So much of what there is to love about the state converges onto the famous fairgrounds in Pueblo for an end-of-summer week full of live entertainment, thrilling competitions, quirky vendor booths and good ol’ Western fun.
It’s the one time of year when gorging on fried food is practically a sport and Foam Fest is just a cover name for taste-testing Colorado’s craft beers. Rodeo fans and newbies alike can’t miss the best of the best as the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association rolls through Pueblo. Buckin’ broncos, raging bulls and barrel-racing cowgirls kick up dust under stadium lights at the rowdy Budweiser Rodeo Arena.
Concerts at the fair have featured Chris Janson, Foreigner, Huey Lewis & The News and more.
Serving fare such as Pueblo green chiles, funnel cakes, deep-fried Snickers and other savory treats, it’s imperative that you bring your appetite. Pueblo is famous for its green chili and takes its secret local recipe seriously. Bring lots of water to cool down after you taste the Green Chili Championship entries at the Creative Arts Kitchen. Other competitions at the kitchen include homebrew beers, extravagant cupcakes and spicy salsa.
Additional favorite fair festivities include a daytime and late-night carnival; livestock shows and petting zoos; art displays; monster truck rallies and live concerts throughout the entire weekend. Find the full schedule of events and attractions on the Colorado State Fair’s website.
Where: It's said that Lt. Zebulon Pike erected the earliest permanent building in Colorado in Pueblo while he explored this part of the West. Rooted in intriguing and colorful heritage, learn more about Pueblo and the fair’s long history at the State Fair Museum located at the fairgrounds.
Fairgrounds: 1001 Beulah Ave. Pueblo, CO 81004
When: Aug. 23–Sept. 2, 2024
Lodging: Browse Pueblo's Lodging and Hotel accommodation listings to reserve your lodging before Pueblo is booked up for this popular event.