What would Sunday is Funday be without a horse, seen being led through Haynes Park by volunteers with Loving Thunder Therapeutic Riding, Inc. (Gary Herron/Observer)

 

The 17th Sunday is Funday is back for the second year after a pandemic-related hiatus in 2020, scheduled for noon to 4 Sunday afternoon.

Admission is again $1 for people over age 12, and free for anyone 12 or younger.

“It’s a lot of fun,” Rio Rancho Kiwanis Club member and event organizer Dave Heil said.

The traditional mechanical bull, New Mexico National Guard climbing wall, three fun jumps and appearances by Smokey Bear are signed on to be part of that fun. The Haynes Park pool will also be open.

Entertainment will be interspersed with music played by a disc jockey.

The Mayor’s Kickball Tournament will be held at the park’s north end. Haynes Community Center is set to be the site of a raffle.

In 2021, well over 6,400 folks strolled  through the park, enjoying one of the coolest and most exciting events of the summer.

This year’s theme is “Go Green, Rio Rancho.”

Sold-out vendor spaces will have about 130 booths for attendees to browse for information, freebies and games. Local nonprofits will have their own space with the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit Alliance.

For vehicle fans, Sunday is Funday is scheduled to include fire and police vehicles and a medical helicopter.

Restrooms will be available in the community center, and people can also use portable toilets on-site.

For a complete list of raffle prizes and vendors, visit rioranchofunday.com.

See The Observer’s web site for updates throughout the day Sunday and full coverage Monday.