The historic Ruidoso Downs horse racing season begins May 22, 2026. For the 2026 season, races will take place at The Downs Racetrack & Casino in Albuquerque. Learn more about the season schedule and related events connected to Ruidoso Downs. Learn More >>
Kick off summer in Ruidoso over Memorial Day Weekend with the opening of the Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake and the Ruidoso Municipal Pool. Enjoy floating inflatable fun, classic pool swimming, and family-friendly recreation. Wibit opens 10 AM–6 PM; Pool opens 11 AM–4:30 PM. Fees apply.
Discover Bird Secrets on May 23 at Wingfield Heritage House Museum. This free, family-friendly event features a habitat-themed scavenger hunt, hands-on crafts like hummingbird feeders and sun catchers, and fun take-home items for young bird enthusiasts.
Enjoy The LEGO Movie as part of the Free Summer Kids Series at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on Wednesday, May 27. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Enjoy The LEGO Movie as part of the Free Summer Kids Series at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on Wednesday, May 27. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Enjoy The LEGO Movie as part of the Free Summer Kids Series at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on Wednesday, May 27. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch teams parade and race decorated beds through Midtown Ruidoso during the 8th Annual High Mountain Bed Race. The route runs from Center Street to Country Club Drive and back, followed by food, games, and festivities at Wingfield Park. Join the fun and stay for awards at noon.
Experience Full Moon Nights at White Sands National Park in 2026. Enjoy live music, ranger programs, and moonlit views of the gypsum dunes. Scheduled programs may require advance tickets; park entrance fees apply. Extended park hours allow visitors to enjoy the full moon even on nights without a formal program.
Watch TMNT (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 3 as part of the Free Summer Kids Series. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch TMNT (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 3 as part of the Free Summer Kids Series. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch TMNT (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 3 as part of the Free Summer Kids Series. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Calling all beer nerds! Join Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap location every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, at 6 PM for Are You Smarter than a Beertender - Trivia Night! Show up at 6 PM, and the fun will begin at 6:30. Teams of up to 4 people are encouraged to participate.
Join the U.S. Forest Service, Ruidoso Parks and Recreation, and EcoServants for a National Trails Day Clean-Up in Ruidoso on June 6. Volunteers of all ages are invited to help care for local trails while enjoying a community day outdoors. Gloves and trash bags will be provided.
Watch A Minecraft Movie at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 10 as part of the Free Summer Kids Series. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch A Minecraft Movie at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 10 as part of the Free Summer Kids Series. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch A Minecraft Movie at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 10 as part of the Free Summer Kids Series. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Discover fresh, local foods and handmade crafts at the Midtown Market, where artists, bakers, wineries, and more converge on Saturdays to provide locally made products in Midtown at Country Club Park, located at 100 Country Club Drive. June 13, 2026, to October 3, 2026. See you there!
Watch The Angry Birds Movie during the Free Summer Kids Series at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 17. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch The Angry Birds Movie during the Free Summer Kids Series at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 17. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch The Angry Birds Movie during the Free Summer Kids Series at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 17. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 24 as part of the Free Summer Kids Series. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 24 as part of the Free Summer Kids Series. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Watch Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs at Sierra Cinema in Ruidoso on June 24 as part of the Free Summer Kids Series. Showtimes are 9 AM, 11:20 AM, and 1:40 PM. Admission is free for all ages, with seating first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity.
Bogey’s Birds and Bags brings three days of friendly competition to Inn of the Mountain Gods June 26–28. The weekend includes a golf tournament, sporting clay competition, and cornhole tournament, plus the grand opening of the resort’s new sporting clay course. Enjoy outdoor sports and mountain views in Mescalero.
Experience Full Moon Nights at White Sands National Park in 2026. Enjoy live music, ranger programs, and moonlit views of the gypsum dunes. Scheduled programs may require advance tickets; park entrance fees apply. Extended park hours allow visitors to enjoy the full moon even on nights without a formal program.
Experience the art where it’s made. Throughout Lincoln County, painters, sculptors, and artisans open their studios for a self-guided tour that invites you to meet the makers, watch live demonstrations, and discover original works directly from local artists.
Celebrate the Fourth of July at Inn of the Mountain Gods with live DJ entertainment, concessions, lakeside festivities, and the largest fireworks display in New Mexico. Enjoy an unforgettable Independence Day celebration in Mescalero beginning at 3 PM and ending with fireworks at dusk.
Step back in time at Fort Stanton LIVE on July 11, 2026, from 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Enjoy Civil War and Indian Wars re-enactors, live demonstrations, Mescalero Apache dancers, local vendors, food, and family-friendly activities celebrating history and culture.
Ruidoso is proud to host IRONMAN® 70.3 Ruidoso Race Weekend on July 11–12, 2026, a landmark event in our rise as a hub for elite endurance competitions. Joining the 2026 XTERRA World Championships, this triathlon will draw athletes from around the world. A full schedule and more details will be shared closer to the event. Learn More »
Chess Wizards Camp returns to the Ruidoso Public Library July 13–17 with a half-day morning session for students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade. Campers will learn chess strategy, teamwork, tournament play, and creative variations while enjoying fun activities in a welcoming environment. Online registration begins June 1 »
Join the afternoon session of Chess Wizards Camp at the Ruidoso Public Library July 13–17. Open to Kindergarten through 8th Grade students, this interactive camp teaches chess strategy, tournament play, teamwork, and creative game variations in a fun and welcoming setting. Online registration begins June 1 »
Experience Full Moon Nights at White Sands National Park in 2026. Enjoy live music, ranger programs, and moonlit views of the gypsum dunes. Scheduled programs may require advance tickets; park entrance fees apply. Extended park hours allow visitors to enjoy the full moon even on nights without a formal program.
Step inside the studios and homes of Alto’s professional artists during this free, self-guided tour. From ceramics and glass to woodwork and textiles, each stop reveals the stories and spaces behind the art. Insider favorite: Many artists offer works not available anywhere else—so come ready to browse and be inspired. Learn more at AltoArtists.org
Join a special Monarch Butterfly Release on August 15 at White Mountain Meadows in Ruidoso. Pre-order a live butterfly and take part in a shared moment of renewal as they take flight at 11 AM. Arrive early to participate in this peaceful outdoor experience set in a scenic park setting.
Experience Full Moon Nights at White Sands National Park in 2026. Enjoy live music, ranger programs, and moonlit views of the gypsum dunes. Scheduled programs may require advance tickets; park entrance fees apply. Extended park hours allow visitors to enjoy the full moon even on nights without a formal program.
The 2nd Annual Ruidoso RunFest takes place September 18–19, 2026, bringing runners and visitors together for a festive weekend in downtown Ruidoso. Events include a Friday night 5K and Kids 1K, plus Saturday’s marathon, half marathon, and road 47K/50K, with live music, food trucks, and a beer garden at Wingfield Park. Registration + Details >>
Explore Fort Stanton after dark on a guided flashlight tour through rarely accessible historic spaces. Held July 31, August 28, September 25, and October 30, 2026, from 7:30–9:30 p.m. MT. Limited to 25 guests, ages 16+. Tickets are $25 and go on sale two weeks in advance at https://my.nmculture.org/events
Experience Full Moon Nights at White Sands National Park in 2026. Enjoy live music, ranger programs, and moonlit views of the gypsum dunes. Scheduled programs may require advance tickets; park entrance fees apply. Extended park hours allow visitors to enjoy the full moon even on nights without a formal program.
Experience cosplay, comics, gaming, artists, vendors, and pop culture fun at R2Doso Comic Con 2026 in Ruidoso on October 17–18. The two-day convention features actors, voice actors, illustrators, tournaments, collectibles, and fandom activities for all ages in the mountains of New Mexico.
Experience Full Moon Nights at White Sands National Park in 2026. Enjoy live music, ranger programs, and moonlit views of the gypsum dunes. Scheduled programs may require advance tickets; park entrance fees apply. Extended park hours allow visitors to enjoy the full moon even on nights without a formal program.
Join the fun at Ruidoso’s 11th Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk on November 29, 2025! The final race in the Ruidoso Run Series kicks off at 10 a.m. on the Links Trail. The first 50 runners receive a free T-shirt and the first 70 finishers earn a participation medal. In-person registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the White Mountain Recreation Complex.
The Long Dog Derby returns to Jacks Backstage in Ruidoso on May 16 with dachshund races, crowd-favorite contests, and more than $5,000 in prizes. From Best Dressed to Slow Weenie, these speedy pups compete for glory in one of Ruidoso’s most entertaining events. Registration is $30 per dog and opens March 23. Spectators welcome for a day of laughs and dachshund-powered fun. Tickets »
Step into a world of knights, music, and merriment at the Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire, May 15–17, 2026, at Wingfield Park in Ruidoso. Enjoy live entertainment, a lively medieval marketplace, period-inspired food, and family-friendly activities. Costumes welcome—come for a few hours or stay the day and savor the magic of the Renaissance. Information and tickets at https://www.lincolnforestrenfair.com
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Win, Place & Show in Ruidoso on May 10, 2026, with free axe throwing for moms all day long. Enjoy patio drinks, live music, bourbon flights, mimosas, and a relaxed mountain honky-tonk atmosphere. Walk-ins welcome and outside food permitted.
Celebrate Mother’s Day with brunch at Rainmakers Resort & Club on May 10, 2026. Enjoy mountain views, patio seating, and complimentary goodies for Mom during this special Sunday brunch event in Alto, New Mexico. Reservations are highly encouraged.
Celebrate the 5th Annual Día Celebration—Children’s Day/Book Day on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11 AM–3 PM at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Hosted by the Ruidoso Public Library, this free family event features kids’ activities, free books, entertainment, and community resources. All are welcome!
Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend at the Lincoln County Garden Club Annual Plant Sale on May 9, 2026, at First Christian Church in Ruidoso. Shop flowers, plants, crafts, and garden gifts from 8 AM to 1 PM, or until sold out, during this longtime community spring tradition in the mountains.
Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend at Rio Grande Grill & Tap Room in Ruidoso with a menu of seasonal chef specials, including crab cakes, seared ahi tuna, shark tacos, bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, flat iron steak, and lemon blueberry mascarpone cheesecake. Enjoy a relaxed mountain dining experience with family and friends all weekend long.
Circus Classic comes to Wingfield Park May 5–6 with two evenings of traditional circus entertainment. Enjoy acrobatics, family-friendly performances, and pre-show activities including a petting zoo, face painting, and bounce house fun. Shows begin at 7 PM.
Circus Classic comes to Wingfield Park May 5–6 with two evenings of traditional circus entertainment. Enjoy acrobatics, family-friendly performances, and pre-show activities including a petting zoo, face painting, and bounce house fun. Shows begin at 7 PM.
Join the Great American Cleanup at Wingfield Park on May 3, 2026. Register at 12:30 PM and help keep Ruidoso beautiful from 1–4 PM. Supplies, t-shirts, food, and prizes are provided. Open to all, with fundraising opportunities available for youth and service groups.
Celebrate history, culture, and community at Fort Fun Day on May 3 at Fort Stanton Historic Site. Enjoy a flag ceremony, guided tour, and a special presentation by Mescalero/Chiricahua Apache artist Talrick Enjady. Free admission for NM residents on First Sunday.
Don’t miss the first annual WagFest 2026 at Wingfield Park in Ruidoso on May 2 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Featuring a Pet Parade, Pet Costume Contest, live music by Cody Jones, food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly fun. A sweet new spring tradition for dog lovers and visitors alike!
Watch the full moon rise over the glowing gypsum dunes at White Sands National Park. Enjoy live music, ranger programs, and cultural presentations during these free 2026 Full Moon Nights. Extended park hours allow visitors to experience the magic even without a scheduled program. Bring chairs, blankets, and layers for a stunning desert evening under the stars.
The 3rd Annual John Ashcraft Memorial Family Trail Run takes place April 25, 2026, at Grindstone Lake. Choose a scenic 5K trail run or a 1 Mile family run starting from the Upper Parking Lot. Open to all ages and abilities. Learn More »
Step back in time at Retro Game Day in Ruidoso. Enjoy classic games like giant checkers, marbles, jacks, and ring toss at the Wingfield Heritage House Museum. This free, family-friendly event offers a fun, screen-free way to connect, play, and experience a bit of nostalgia.
Celebrate Easter at Enchanted Vine’s Easter at the Barn in Alto on April 5. The day features a massive Easter egg hunt at 12 PM, live music, yard games, and a festive barn atmosphere. Adults can enjoy the tasting room Easter egg hunt and the signature Bunny Mimosa. A fun Easter celebration for families and friends.
Celebrate Easter at Noisy Water Winery’s Tasting Room Easter Egg Hunt on April 5. Hidden eggs throughout the tasting rooms contain surprise coupons for guests 21+. While you search, enjoy the festive Bunny Mimosa topped with a cotton candy bunny tail. Happening all day at all winery locations while supplies last.
Celebrate patio season at Rainmakers Resort & Club with Easter Sunday brunch beginning April 5 at 10 AM. Enjoy al fresco dining, scenic mountain views, and Chef Mashon’s elevated menu featuring classics like lemon ricotta pancakes, chilaquiles, and chicken & waffles. Limited patio seating—call 575-336-8650 to reserve.
Join Ruidoso Parks & Recreation for a free Easter Egg Hunt at Wingfield Park on April 4 at 10:00 AM. Over 6,000 eggs, prize eggs, and family-friendly fun await. Arrive early — the hunt begins sharp at 10:00 AM. Open to the public.
Kick off spring at the 2026 Easter Bunny Run on Saturday, April 4 at Cedar Creek Trails in Ruidoso. This annual 7:00 AM run/walk welcomes all ages and fitness levels. Registration is $25, with online sign-up preferred. In-person registration begins at 5:45 AM at the Campground Parking Lot. The first 50 participants may receive a free T-shirt, and the first 70 finishers earn a medal. Don’t miss out—register today!
Join Ruidoso Parks & Recreation for this family-friendly annual event benefiting the Lincoln County Food Bank. This event completes one lap around the Links Walking Trail and is the first of six races in the Run Ruidoso 2026 series. Registration is $25. Register Online Today! (Under the Activities & Programs tab)
Celebrate 27 years of snow-play fun at Yeti Fest on Feb 22 at Ruidoso Winter Park. Wear a Yeti costume for a free tubing ticket and enjoy games, giveaways, specials, and entertainment for all ages alongside Eddie the Yeti.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Farley’s Food, Fun & Pub with the “You’re the Pie of My Eye” dinner special. Share mozzarella sticks, a heart-shaped build-your-own pizza, and a fried cheesecake for two, plus Valentine’s drink specials. A fun, casual date night made for pizza lovers in Ruidoso.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a creative morning at the Wingfield House Heritage Museum. Enjoy hands-on crafts for all ages, including friendship tea blends, scented sachets, Valentine’s cards, pressed flower bookmarks, and photos with loved ones. A cozy, family-friendly event hosted by Friends of the Wingfield House Heritage Museum.
Enjoy a special evening at the Father–Daughter Dance at Dr. Munchies y Mas. This family-friendly event includes dinner, music, and time set aside for fathers and daughters to create lasting memories together. Each father receives a rose for his daughter. Limited seating—reservations required. Call 575-937-8150.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a family-friendly Picture Party at Amplified Therapy in Ruidoso, February 12 from 3–6PM. Enjoy a themed photo backdrop, fun props, cookies, and goodie bags. A sweet afternoon for Lincoln County families to capture memories together.
Support Food 4 Kids Backpack Day at Ruidoso Winter Park on Feb 8. Bring $10 in non-perishable food and receive a free tubing ticket ($38 value) or Screaming Eagle Mountain Coaster ticket ($25 value). Donate more food to earn more rides.
Update: Due to weather concerns, this event has been rescheduled and combined with the museum’s Valentine’s celebration.
Celebrate the Olympic spirit at Wingfield Heritage House Museum! Kids and families can enjoy crafts, games, tabletop curling, a snowball toss, and a Taste of Italy. Every participant receives a medal and complimentary hot chocolate. Saturday, January 24, 2026, 10am–12pm in Ruidoso.
Calling all beer nerds! Join Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap location every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, at 6 PM for Are You Smarter than a Beertender - Trivia Night! Show up at 6 PM, and the fun will begin at 6:30. Teams of up to 4 people are encouraged to participate.
Calling all beer nerds! Join Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap location every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, at 6 PM for Are You Smarter than a Beertender - Trivia Night! Show up at 6 PM, and the fun will begin at 6:30. Teams of up to 4 people are encouraged to participate.
![Chess Wizards Camp at Ruidoso Public Library [Half Day Morning Session]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58c9c6e69f74567f6f50dfba/1779226980347-0SASW8V7DUFMD0OCGOLV/chess%2Bwizards%2Bflyer.jpg)
![Go for the Gold! Olympic Celebration at Wingfield Heritage House Museum [RESCHEDULED TO FEB. 14]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58c9c6e69f74567f6f50dfba/1767636135506-9238W2HJT9TPI97HLF66/WHHM_webcalendar_OlympicEvent+%281%29.jpg)
