The Pahrump Fall Festival is one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the community, offering far more than just the excitement of a parade, the thrill of the rodeo, or the fun of carnival rides. Each year, the festival provides a platform for local residents to showcase their talents and creativity at the Bob Ruud Community Center, where the best of Pahrump’s artistic and culinary skills are put on display and awarded ribbons.
Inside the Bob Ruud Center, visitors can explore a vibrant array of exhibits that reflect the diverse talents of Pahrump’s residents. From stunning paintings and sculptures to intricate craft projects, beautiful photographs, and skillful writings, there’s something to capture the interest of everyone. But the exhibits don’t stop at traditional arts and crafts; they also include categories for baking, candies, pies, cakes, breads, canning, preserving, as well as horticulture entries like fresh-picked homegrown vegetables and fruits, fresh and dried flower arrangements, wreaths, houseplants, and more. Bring your largest home-grown pumpkin for the Giant Pumpkin Contest. Last year’s winner weighed 70lbs!
For those inspired by the exhibits and interested in participating, entering your own work is a breeze! Simply log onto the Pahrump Fall Festival page at pahrumpnv.gov. There, you’ll find the “Arts & Crafts and Food & Horticulture Event” PDF links, which provide all the information you need, including the schedule, rules, and entry form. The website also offers a complete list of categories and sub-sections, detailing the hundreds of possible entries for the Exhibits Fair.
This year’s festival theme is “Medieval,” adding an extra layer of excitement for participants. Entries that creatively embrace this theme have the chance to win the special “Best in Theme” award. And if your submission is particularly outstanding, you could even take home the coveted “Judges’ Choice” ribbon.
Submitting an entry is straightforward: bring your masterpiece to the Bob Ruud Center between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on the designated days—Monday, September 16 for Arts & Crafts; Tuesday, September 17 for all categories; or Wednesday, September 18 for Foods & Horticulture only. The entry fee is just $1 for adults and teens, while kids 12 and under can enter for free.
All entries will be on display to the public throughout the Festival weekend, giving participants a chance to showcase their skills to the entire community. Don’t forget to collect your entries on Sunday, September 22 between 4:15 and 5:15 p.m. at the side door of the Ruud Center, using your receipt.
The Pahrump Fall Festival is not just about celebrating the season but also about celebrating the talents and creativity of the people in our community. Whether you’re an artist, a baker, a gardener, or someone who simply appreciates creativity, the festival is a wonderful opportunity to engage with your neighbors and share in the joy of creation. So, come join the fun, enter your best work, and see if you can take home a ribbon this year!
