past, present and future. It also shows respect for the hard work of citizens of all ages who participate in open class and 4-H competitions, and throws in a lot of fun. 

The gates open at 9 a.m. daily, closing around midnight on Friday and Saturday to ensure that you have the time to enjoy the festivities. The fair closes at 2 p.m. on Sunday for all exhibits.

4-H members will show their animals including horses, dogs, goats, sheep, steers, chickens, pigs, turkeys, lambs and more during many livestock shows.

The rodeo on Friday night is our action-packed Bulls, Bares and Broncs and our second Tough Enough to Wear Pink Rodeo where we partner with Pagosa Springs Medical Center to bring attention to all forms of cancer and blood disorders. The mid-day rodeo on Saturday and other entertainers will keep fairgoers busy. After working up an appetite, head to the 4-H Chuckwagon Dinner and then to the livestock area in the Hughes Pavilion. 

The junior livestock sale is the culmination of the hard work of 4-H members. The sale exhibits the long-standing livestock traditions and ranching roots of Archuleta County and supports 4-H youngsters who have dedicated themselves to their projects throughout the year. 4-H members display and have their work judged at the county fair and may even get the opportunity to go to the Colorado State Fair. After a full day, two-step on over to hear some live country western music under the Activity Tent. 

The festivities continue into Sunday with the Kids’ Rodeo and a last chance to see the 4-H animals and exhibits.

During the fair, the exhibit hall will be filled with different projects created by county residents, including quilts, photographs, paintings, vegetables, flowers and baked goods. Vendors will also sell food and various crafts and merchandise.

The fair is held at the fairgrounds just south of town on U.S. 84. Everyone is invited. 

Please note that activities and schedules are subject to change. The full schedule of events will be published prior to the fair in The Pagosa Springs SUN. 

For more information, visit www.archuletacountyfair.com. Questions may be emailed to archuletacountyfair@gmail.com.