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Thanksgiving Weekend in Ruidoso


Ruidoso Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving in Ruidoso is ideal if you’re looking for the perfect mountain town getaway packed with the best of the outdoors, indoors, and everything in between. You’ll find a wide range of lodging, including cozy cabins and vacation rentals as well as numerous activities, adventure events, shopping, history, and culture.

After all of that activity, you’re sure to work up a bit of an appetite for a Thanksgiving meal, with Ruidoso restaurants serving up a spectacular feast for visitors.

Are you looking for things to do during your Ruidoso Thanksgiving getaway? From food and music to holiday events and outdoor adventure, discover ways to enjoy your Ruidoso Thanksgiving weekend.

Ruidoso Thanksgiving Weekend Events

Featured
Grindstone Stables Sleigh Rides Opening Weekend
Nov 27
Grindstone Stables Sleigh Rides Opening Weekend

During the winter holiday season, there are sleigh rides through the historic upper canyon with Grindstone Stables. No snow is required to enjoy a crisp winter evening and the holiday decorations of Ruidoso's oldest neighborhood. Call Grindstone Stables at 575-257-2241 to make reservations, or visit grindstonestables.com

Opening Weekend: Christmas at the Flying J Ranch (Seasonal, Select Dates Only)
Nov 28
Opening Weekend: Christmas at the Flying J Ranch (Seasonal, Select Dates Only)

Celebrate Christmas at the Flying J Ranch with special White Mountain Christmas winter performances from late November to the end of December 2025. BUY TICKETS!

Opening Weekend at Ski Apache (Conditions Permitting)
Nov 29
Opening Weekend at Ski Apache (Conditions Permitting)

Ski Apache is open for skiing, weather permitting. Please check the SkiApache.comwebsite for hours and ticket information. Tickets & Passes >>

Party On The Mountain at Ski Apache
Nov 29
Party On The Mountain at Ski Apache

Party on the Mountain is back at Ski Apache! Join Ski Apache as they kick off the 2025-26 Winter Season with a day of food, fun, and entertainment. Enjoy gondola rides (weather permitting), live music, and more. Plus, don’t miss the last chance to get the best price on your season passes! Learn More »

Ruidoso Turkey Trot
Nov 29
Ruidoso Turkey Trot

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.

Opening Weekend - Ice Skating at Wingfield Park (Seasonal, Select Dates)
Nov 29
Opening Weekend - Ice Skating at Wingfield Park (Seasonal, Select Dates)

The hugely popular pop-up outdoor skating rink is back at Wingfield Park for the 2025-2026 winter season! Opening day is November 29, 2025, with fun for the whole family. Don’t miss it!

Christmas Tree Lighting at Inn of the Mountain Gods
Nov 30
Christmas Tree Lighting at Inn of the Mountain Gods

Celebrate the start of the holiday season during this free, family event at Inn of the Mountain Gods. Get a few holiday surprises from our Barnes & Noble® pop-up gift shop before snapping a few pictures of your kids with Santa. Treat yourself to complimentary cookies and hot cocoa while the choir sings your favorite holiday hits. Then, get ready to welcome the holiday season as they light up the Christmas tree! Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Featured
Where to Find Prepared Thanksgiving Meals in Ruidoso
Where to Find Prepared Thanksgiving Meals in Ruidoso

Whether you're planning Thanksgiving for two or a family, the whole meal — from turkey to sides to pie — can be found at Ruidoso restaurants. Here’s a helpful list of Ruidoso restaurant Thanksgiving menus and prepared meals. Make your reservation today!

Fun and Feel-Good Ways to Enjoy Your Ruidoso Thanksgiving Weekend
Fun and Feel-Good Ways to Enjoy Your Ruidoso Thanksgiving Weekend

Are you looking for things to do during your Ruidoso Thanksgiving getaway? From food and music to holiday events and outdoor adventure, here are some ways to enjoy your Ruidoso Thanksgiving weekend.

 
Earlier Event: November 26
Thirstday Night Trivia at Lost Hiker Brewing Company - Midtown Taproom (Int'l Cake Day)
Later Event: November 27
Grindstone Stables Sleigh Rides Opening Weekend