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.

Acoustic rock singer-songwriter Bryan Bielanski brings his high-energy “Super Happy Fun Time” to Downshift Brewing Riverside. Known for catchy songs, warm crowd connection, and a globe-spanning touring history, Bryan’s sound blends classic rock and folk with a fresh, upbeat style. A feel-good night of lively originals and easygoing vibes.

Experience the Texas A&M Singing Cadets live at the Spencer Theater on May 12, 2026 at 7 PM. Known as the “Voice of Aggieland,” this premier men’s chorus delivers a powerful patriotic concert celebrating 250 years of America in an inspiring evening of music and tradition.

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.

Supersuckers and Scott H. Biram bring high-energy outlaw rock to Jacks Patina Lounge in Ruidoso. Expect gritty vocals, loud riffs, and boots-on-the-floor energy. $20 advance tickets at https://tickets.holdmyticket.com/tickets/458605?

Celebrate International Tea Day at Lost Hiker Brewing Co. with Thirstday Night Trivia on May 21. Gather your team for a fun evening of global-themed trivia starting at 6:30 PM. Outside food is welcome. Enjoy a relaxed, engaging night in Midtown Ruidoso.

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 >>

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

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 afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

Rock the Sunset Pit on May 23 with Decade of Decadence Revisited. Featuring Hollywood Crüe (Mötley Crüe tribute) and The LA Cult Live (The Cult tribute), this high-energy show brings the sound and style of the 80s to Ruidoso. Dress the part, grab your tickets early, and get ready for a full-volume night of live rock.

Experience the magic of Beatlemania with 4 Lads From Liverpool – Ultimate Beatles Tribute at Inn of the Mountain Gods on May 23, 2026. This dinner-and-show event features classic Beatles hits performed live along with a themed multi-course meal inspired by the band’s iconic songs. Doors and dinner begin at 6 PM, with the show at 7 PM.

Enjoy The American Ride: A Toby Keith Tribute on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Inn of the Mountain Gods. Doors open at 6 PM, show at 8 PM. Sing along to hits like “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.” Tickets are $15 for this high-energy country tribute concert. BUY TICKETS >>

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.

Celebrate National Hamburger Day at Lost Hiker Brewing Co. with Thirstday Night Trivia on May 28. Bring your favorite burger, pair it with a cold pint, and enjoy a fun evening of trivia starting at 6:30 PM. Outside food is welcome. Join the fun in Midtown Ruidoso.

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.

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

Start summer in Ruidoso with Frankie Ballard live at Jacks Backstage on May 30. Enjoy a high-energy country show featuring hits like “Helluva Life” and “Sunshine & Whiskey” in The Pit. Tickets on sale March 20 at https://tickets.holdmyticket.com/tickets/460045

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.

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

The Annual FurrBall is a fundraising event for the Humane Society of Lincoln County featuring dinner, entertainment, and live and silent auctions. Enjoy a fun night out and support our homeless animals! Learn more at hslcnm.org/index.php/furrball/

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

Little Texas brings their chart-topping country hits to Jacks Backstage in Ruidoso on June 6. Enjoy a high-energy, sing-along night featuring favorites like “God Blessed Texas” and “What Might Have Been.” Doors open at 5 PM, show at 6 PM.

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.

Pecos & The Rooftops perform live at Jacks Backstage in Ruidoso, NM on June 11, 2026. Known for their blend of country and rock, the band brings high-energy sound and fan-favorite hits like “This Damn Song.” Tickets go on sale Friday, April 10 at 9 AM—don’t miss one of the summer’s biggest live shows.

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

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!

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

Join Nest Fest 2026 at Downshift Riverside in Ruidoso on June 13 at 6 PM. Enjoy live music, a silent auction, and a family-friendly atmosphere while supporting The Nest Domestic Violence Shelter. All proceeds benefit this important local organization. Tickets at Eventbrite »

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.

Heavy metal powerhouse Five Finger Death Punch performs live at Inn of the Mountain Gods on June 18, 2026. Known for explosive concerts and multi-platinum hits, the band brings arena-level energy to this outdoor show in Mescalero, New Mexico. Doors open at 4 PM and the show begins at 8 PM.

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

The Phil Hamilton Band premieres its smokin’ hot new lineup in Ruidoso on June 19, 2026, at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside. From 7–10 PM, enjoy high-energy Texas Red Dirt and Americana from a four-time Texas Radio Chart #1 artist. Tickets on sale now for this one-night-only summer concert event.

Legendary rapper Ice Cube brings four decades of iconic hip-hop to Inn of the Mountain Gods for an outdoor concert on June 19, 2026. Doors open at 4 PM and the show begins at 8 PM. Fans can expect a high-energy night packed with classic hits and unforgettable moments against the scenic mountain backdrop of Mescalero, New Mexico.

Brewdoso 2026 returns to Wingfield Park on June 20 for a full day of craft beer, live music, and mountain-town energy. Sample regional and national brews, enjoy food vendors and artisan booths, and settle in for an evening of concerts under the pines. A signature summer celebration in the heart of Ruidoso. Learn more at Brewdoso.com

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

Stand-up comedian Felipe Esparza, winner of Last Comic Standing, brings his hilarious storytelling and laid-back style to Inn of the Mountain Gods on June 20, 2026. Enjoy a night of comedy under the stars as Felipe shares relatable stories about family, growing up, and everyday life. Doors open at 4 PM and the show begins at 8 PM.

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.

Catch Giovannie and the Hired Guns live at The Pit at Jacks Backstage on June 25 with special guest Austin Meade. This all-ages show delivers a high-energy mix of country, rock, and punk influences, with raw Texas grit and a full-send live performance. Doors open at 6 PM—come ready for a loud, crowd-moving night in Ruidoso.

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

Red Dirt country icons Jason Boland & The Stragglers take the stage at Jacks Backstage in Ruidoso on June 26, 2026. Known for defining the Red Dirt sound, Boland delivers a high-energy live show packed with fan favorites. Buy Tickets »

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

Celebrate the Fourth of July with the Run White & Blue 5K on Saturday, July 4, 2026 at 10 AM on The Links Trail in Ruidoso. Starting near the Dog Park and Tennis Courts, this all-ages race is part of the Run Ruidoso series. Runners and walkers are encouraged to bring nonperishable food donations to support the Lincoln County Food Bank. Register online via the Activities & Programs tab. Color, community, and a cause—don’t miss it!

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

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.

Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!

Experience Going to Memphis: A Johnny Cash Tribute on July 25 at Inn of the Mountain Gods. This dinner and show features live performances of classic hits like “Ring of Fire” and “Folsom Prison Blues.” Doors and dinner at 6 PM, show at 7 PM. Tickets $75—reserve your seat for an unforgettable night of music.

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

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.

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