State Fair opens with new changes

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - The 2010 kicked off with a bang on Friday morning with a ribbon cutting and fireworks.

State Fair officials are trying to pack in as much fun in 14 days and saving as much money as possible. Cutting back on days gave Fair officials a chance to bring in bigger name artists to entertain after the rodeo.

"We were able to spend a little more money on the entertainment," said Michael Henningsen from the New Mexico State Fair. "Tingley entertainers for instance because of the other cuts that we made."

Still in spite of cuts, State Fair officials boast of new food vendors in the food court areas and in Villa Hispana. For the first time, attendees will be treated to a fireworks show on Friday nights and new dance exhibits in the African American pavilion and the Villa Hispana are expected to wow audiences.

Safety is still top on the list of must haves for State Fair officials with a number of State Police officers patrolling the grounds.