Artesia has long carried the title City of Champions, a name not only earned under Friday night lights, but in the gym, on the court, and even in speech competitions. But some of our greatest championship moments happen well beyond sports; when our community shows up with sleeves rolled, arms open wide and rises to the occasion during events that put Artesia in the spotlight. Two of those moments connect directly to the automotive and aviation theme of this issue of Focus Community Magazines.

Each spring, our downtown transforms into a car enthusiast’s dream during the Main Event Car Show & Cruise hosted by Artesia Chamber of Commerce and Artesia Car Enthusiasts. What makes this event special is not just the showcase cars, it is how our community shows up to support it. Business owners extend hours, sidewalks fill with families, and automotive conversations spark between locals and visitors alike. The car show becomes an experience complete with classic cars, live music, cruising, awards, and great food.

From an economic perspective, the impact is real. Hotels fill, restaurants see an uptick in reservations, and retailers prepare for increased traffic. From the Chamber’s perspective, the real magic happens when visitors discover businesses they may not have encountered otherwise.

Aviation brings a different kind of momentum, especially with the relocation of the National Championship Air Races to Roswell in September 2025. During race week, Artesia plays a key supporting role for the region with an accessible airport for general aviation aircraft, shuttle transportation to and from the races, and special events hosted throughout the community.

These moments showcase Artesia’s ability to collaborate regionally while still offering a unique experience. Visitors may arrive because of the Air Races, but they leave remembering how they were treated while they were here. Over the last several months, we have received countless compliments, thank yous, and “When we come back next year, we’re staying in Artesia,” comments.

Championing our community during these events means leaning into our strengths—friendliness, preparation, and pride. It means businesses being ready, residents being welcoming, and leaders working behind the scenes to ensure things run smoothly. Last year, five committees helped lead that effort: airport, transportation, hospitality, retail, and restaurants. NCAR generated a total economic impact of $26.9 million, welcomed 56,000 attendees, and drew visitors from 48 states and 18 countries—making the spillover effect for Artesia substantial. That effort creates more than short-term gains; it builds Artesia’s reputation as a place worth visiting, investing in, and returning to.

Artesia Chamber of Commerce sees these events as opportunities to elevate our entire community; platforms for small businesses to thrive, partnerships to grow, and for Artesia to demonstrate why the City of Champions title truly applies. Our hope is that this inspires you and your family to get involved this year, whether through these events or the many others happening in Artesia. Give us a call to find out how you can help.

Jessica Bollema,
Executive Director,
Artesia Chamber of Commerce