Monster truck tour revs back into Rio Rancho with family shows

The Toughest Monster Truck Tour rolled into the Rio Rancho Events Center Jan. 16–17, bringing a high-energy mix of wheelie and best-trick rounds, head-to-head racing and freestyle finales that filled the arena with roar and dust. The two-night run featured the tour champion Dirt Crew driven by Jerry Beck alongside Blockhead driven by Daron Basl, Dozer driven by David Olfert, Maximus driven by Jared Smith, and dinosaur-themed trucks Jurassic Attack and Velociraptor.

Organizers staged a Friday evening performance and a Saturday matinee timed for families, and offered pit parties before shows that allowed fans closer access to the trucks and drivers. The format combined competitive heats with a freestyle close, a structure designed to keep younger spectators engaged while offering the stunts and wheel-to-wheel action longtime fans expect. Tickets and pit pass pricing were available through the event channels.

For Sandoval County residents the weekend was both entertainment and local economic stimulus. Weekend shows like this typically bring families to downtown Rio Rancho and support hotels, restaurants and retail near the Events Center. The pit-party model in particular encourages spending on concessions and merchandise while creating photo and memory-making moments for kids and teens who follow monster truck culture.

Public health and safety considerations accompanied the spectacle. Large indoor motor events generate high noise levels; hearing protection is an easy, effective way families can reduce risk during close-up pit access and in-arena seats. Crowded entry points and concession lines highlight the need for clear crowd flow, hydration stations and accessible services for older adults and people with mobility disabilities. Events that aim to be family friendly benefit from transparent information about accessibility accommodations and medical staffing so attendees can plan ahead.

There are equity dimensions to consider as well. Ticket and pit pass costs can create barriers for lower-income families in Sandoval County who wish to attend. Community-oriented partnerships, such as discounted family packages or school outreach, could expand access and make sure local youth who are passionate about motorsports can participate without undue financial strain.

As the roar of the rigs fades, the weekend’s impact will be measured in more than noise. For many, it was a shared family outing that boosted nearby businesses and kept a popular motorsport tradition alive in Rio Rancho. Residents planning to attend future shows should check event schedules and ticket options, bring hearing protection, and review accessibility information to ensure a safe and inclusive experience.