By Kevin Hendricks, The Paper.
Rio Rancho families can trade backyard boredom for pony rides, a mechanical bull and a rock wall when Sunday is Funday celebrates its 21st year Aug. 16 at Haynes Park.
The Rio Rancho Kiwanis Club runs the noon-to-4 p.m. picnic, which grew out of a 2006 push by the late Tony Popper — “Mr. Rio Rancho” — and current club President Dave Heil to build an affordable alternative to the city’s pricey Mayor’s Ball. That first year drew 600 to 800 people at the Rio Rancho Sports Complex; last year’s event pulled in more than 6,400 neighbors.
More than 150 vendor booths lined the park in 2025, and organizers have a similar lineup this year alongside swimming, fun jumps, dancing and a kickball competition. Admission runs $2, with kids 12 and under free. Proceeds cover event costs first, then benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Central New Mexico, Boy Scout Troop 714, the Rio Rancho High School Key Club, St. Felix Food Pantry and Storehouse West Inc.
Parking fills up at Intel, UNM and First Baptist Church near Grande and 19th Ave, with free shuttles running to the park entrance. The RRHS Band opens the entertainment lineup at noon with the National Anthem and a welcome from Mayor Paul Wymer, followed by performances from No Limitz Band, NM Elite, Sparrow Dance and others through the afternoon. Organizers will crown a Cinderella Pageant winner and announce this year’s Tony Popper Memorial Trophy recipient before the 4 p.m. close.
Sunday is Funday — 21st Annual
- When: Sunday, Aug. 16, noon–4 p.m.
- Where: Haynes Park
- Cost: $2 admission; 12 and under free
- Parking/Shuttle: Free shuttles from Intel; buses also run from Boys and Girls Club
- Contact: Dave Heil, [email protected] or (505) 228-7189; Tracy Nelson, (937) 241-5564
- Online: RioRanchoKiwanis.com