Filtering by: History
Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days
Aug
1
to Aug 3

Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days

The 2025 Billy the Kid Pageant brings history to life in Lincoln, NM, with performances on August 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. This folk play, first staged in 1940, reenacts key moments of the Lincoln County War, including Billy the Kid’s daring escape. Featuring local volunteer actors, many of whom are descendants of past participants, the event offers an authentic Old West experience. Tickets are available only at the gate.

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Lincoln Lecture Series: Archaeological Investigations at Fort Stanton
Aug
1
11:00 AM11:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: Archaeological Investigations at Fort Stanton

  • San Juan Bautista Church at Lincoln Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Lincoln Lecture Series on August 1 during Old Lincoln Days for a fascinating talk by archaeologist Charles M. Haecker. Held in the historic San Juan Bautista Church, this free-with-admission lecture explores Mescalero Apache encampments near Fort Stanton and their peaceful relationship with the fort. 11 AM–12 PM at Lincoln Historic Site. $7 admission; kids 16 and under free.

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Lincoln Lecture Series: Prehistoric Lifeways of Lincoln County
Aug
1
2:00 PM14:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: Prehistoric Lifeways of Lincoln County

  • San Juan Bautista Church at Lincoln Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join archaeologist Lisa L. Sparks on August 1 for a fascinating Lincoln Lecture exploring 7,000 years of human history in Lincoln County. Discover how ancient cultures shaped the region’s lifeways through sites like Feather Cave and Lower Stanton Ruin. Lecture included with $7 admission; kids 16 and under free.

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Lincoln Lecture Series: Most Dangerous Street in America
Aug
2
11:00 AM11:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: Most Dangerous Street in America

  • San Juan Bautista Church at Lincoln Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join historian Brandon Dickson on August 2 for The Most Dangerous Street in America, a thrilling Lincoln Lecture during Old Lincoln Days. Held in the historic San Juan Bautista Church, this talk dives into Lincoln’s violent past—Billy the Kid, the Five-Day Battle, and more. Included with $7 site admission; free for kids 16 and under. Don’t miss this gripping Wild West story! Buy Tickets »

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Lincoln Lecture Series: The Evolution of the Colt Frontier Six Shooter and the Winchester 73
Aug
2
2:00 PM14:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: The Evolution of the Colt Frontier Six Shooter and the Winchester 73

  • San Juan Bautista Church at Lincoln Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

On August 2, join Prince G. McKenzie at the Lincoln Historic Site for a fascinating lecture on the evolution of the Colt Frontier Six Shooter and the Winchester 73—two iconic firearms that shaped life in the American West. Held during Old Lincoln Days, this talk is included with $7 admission; free for kids 16 and under. Don’t miss this look at the guns that “won the West.” Buy Tickets »

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Fort Stanton LIVE
Aug
23
9:00 AM09:00

Fort Stanton LIVE

  • Fort Stanton State Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Experience history at Fort Stanton's annual event on August 23, featuring Civil War and Indian War re-enactors, demonstrations, live music, and vendors. Enjoy performances by Mescalero Apache dancers and Indian tacos and explore new exhibits in the Nurse's Quarters. Kids can enjoy themed activities, and a blood drive honors the nurses who served. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Free entry is available for qualifying groups. Buy Tickets >>

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Flashlight Tour at Fort Stanton Historic Site
Jul
26
7:30 PM19:30

Flashlight Tour at Fort Stanton Historic Site

Discover the eerie side of Fort Stanton on a special after-dark flashlight tour on July 26. Explore historic buildings usually off-limits to the public and hear chilling tales from the past. Ages 16+ only; limited to 25 participants. Walking and stairs involved. Tickets are $25 and non-refundable.

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Living History Day at Fort Stanton: Learn about historical fire management
Jul
12
10:00 AM10:00

Living History Day at Fort Stanton: Learn about historical fire management

Join Fort Stanton Historic Site for Living History Day on Saturday, July 12, from 10 AM – 2 PM. Enjoy a flag raising, guided cemetery tour with Ranger Javier, and a fire ecology talk by Smokey Bear Historical Park Manager Mary Lavin. Learn about local history and changing forest landscapes. Admission is $7 for adults; free for kids 16 and under and eligible groups.

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Lincoln After Dark
Jun
28
5:00 PM17:00

Lincoln After Dark

Don't miss your chance to step back in time and experience the Old West as it comes alive at "Lincoln After Dark.” Witness history after hours, where the legends of Billy the Kid and the Lincoln County War await to share their stories with those brave enough to listen. Enjoy an evening of adventure, history, and intrigue in the heart of New Mexico's most legendary town. Learn More »

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Guided Hike at Fort Stanton Historic Site & Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area
Jun
28
10:00 AM10:00

Guided Hike at Fort Stanton Historic Site & Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area

Explore Fort Stanton Historic Site and Snowy River Cave NCA on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 10:00 AM – Noon. Enjoy a scenic 2.5 to 3-mile hike with stunning mountain views and rich historical insights. Easy level, limited to 8 people (no dogs). Free, with a $7 museum fee. Register by June 25 at www.riograndesierraclub.org/calendar.

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Guardians of the Night: Stargazing at the Museum of Space History
Jun
14
8:00 PM20:00

Guardians of the Night: Stargazing at the Museum of Space History

  • Museum of Space History Observatory Complex – Upper Parking Lot (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Celebrate the night sky at “Guardians of the Night” on June 14, 2025, from 8–10 PM at the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Enjoy telescope views, real-time astrophotography, and a special talk on dark sky preservation. Free and family-friendly. Held at the Observatory Complex; indoor backup at the Tombaugh Dome if needed.

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Fort Stanton Living History Series: Inside Fort Stanton Cave
Jun
14
2:00 PM14:00

Fort Stanton Living History Series: Inside Fort Stanton Cave

Step into New Mexico’s rich past at Fort Stanton Historic Site’s Living History Day on June 14. Enjoy a guided cemetery walk with Ranger Javier, uncover stories of early residents and Lincoln County War veterans, and learn about the Fort Stanton–Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area with Conservation Manager Warren Kasper. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | $7 adults | Free for eligible guests.

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Lincoln Lecture Series: Starlyn Bigrope highlights the Mescalero Apache perspective.
Jun
7
1:00 PM13:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: Starlyn Bigrope highlights the Mescalero Apache perspective.

  • San Juan Bautista Church at Lincoln Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Lincoln Lecture Series on Saturday, June 7, for a powerful talk by Starlyn Bigrope, sharing the Mescalero Apache perspective in “Ndé History: Our Story, Our Experiences.” Held inside the historic San Juan Bautista Church, this engaging event offers a deeper look into New Mexico’s past through Indigenous voices. Included with site admission; free for eligible visitors.

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Ruidoso Mescalero Apache Honor Day Festival
May
31
10:00 AM10:00

Ruidoso Mescalero Apache Honor Day Festival

  • Country Club Park (Intersection of Sudderth & Country Club Dr.) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Celebrate Native American heritage at the free Ruidoso Mescalero Apache Honor Day Festival, Saturday, May 31, 10 AM–7 PM at Country Club Park in Midtown. Enjoy live music, cultural presentations, artisan booths, storytelling, and delicious Native cuisine. Highlights include Levi Platero, Lee Pike War Dance Group, and artists from across the Southwest!

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Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire at Wingfield Park
May
16
to May 18

Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire at Wingfield Park

Immerse yourself in the magic of the medieval era right in the heart of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Featuring talented jesters, minstrels, and troubadours, a bustling marketplace with medieval wares, delicious Renaissance fare, and enchanting children's activities. Encounter mystical characters, fortune tellers, and more surprises throughout the weekend. Don your finest medieval attire and join event host Oso Productions for a day of history, fantasy, and fun at the Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire. Tickets are available online or at the gate with special discounts for children and seniors.

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Lincoln Lecture Series: Living in Lincoln: Then and Now
May
3
1:00 PM13:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: Living in Lincoln: Then and Now

  • San Juan Bautista Church at Lincoln Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Lincoln Lecture Series on May 3, 2025, with resident Johnny Boswell as he explores life on “The Most Dangerous Street in America.” Held monthly at San Juan Bautista Church. Included with $7/adult admission; free for kids 16 & under, Native/Tribal affiliates, NM disabled vets, NM foster families & MNMF members.

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Smokey Bear Days: Celebrate Smokey's 81st Birthday!
May
3
to May 4

Smokey Bear Days: Celebrate Smokey's 81st Birthday!

  • Smokey Bear Historical Park (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Smokey Bear as he celebrates his 81th birthday in his hometown of Capitan! It's free fun for all ages. The event includes food vendors, a challenge, a hometown parade, collectibles, fire prevention and conservation displays, games, music, activities, and more. To top it off, you can have your pict’ have your picture taken with Smokey. Don't miss this unforgettable celebration!  

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Park Day at Fort Stanton – Celebrating 170 Years
May
3
9:00 AM09:00

Park Day at Fort Stanton – Celebrating 170 Years

Fort Stanton Historic Site hosts Park Day on May 3, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., inviting volunteers to help clean and maintain trails across this historic site. In celebration of its 170th anniversary, the event honors Fort Stanton’s multifaceted past as a military post, hospital, and WWII internment center. Volunteers should bring water and wear sun-safe clothing and sturdy shoes. Learn More »

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Experience Living History at Fort Stanton Historic Site
Apr
12
10:00 AM10:00

Experience Living History at Fort Stanton Historic Site

Experience history in action at Fort Stanton! Enjoy a 10 a.m. flag-raising, 11 a.m. internment camp tour, and a 1 p.m. chapel talk by ranger Christopher Ardent on Celestial Navigation and the Age of Discovery. Learn how early explorers charted the seas with live demos. Admission: $7 adults; free for kids and eligible groups. Buy Tickets >>

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Hands-on History Family Day at Wingfield Heritage House Museum
Mar
1
10:00 AM10:00

Hands-on History Family Day at Wingfield Heritage House Museum

  • Wingfield Heritage House Museum (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Step back in time and bring the whole family to the Wingfield Heritage House Museum for Hands-on History Family Day on Saturday, March 1, from 10 AM to 2 PM. This free event invites visitors of all ages to explore Ruidoso’s rich past through interactive activities and immersive experiences. Don’t miss this fun-filled, educational day!

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Discover Your Family History at the Ruidoso Library: DNA
Jan
25
10:00 AM10:00

Discover Your Family History at the Ruidoso Library: DNA

Discover your family history at the Ruidoso Public Library this January! Join Paula Lasky for a free, four-session series on Saturdays (Jan 4, 11, 18, & 25) from 10-11:30 AM. Topics include "Getting Started," "Probate Records," "Land Records," and "DNA." Paula’s passion for genealogy will guide you through linking generations. Info: 303-589-1483.

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Discover Your Family History at the Ruidoso Library: Land Records
Jan
18
10:00 AM10:00

Discover Your Family History at the Ruidoso Library: Land Records

Discover your family history at the Ruidoso Public Library this January! Join Paula Lasky for a free, four-session series on Saturdays (Jan 4, 11, 18, & 25) from 10-11:30 AM. Topics include "Getting Started," "Probate Records," "Land Records," and "DNA." Paula’s passion for genealogy will guide you through linking generations. Info: 303-589-1483.

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Discover Your Family History at the Ruidoso Library: Probate Records
Jan
11
10:00 AM10:00

Discover Your Family History at the Ruidoso Library: Probate Records

Discover your family history at the Ruidoso Public Library this January! Join Paula Lasky for a free, four-session series on Saturdays (Jan 4, 11, 18, & 25) from 10-11:30 AM. Topics include "Getting Started," "Probate Records," "Land Records," and "DNA." Paula’s passion for genealogy will guide you through linking generations. Info: 303-589-1483.

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Discover Your Family History at the Ruidoso Library: Getting Started- Linking Generations
Jan
4
10:00 AM10:00

Discover Your Family History at the Ruidoso Library: Getting Started- Linking Generations

Discover your family history at the Ruidoso Public Library this January! Join Paula Lasky for a free, four-session series on Saturdays (Jan 4, 11, 18, & 25) from 10-11:30 AM. Topics include "Getting Started," "Probate Records," "Land Records," and "DNA." Paula’s passion for genealogy will guide you through linking generations. Info: 303-589-1483.

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25th Reunion of the Last Great Cattle Drive of Millennium at Cattle Baron
Dec
7
5:00 PM17:00

25th Reunion of the Last Great Cattle Drive of Millennium at Cattle Baron

The 25th reunion of the Last Great Cattle Drive of the Millennium invites past participants, fans, and supporters to gather at Cattle Baron in Ruidoso. This special evening offers an opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and honor the legacy of the 1999 drive, which celebrated New Mexico’s ranching heritage. Attendees will meet in the bar and cover their own food and drink orders.

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10th Annual Dia de Muertos Celebration in Historic Lincoln
Nov
2
10:00 AM10:00

10th Annual Dia de Muertos Celebration in Historic Lincoln

  • Lincoln, NM, 88338 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Don't miss this lively annual community Day of the Dead celebration in Lincoln, NM. Come and join the fun with live music, dance, family activities, face painting, altar offerings, arts and crafts, and food and drink. This community event is free to the public.

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Flashlight Tour at Fort Stanton Historic Site
Oct
25
7:30 PM19:30

Flashlight Tour at Fort Stanton Historic Site

Join a Flashlight Tour of Fort Stanton on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 7:30–9:30 PM! Explore off-limits areas after dark. Limited to 25 participants, ages 16+. Admission is $25 per person. Wear comfortable shoes and arrive on time. Tickets are non-refundable and available online. Don’t miss this unique chance to see Fort Stanton in a new light!

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Grand Opening of Wingfield Heritage House Museum: Ribbon Cutting and Celebration
Oct
17
12:00 PM12:00

Grand Opening of Wingfield Heritage House Museum: Ribbon Cutting and Celebration

  • Wingfield Heritage House Museum (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Celebrate the grand opening of the Wingfield Heritage House Museum in Ruidoso on Thursday, October 17, 2024! The event starts with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon, followed by an open house from 2:00 - 4:00 PM. Enjoy live music, food, and drinks from 4:00 - 6:00 PM. Shuttle service is available from the Mashburn Parking Lot behind Midtown from 2:00 - 6:00 PM. Don't miss this exciting cultural celebration!

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Lincoln Lecture Series: The Forgotten History of Buffalo Soldiers
Oct
5
1:00 PM13:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: The Forgotten History of Buffalo Soldiers

Join Lincoln Historic Site for a lecture by Oliver Horn, Ph.D., Site Manager at Lincoln and Fort Stanton Historic Sites. He'll discuss Fort Stanton’s Buffalo Soldiers and its addition to the National Park Service’s Reconstruction Era National Historic Network. The lecture is included with general admission ($7/adult), and children 16 and younger attend for free.

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Fort Stanton Living History Day: The New Deal Era
Sep
14
10:00 AM10:00

Fort Stanton Living History Day: The New Deal Era

Step back to the 1930s-40s on September 14th at Fort Stanton! Tour a WWII German internment camp, enjoy living history demos, and join kids' activities. Experience the New Deal era and WWII through captivating programs. Adults $7, kids 16 & under FREE. Don't miss this chance to explore a pivotal time in US history. Perfect for history buffs and families alike!

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Fort Stanton Living History Family Day in Fort Stanton - [REVISED DATE]
Aug
17
10:00 AM10:00

Fort Stanton Living History Family Day in Fort Stanton - [REVISED DATE]

Experience history at Fort Stanton Historic Site on August 17, 10 AM-3 PM. Tour the old army cemetery and enjoy kids' crafts, vintage games, and living history demos. Adults $7, kids 16 and under free. A perfect family outing to explore 19th-century military life. Don't miss this chance to step back in time and discover New Mexico's rich past!

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Lincoln Lecture Series: The Violent history of the Lincoln Courthouse at Lincoln Historic Site
Aug
3
2:00 PM14:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: The Violent history of the Lincoln Courthouse at Lincoln Historic Site

Join us on August 3, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM for a special Lincoln Lecture during Old Lincoln Days! Decorated Combat Veteran Brandon Dixon will explore the violent history of the Lincoln Courthouse at San Juan Bautista Church.

Admission: $7 for adults, free for children 16 and under. Don’t miss this engaging historical presentation!

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Lincoln Lecture Series: Cooperative Forest Fire Prevention
Aug
3
11:00 AM11:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: Cooperative Forest Fire Prevention

On August 3rd, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Mary Lavin will give an insightful talk at the historic San Juan Bautista Church. Discover essential strategies for cooperative forest fire prevention and learn the true story behind Smokey Bear. This lecture is included with Old Lincoln Days admission: $7 for adults and free for children 16 and under. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable knowledge in a beautiful setting. See you there!

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Lincoln Lecture Series: An Archaeological Perspective of Hunting at Lincoln Historic Site
Aug
2
2:00 PM14:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: An Archaeological Perspective of Hunting at Lincoln Historic Site

Join this special Lincoln Lecture on August 2, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM during Old Lincoln Days! Matt Barbour, Deputy Director of New Mexico Historic Sites, will discuss hunting in New Mexico from an archaeological perspective at the historic San Juan Bautista Church. The Lincoln Lecture Series is included with Old Lincoln Days admission, priced at $7 for adults and free for children 16 and younger.

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Lincoln Lecture Series: The Capture and Death of Billy the Kid at the Lincoln Historic Site
Aug
2
11:00 AM11:00

Lincoln Lecture Series: The Capture and Death of Billy the Kid at the Lincoln Historic Site

Discover the thrilling story of Billy the Kid’s capture and death with Herb Marsh. This special Lincoln Lecture Series event will be held at the historic San Juan Bautista Church. Included with Old Lincoln Days admission of $7 for adults, free for children 16 and under. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience Western history in an iconic setting.

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San Juan Day Celebration and Cultural Festival
Jun
24
10:00 AM10:00

San Juan Day Celebration and Cultural Festival

Celebrate San Juan Day at the Lincoln Historic Site on June 24, 2024. This Catholic Spanish festival honors the birth of St. John the Baptist and marks the start of summer. Enjoy a special mass at 10 AM in the San Juan Bautista Church and a lecture by Scott Smith at 11:30 As history. Admission is $7 for adults, free for children 16 and under, and covers both the mass ’ both the mass and the lecture.

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