Celebrating Tradition since 1967

The Beginning of Fiesta Day (1967)

In 1967, the Colorado State Fair welcomed a brand-new tradition that would forever shape Pueblo’s cultural identity — Fiesta Day. Organized by a dedicated group of community leaders and volunteers, Fiesta Day was created to celebrate the vibrant heritage, traditions, and contributions of the Latino community in Colorado.

That first celebration featured a Grand Charreada (Mexican Rodeo) and International Horse Show, complete with bull riding, bronco riding, trick roping, and the daring Paso de la Muerte (Step of Death). Legendary performers Antonio Aguilar and Flor Silvestre headlined the entertainment, bringing international star power to Pueblo and helping to cement Fiesta Day as a landmark event.

Community Pride & Leadership

The inaugural Fiesta Day was led by chairman Henry Reyes and a committee of Pueblo citizens who poured their time and energy into making the event possible. Leaders such as Ernesto Barrios, John Rosales, Hermelinda Vigil, Ramon Valencia, Amos Rivera, Paco Sanchez, and Lillie Arriaga served as committee chairs, each guiding different areas of the program — from parade coordination to costumes.

On that first year, Rose Mary Ayala was crowned as the first Fiesta Day Queen, with Ernestine Salas and Rosie Cortez serving as part of the royal court. This marked the beginning of a tradition of scholarship and recognition that continues to uplift young women in Colorado to this day.

Music, Dance, and Tradition 

Alongside the rodeo arena, the Fiesta Day Band Shell came alive with a full schedule of music and cultural performances. Local groups like The Dukes, Swing Masters, Los Aztecas, and The Continentals shared the stage with folk dancers, accordionists, and community entertainers. These performances reflected the heartbeat of Colorado — blending Mexican traditions with American styles and showcasing local talent for thousands of fairgoers.

Cultural Heritage in the Spotlight

The 1967 program also highlighted the importance of the Mexican Charro — a horseman, sportsman, and cultural symbol whose traditions of skill, music, and horsemanship remain at the core of Fiesta Day. Through bilingual articles, photographs, and educational features, the first Fiesta Day program emphasized pride in Mexican roots while sharing traditions with the wider Colorado community.

Even elected leaders took notice: local officials, state representatives, and congressmen published messages of congratulations, recognizing the event as a milestone in both Pueblo’s and Colorado’s cultural history.

A Tradition That Endures

What began in 1967 as a single day of charreada, music, dance, and community pride has grown into one of the Colorado State Fair’s most cherished traditions. For nearly six decades, Fiesta Day has continued to honor Latino culture, support scholarships for young leaders, and bring people together in celebration.

The Colorado State Fair Fiesta Committee, a nonprofit made up entirely of community volunteers, proudly carries forward this legacy. With every scholarship awarded, every parade float, and every dance, we honor the vision of those who came before us — and ensure that Fiesta Day remains ALIVE!