Can't-Miss Festivals & Events In Ruidoso

Whether you’re in the mood for beer and barbecue, live music, or the opportunity to discover new art and artists, these annual Ruidoso events are worth traveling for.

Pack your bags and add these upcoming Ruidoso festivals and events to your calendar.

Featured
Old Lincoln Days and Last Escape of Billy the Kid Pageant
Aug 7
Historic Lincoln
Old Lincoln Days and Last Escape of Billy the Kid Pageant
Historic Lincoln

Travel back to the Old West during Old Lincoln Days in Historic Lincoln. Experience gunfight reenactments, living history, Billy the Kid lectures, children’s activities, live music, food vendors, historic tours, and the legendary Last Escape of Billy the Kid Pageant. Celebrate one of New Mexico’s most authentic and enduring Western traditions in the heart of Lincoln County.

Historic Lincoln
Alto Artists Tour
Aug 7
Alto Artists Tour

Step inside the studios and homes of Alto’s professional artists during this free, self-guided tour. From ceramics and glass to woodwork and textiles, each stop reveals the stories and spaces behind the art. Insider favorite: Many artists offer works not available anywhere else—so come ready to browse and be inspired. Learn more at AltoArtists.org

Ruidoso Grindstone Trails Runs (4M; 8.5M and 13.8M)
Aug 22
Wingfield Park
Ruidoso Grindstone Trails Runs (4M; 8.5M and 13.8M)
Wingfield Park

Join the 12th annual Ruidoso Grindstone Trail Runs on August 22, 2026, at Wingfield Park in downtown Ruidoso. Choose from a 13.8-mile Half Marathon Heavy, 8.5-mile, 4-mile, or Kids’ Dash. Enjoy scenic mountain trails, commemorative swag, free race photos, and a post-race party supporting All-Season Adaptive Sports.

Wingfield Park
Ruidoso Oktoberfest - Downshift Brewing Company Riverside
Sep 26
Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside
Ruidoso Oktoberfest - Downshift Brewing Company Riverside
Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside

Celebrate Oktoberfest in Midtown Ruidoso with Downshift Brewing Company on September 26. Enjoy German food, craft beer, live music, stein hoisting, contests, family activities, and entertainment on multiple stages. Choose from General Admission, Designated Driver, or VIP tickets for a full day of festive fun. BUY TICKETS »

Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside
2026 Ruidoso AspenFest: Ruidoso's Favorite Fall Celebration.
Oct 3
Wingfield Park
2026 Ruidoso AspenFest: Ruidoso's Favorite Fall Celebration.
Wingfield Park

Celebrate Autumn in Ruidoso at AspenFest. The weekend celebration is on Saturday, October 3, 2026, with a 10:00 AM parade through Midtown, immediately followed by fun, food, music, and drinks at Wingfield Park. Don't miss Ruidoso's favorite fall festival!

Wingfield Park
XTERRA World Championship 2026 in Ruidoso
Oct 8
XTERRA World Championship 2026 in Ruidoso

Ruidoso hosts the 2026 XTERRA World Championship, October 8–11, celebrating XTERRA’s 30th anniversary and its return to the United States. Watch world-class athletes swim Grindstone Lake, mountain bike rugged forest trails, and compete at nearly 7,000 feet—then explore Ruidoso’s dining, outdoor recreation, events, and welcoming mountain community.

Ruidoso Turkey Trot 5K
Nov 28
White Mountain Recreation Complex (The Links Trail)
Ruidoso Turkey Trot 5K
White Mountain Recreation Complex (The Links Trail)

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.

White Mountain Recreation Complex (The Links Trail)
 
Entertainment experiences, Things to do in Ruidoso, Events & FestivalsEllen BaroneAttractions & Activities, festivals & events, art festivals, Things to do in Ruidoso., Things to do with friends