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.
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.
Bring the kids to Midtown for safe Trick-or-Treating and fun Halloween events. There will be fun for the whole family with candy and a costume contest for children 17 and younger. Plus, pumpkin carving, pumpkin roll, coffin race, candy, and much more. See you there! Join the fun in Midtown Ruidoso for the annual Trick-or-Treat celebration from 3–6:30 PM along Sudderth Drive—closed to traffic for a safe, family-friendly Halloween experience.
Spend Thanksgiving weekend in Ruidoso with mountain adventures, holiday dining, local shopping, seasonal events, and plenty of ways to enjoy a long weekend together.
Join the fun at Ruidoso’s 11th Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk on November 28, 2026! 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.
Celebrate the magic of the season at Christmas in the Park! Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with music, ice skating, and holiday fun. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive with Mayor Crawford for the tree lighting around 6 p.m., followed by sleigh rides, photos with Santa, and a chance for kids to receive a free toy from Ruidoso Parks & Recreation. Lights on display through January.
Ruidoso’s beloved Festival of Lights Parade brings friends and family together for an evening of twinkling lights and togetherness in the winter wonderland of Ruidoso.
Shop for the holidays at the 39th Annual Christmas Jubilee, November 13–15, 2026, at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Enjoy three days of shopping plus family activities Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $5; children 12 and under and active military are free with ID. Learn more at RuidosoChristmasJubilee.com