As race week begins, the XTERRA Family is invited to gather for an evening that celebrates connection, culture, and three decades of XTERRA history.
Help welcome athletes from around the world as Ruidoso celebrates the opening of the 2026 XTERRA World Championship and 30 years of off-road adventure.
The evening begins with the XTERRA World Championship Welcome Buffet from 5:00–7:00 PM, followed by an open-to-the-community welcome ceremony from 6:30–7:30 PM. The celebration continues with a free outdoor concert by the Phil Hamilton Band from 7:30–9:30 PM.
The athlete buffet is complimentary for registered XTERRA World Championship triathletes. Additional dinner tickets will be available for friends and family.
The welcome program and Phil Hamilton concert are open to the public.
Schedule
5:00–7:00 PM: World Championship Welcome Buffet
6:30–7:30 PM: Welcome Ceremony Program — open to the community
7:30–9:30 PM: Phil Hamilton Band — open to the community
Learn more about the championship and official event schedule at the XTERRA World Championship website: https://www.xterraplanet.com/activity/xterra-ruidoso-opening-ceremony
Plan Your XTERRA Visit
Explore race-week information, lodging, dining, outdoor recreation, and visitor resources on the Discover Ruidoso XTERRA World Championship landing page.
Discover more ways to experience Ruidoso during championship week in the Experience XTERRA World Championship Week in Ruidoso article.