The San Miguel Basin Fair kicked off on Sunday, July 7, with the 4-H shooting sports competition at the 10 Ring Gun Club in Nucla. The annual event is more than a fair — it’s a celebration of community pride, youthful determination and rural spirit. From the first rifle crack to the final auctioneer's call, the community can expect a packed schedule of excitement and camaraderie.
New Fair Board President Makayla Gordon brings a wealth of experience and deep connection to the fair. Also executive director of the West End Economic Development Corporation and a member of the Friends of Norwood Schools Bond Committee, she’s long been involved in the community. A former fair participant herself, Gordon has steadily increased her involvement, joining the Fair Board in 2022.
Inspired by longtime leader Regan Snyder, who recently stepped down, Gordon aims to expand events and enhance programs for youth, emphasizing the fair's importance to the community.
"The fair drives people to the area and highlights our heritage and traditions," Gordon said. "It teaches the importance of agriculture to both youth and the community."
Gordon is grateful for the community's support, noting the months of effort youth put into their projects.
"It's an honor to help create an event that showcases their hard work," she added.
The fair is a lifeline for the San Miguel Basin’s West End, weaving together generations through shared traditions. It fosters resilience, responsibility and lifelong friendships in young competitors. Throughout the week, various events will keep the community engaged and entertained. Highlights include
● Friday, July 12: General project interviews, followed by an open gymkhana at 6 p.m. in the outdoor arena at the San Miguel Basin Fairgrounds.
● Saturday, July 13: The youth horse show at 10 a.m. at the Fairgrounds Events Center, plus the Dessert Contest registration from 2-5 p.m. at Norwood School, and public dessert tasting at 6 p.m., also at Norwood School.
● Wednesday, July 17: CSU Carcass Meat Quality Presentation at 10:30 a.m., 4-H Council capture the flag and water balloon fight at 1 p.m., Open Fair entries from 3-7 p.m., and Pig Showmanship and the Market Pig Show at 7 p.m., all at the Fairgrounds Event Center.
● Thursday, July 18: Small Animal Show at 10 a.m., Small Animal Round Robin to follow the show, Catch-A-Chicken at 12 p.m., 4-H Council Corn Hole Tournament at 2 p.m., Pee Wee Bucket Lamb Show at 6:30 p.m., and Lamb Showmanship and Market Lamb Show at 7 p.m., all at the Fairgrounds Event Center.
● Friday, July 19: Goat Showmanship and Market Goat Show at 9 a.m., Open Fair open to the public from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the San Miguel County Sheriff’s Annex, 4-H Council scavenger hunt at 1 p.m., Pee Wee Bucket Calf Show at 6:30 p.m., and Beef Showmanship and Market Beef Show at 7 p.m., all at the Fairgrounds Event Center.
● Saturday, July 20: Round Robin Showmanship at 9 a.m., Open Fair open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the San Miguel County Sheriff’s Annex, Livestock Sale Barbecue at 11:30 a.m., Catch-A-Heifer Competition at 1 p.m., Junior Livestock Sale following the competition, and Family Dance at 8 p.m., all at the Fairgrounds Event Center.
Representatives of the Fair Board and Colorado State University-Extension Office encourage all to become involved in the San Miguel Basin Fair and believe that community support is key to the fair's success. Volunteers are always needed to keep things running smoothly.
"As a youth participant, I loved learning from our community and stakeholders,” Gordon said. “I hope to see this continue long into the future."
The public is invited to support local 4-Hers beyond applause. They are welcome to buy livestock at the Junior Livestock Sale, or sponsor a project with "add-ons,” (link provided at the San Miguel County Website, listed below). New this year will be the auction of general project items alongside livestock, like a handcrafted wooden gun rack and handmade leather goods.
All are invited to visit the 4-H Council concession stand for coffee provided by Walk-In Coffee in Naturita, smoked meats from the Weimer family, and herb-infused lemonades from Juan Yardley, of Naturita. Proceeds benefit 4-H programs, ensuring the success of local youth.
The San Miguel Basin Fair is a cherished tradition. All are invited to join in this community event filled with cheers, handshakes and hugs.
For more information, full event schedules and participant registration, the public may visit sanmiguelcountyco.gov/491/San-Miguel-Basin-Fair-and-Rodeo, or contact the CSU-Extension Office at 970-327-4393.
