Our 17th annual Rio Grande Down Syndrome Network Buddy Walk® returns on September 26. After the incredible response to last year’s evening event, we’re thrilled to return to Expo New Mexico/NM State Fairgrounds for another unforgettable Glowing Together Buddy Walk. This year, we invite you to Shine On! with us as we light up the night in celebration of our community.
Enjoy a magical evening filled with exhibitors, carnival games, entertainment, and our Lucky Few hot air balloon, along with several remote control balloons. Food vendors will be onsite for purchase, and exclusive Buddy Walk merchandise will be available for sale on our Buddy Walk webpage (order early for the best selection) and at the event. Designed to create a fun, inclusive experience for everyone, this year’s Buddy Walk is expected to welcome more than 1,500 participants to join the celebration!
We look forward to partnering once again with local businesses, community organizations, and high schools to bring people together, promote inclusion, and create lasting memories for all.
2026 Buddy Walk Event Schedule
Meet our Emcees
We could not be more excited to introduce our 2026 Buddy Walk Emcees: Fred Slow & Van Nunley
Fred Slow and Van Nunley are broadcasters, entertainers, and community advocates who have spent decades connecting with audiences across New Mexico and beyond.
Together, they host Two Men On, a sports, entertainment, and culture program known for its mix of conversation, humor, and community storytelling. Between them, they have worked in radio, television, sports broadcasting, professional wrestling, and live event production, entertaining audiences at everything from community gatherings to major sporting and entertainment events.
Fred serves as Development Director for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central New Mexico and is the founder of NWA New Mexico | Duke City Championship Wrestling. Van is one of New Mexico’s most recognizable media personalities, known for his work in sports broadcasting, live entertainment, and community engagement.
Both are passionate about bringing people together through events, conversation, and shared experiences. They are honored to serve as hosts for today’s Buddy Walk and celebrate the individuals, families, and supporters who make this community so strong.
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
