SantaFeToday.com Santa Fe’s Hometown News
2026 New Mexico Outdoor Adventures Show Opens Feb. 13
Feb. 13–15, 2026 • Manuel Lujan Building • Expo New Mexico, Albuquerque
Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages are invited to attend the 2026 New Mexico Outdoor Adventures Show, hosted by the New Mexico Department of Wildlife, February 13 through 15 at Expo New Mexico in Albuquerque. The three-day event brings together hands-on activities, educational presentations, outdoor vendors and family-friendly experiences designed to celebrate New Mexico’s rich outdoor heritage.
Family-Friendly Activities and Wildlife Education
The show offers a wide range of interactive opportunities for children and adults alike. Kids can explore hands-on nature exhibits, participate in a wildlife scavenger hunt and try beginner-friendly archery. An interactive off-highway vehicle (OHV) activity will also be available, along with wildlife education sessions led by Department conservation officers who are eager to share their knowledge and experience.
Vendors, Gear and Live Demonstrations
Attendees can browse vendor booths featuring outdoor gear, kayaks, archery equipment, boats, off-highway vehicles and more. The event is designed to help visitors learn new skills, discover local wildlife and gain inspiration from live presentations and interactive learning stations. Whether you are an experienced outdoorsman or just beginning your journey, the Outdoor Adventures Show offers something for everyone.
Event Details and Admission
Sponsored by Ram Motors RV & Truck Center, Hit or Miss Archery, Hanseatic Management Services, Inc. and Waypoint Vehicle Upfitters, the show will take place inside the Manuel Lujan Building at Expo New Mexico.
Admission is $5 for adults. Youth ages 17 and younger receive free entry, as do individuals holding a valid New Mexico hunting and fishing license.
Show hours are:
- Friday: Noon to 6 p.m.
- Saturday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Educational Presentations
Throughout Saturday and Sunday, two stages will host a variety of presentations. Topics include shed hunting with dogs, wildlife photography, hiking tips, fishing techniques, safe firearms handling and how to become an officer with the Department of Wildlife. These sessions provide valuable insights for both beginners and seasoned outdoor participants.
Calling Contests Return
One of the most popular features of the Outdoor Adventures Show is the calling contests, which are open to participants of all ages and skill levels.
The contests begin Saturday at noon with the duck-calling contest, sponsored by Ducks Unlimited. At 2 p.m. Saturday, the New Mexico Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will sponsor the turkey-calling contest. Sunday at 2 p.m., the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation will sponsor the elk-calling contest.
Winners in each class will receive custom-made trophy buckles crafted by Thoreau-based Maynard Buckles.
Those interested in registering for the calling contests can contact Larry Garcia at 505-500-2262, Robin Quintana at 505-490-2649 or DeAnza Gallegos at 505-531-7272.
Archery Events and State Championship
Attendees looking to sharpen their aim can visit the archery range sponsored by The Archery Shoppe, as well as a pellet-shooting range sponsored by Bernalillo 4-H. These ranges are open to participants of varying skill levels, from beginners to experienced shooters.
Across the street in the Creative Arts Building, the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) will host its 2026 State 3-D Championship, also sponsored by The Archery Shoppe. The tournament will run Friday through Sunday and feature more than 500 student archers from over 40 schools across the state.
Students in grades 4 through 12 will compete for custom championship buckles awarded to the top male and female finishers in the elementary, middle school and high school divisions.
With interactive exhibits, competitive events and educational sessions, the 2026 New Mexico Outdoor Adventures Show offers a weekend dedicated to celebrating the outdoors and connecting New Mexicans to the natural world.
