The Ultimate Guide to Summer Festivals and Events in Ruidoso
Ruidoso’s social calendar is packed with music festivals, outdoor concerts, art fests, running races, and more all summer. Don’t miss a beat with this handy guide that covers the best Ruidoso festivals and annual events happening each month. Start making your travel plans now.

Check out these Ruidoso outdoor concerts and annual events set for summer 2025 Find a monthly calendar of annual festivals and events HERE.
This free, self-guided annual tour offers you the chance to explore behind the scenes of the Alto art community. The public is invited to visit private studios and homes throughout Alto to interact with local professional artists. Learn more at AltoArtists.org
Exciting News! The Ruidoso Midtown Association is bringing back Brewdoso on August 9 at Wingfield Park! Mark your calendars for craft brews, live music, and a fantastic time in the mountains! Mark Your Calendar: Ticket Sales Go Live May 1 at Brewdoso.com!
Experience the thrill of XTERRA Ruidoso from August 15-17, 2025! Set against the breathtaking Grindstone Lake, this event features full and sprint triathlons, a scenic 10K trail run, and a kids’ race—all designed for athletes and outdoor lovers alike. This event welcomes athletes, families, and outdoor enthusiasts to the lush trails of Grindstone Lake, promising adventure for all.
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 >>
The town of White Oaks celebrates its Wild West past with a parade at 10 AM, a play at the schoolhouse, gold panning, a chuckwagon demonstration, food, and vendors. Music from noon to 4:00 pm at the No Scum Allowed Saloon, then again from 6:00- 11:00 pm.
NOTICE: All American Futurity Finals Relocated: Due to flood damage at Ruidoso Downs, the 2025 All American Futurity Finals will be held at Albuquerque Downs on Labor Day, Monday, September 1. The relocation ensures the continuation of this premier race. For full details and updates, visit raceruidoso.com.
Ruidoso Downs’ 2025 All American Futurity, Derby, and Oaks will now be held at Albuquerque Downs due to flood damage. Trials run August 4–6, with all five stakes race finals—including the All American Invitational and Juvenile—set for Labor Day, September 1. Visit raceruidoso.com for the latest updates.
Join the RAINMAKERS Golf Tournament on Thurs, Sept 4 at Rainmakers Golf Course in Alto, NM! $135 includes breakfast, lunch, cart & green fees. 7 AM registration, 8 AM shotgun start. Play for prizes while supporting Spencer Theater operations & programming. Sponsorships: $275 Hole, $1,000 Presenting. Beautiful course, great cause—sign up now!
Ruidoso is proud to host IRONMAN 70.3 on July 11–12, 2026, a landmark event in our rise as a hub for elite endurance competitions. Joining the 2026 XTERRA World Championships, this triathlon will draw athletes from around the world. A full schedule and more details will be shared closer to the event. Learn More »
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.