Experience Ruidoso at its liveliest during this two-day 2nd Annual Ruidoso RunFest celebration that blends scenic mountain running with live music, local food, and a festive downtown atmosphere. Part of the 2nd Annual Ruidoso RunFest, (formerly Ruidoso Marathon Weekend) this family-friendly event invites visitors and locals alike to enjoy the energy of race weekend—whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or simply soaking up the vibe.
Hosted by the Village of Ruidoso Parks & Recreation, RunFest transforms Wingfield Park and surrounding downtown areas into a hub of activity, complete with food trucks, local bands, a beer garden hosted by Downshift Brewing Company, and post-race celebrations set against Ruidoso’s cool-climate, high-elevation scenery.
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Friday Night Fun | September 18
Pizza Hut 5K & Kids 1K Fun Run
Location: Wingfield Park
Start Times:
• 5K Street Run: 6:15 PM (Street Course #4)
• Kids 1K Fun Run: 7:15 PM
The weekend kicks off Friday evening with the Pizza Hut 5K and Kids 1K Fun Run—a relaxed, community-focused event that’s just as fun to watch as it is to participate in.
Wingfield Park becomes the center of the action, featuring:
• Live music
• A lively finish-line celebration
• Post-race pizza from Pizza Hut
• Beer garden and evening social scene
Whether you’re running, cheering from the sidelines, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to start the weekend in downtown Ruidoso.
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Start Location: Fort Stanton (Museum)
Start Times:
• 50K: 6:00 AM
• Full Marathon: 7:00 AM
• Half Marathon: 7:30 AM
Saturday brings the weekend’s headline races—the Ruidoso Marathon and Half Marathon, alongside the State Forty Seven Road 47K / 50K presented by Bluebird Running Co., New Mexico’s only premier road 50K.
Even for non-runners, Saturday unfolds like a downtown festival, with activity and celebration continuing throughout the day.
Festival Highlights Include:
• Awards ceremonies throughout the day
• Live music near the finish area
• Food trucks and post-race dining
• Beer garden hosted by Downshift Brewing Company
• A live bear carving demonstration adding local flair
Spectators are encouraged to explore Midtown’s shops, restaurants, and galleries between race action and enjoy the lively, welcoming atmosphere that carries through the entire day.
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Why Visit During Ruidoso Marathon Weekend
• High-energy, walkable downtown atmosphere
• Scenic mountain setting and cool September weather
• Family-friendly events and evening entertainment
• Easy viewing for spectators at Wingfield Park
• A chance to pair outdoor recreation with dining, shopping, and live music
Photographers will be on site throughout the weekend, capturing the atmosphere and finish-line moments.
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Planning Your Weekend
• Events center around Wingfield Park and downtown Ruidoso
• Visitors are encouraged to book lodging early, as race weekend is a popular time to be in town
• Downshift Brewing Company will host an official after-party and offer discounts to participants
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Whether you’re traveling with runners, cheering from the sidelines, or simply looking for a lively mountain-town weekend, Ruidoso Marathon Weekend offers a perfect blend of sport, community, and celebration.