Fun and Feel-Good Ways to Enjoy Your Ruidoso Thanksgiving Weekend

Are you looking for things to do during your Ruidoso Thanksgiving getaway? From food and music to holiday events and outdoor adventure, here are some ways to enjoy your Ruidoso Thanksgiving weekend. 

 

1. Kick Off the Holiday Season with Thanksgiving Weekend Events

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Thanksgiving Brunch at Inn of the Mountain Gods
Nov 26
Thanksgiving Brunch at Inn of the Mountain Gods

Celebrate Thanksgiving at Inn of the Mountain Gods with a festive holiday brunch featuring traditional favorites, chef-crafted specialties, seafood, made-to-order omelets, and decadent desserts.

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Opening Weekend at Ski Apache (Conditions Permitting)
Nov 28
Opening Weekend at Ski Apache (Conditions Permitting)

Ski Apache is open for skiing, weather permitting. Please check the SkiApache.comwebsite for hours and ticket information. Tickets & Passes >>

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Ruidoso Turkey Trot 5K
Nov 28
Ruidoso Turkey Trot 5K

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.

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Opening Weekend - Ice Skating at Wingfield Park (Seasonal, Select Dates)
Nov 28
Opening Weekend - Ice Skating at Wingfield Park (Seasonal, Select Dates)

Celebrate opening day at the Ruidoso Ice Skating Rink at Wingfield Park on November 28! The 2026–27 season brings outdoor skating, skate rentals and winter fun to the heart of Ruidoso.

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Aarón Palacios as Juan Gabriel at Inn of the Mountain Gods
Nov 28
Aarón Palacios as Juan Gabriel at Inn of the Mountain Gods

Celebrate the music and legacy of Juan Gabriel with Aarón Palacios at Inn of the Mountain Gods on November 28, 2026. This live tribute honors the beloved Mexican singer-songwriter and performer with an evening dedicated to his music. Doors open at 6 PM, with the show beginning at 7 PM.

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2. Gather Around the Table for Thanksgiving in Ruidoso

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, takeout for the cabin, holiday pies, or seasonal flavors with a New Mexico twist, Ruidoso offers plenty of ways to gather around the table. Explore our updated Thanksgiving dining guide for confirmed holiday menus, specials, and Thanksgiving Day hours.

3. Make Time for Family Fun and Mountain Adventures

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Ruidoso 5K Turkey Trot
Ruidoso 5K Turkey Trot

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 have a chance to 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.

Read more →
OHV Adventures in Ruidoso: Where to Ride & Know Before You Go
OHV Adventures in Ruidoso: Where to Ride & Know Before You Go

Plan an OHV adventure in Ruidoso with guidance for riding responsibly on Village streets and designated routes in Lincoln National Forest. Learn where different rules apply, find official Village, state and Forest Service resources, explore local OHV experiences, and follow best practices that help protect Ruidoso’s mountain landscapes.

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Hikes the Whole Family Can Enjoy
Hikes the Whole Family Can Enjoy

Vacation preparations can be a hassle, but spending time outside with the family doesn’t have to be. Quickly find Ruidoso trails and some hikes the whole family can enjoy!

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Fun Things to Do During Your Ruidoso Fall Vacation
Fun Things to Do During Your Ruidoso Fall Vacation

Autumn is one of Ruidoso’s most enjoyable seasons with crisp weather, changing colors, and not as many visitors. If you’re itching for some adventure, consider one of these fun (and often FREE) fall travel ideas.

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Best Places To Fish In Ruidoso
Best Places To Fish In Ruidoso

From pristine high-mountain lakes and streams to sparkling reservoirs and meandering rivers, discover the best places to cast a line in Ruidoso.

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Discover more Family Fun

4. Remember to Recreate Responsibly

There’s plenty to be thankful for in the Ruidoso outdoors. Whether you’re hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, or simply enjoying the mountain scenery, plan ahead, respect wildlife and public lands, and help keep Ruidoso wild and welcoming.

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5. Find Your Thanksgiving Weekend Stay

Make a weekend of it. Browse Ruidoso cabins, vacation rentals, hotels, resorts, and other places to stay for your Thanksgiving getaway.

 
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