The County Fair is an established tradition all over the United States. Some have big-time talent, some rodeo, some have wild animals. Some Fairs feature celebrities and dignitaries, reenactments and historic celebrations, but all represent the creativity, entertainment and the local flair that make a community great.
The 75th Archuleta County Fair was no exception.The Fair board worked hard to make this year especially historic. Some attendees I spoke to, reminisced of the good times decades earlier…
…when the chuckwagon was held at the Elementary School and The Rodeo Arena was the center of the Livestock Show…
…hen opening day had so much rain the wood chips were floating away…
… whne families worked the land with dedication and gratitude.
Fond memories of simpler times. “A Timeless Tradition “ continues.
2026 had so much to offer. Teams of volunteers helped put on an entertaining annual event for all. The weather had its say, no rain and hot, but the sunrises and sunsets were fantastic.
‘Step Back In Time’ presentations were presented in the recently developed Old West Town. Very skilled BMX Cyclists were spectacular. Rodeos… Tough Enough To Wear Pink (Benefiting Pagosa Springs Medical Center), The Ranch Rodeo and The Kids Rodeo all had plenty of action and packed seats.
There were several educational tents, the big blow up jump house, carnival games and the pie eating contest kept the children happy. Food trucks made kept everyone satisfied. The 4H auction packed the Hughes Pavillion as usual.
The dance bands: Tyler Brandon, San Juan Mountain Boys, Bo DePena and Tim Sullivan, all talented performers and local celebrities.
The Extension Building had many entries in all categories and displayed creativity from all ages.
All in all a fantastic Fair.
Thank You to The Fair Board and all the volunteers for their dedication and hard work…
Pagosa Springs photographer Jeff Laydon shoots people, places and products — on location and in his studio. Learn more at PagosaPhotography.com