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.

Featured
Ruidoso Tattoo Expo at Ruidoso Convention Center
Jun 19
Ruidoso Tattoo Expo at Ruidoso Convention Center

Join Tattoo artists from all over the country for three days filled with tattoos, live performances, contests, and more. Get tattooed by amazing artists nationwide, browse vendor booths for unique items, and enjoy watching art in action. Learn more at ruidosotattooexpo.com

31st Annual Lincoln County Art Loop
Jul 3
31st Annual Lincoln County Art Loop

Experience the art where it’s made. Throughout Lincoln County, painters, sculptors, and artisans open their studios for a self-guided tour that invites you to meet the makers, watch live demonstrations, and discover original works directly from local artists.

All American Tailgate and Drone Light Show
Jul 3
All American Tailgate and Drone Light Show

Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary at the All American Tailgate on July 3 at White Mountain Sports Complex. Enjoy live music from Doso Dirtbags and Parker Ryan, family games, disc golf, and a spectacular drone light show. Bring your own gas grill and favorite cookout foods for an evening of community fun, patriotism, and summer entertainment.

Run White & Blue – 5k Color Run or Walk at The Links Trail
Jul 4
Run White & Blue – 5k Color Run or Walk at The Links Trail

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!

July 4th Celebration at Inn of the Mountain Gods
Jul 4
July 4th Celebration at Inn of the Mountain Gods

Celebrate the Fourth of July at Inn of the Mountain Gods with live DJ entertainment, concessions, lakeside festivities, and the largest fireworks display in New Mexico. Enjoy an unforgettable Independence Day celebration in Mescalero beginning at 3 PM and ending with fireworks at dusk.

Fort Stanton LIVE
Jul 11
Fort Stanton LIVE

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.

IRONMAN® 70.3 Race Weekend in Ruidoso
Jul 11
IRONMAN® 70.3 Race Weekend in Ruidoso

Ruidoso is proud to host IRONMAN® 70.3 Ruidoso Race Weekend 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 »

55th Annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival
Jul 24
55th Annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival

A cornerstone of Ruidoso’s cultural calendar, this juried fine art show draws over 100 acclaimed artists from across the country. Explore paintings, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, and more while enjoying regional wines, live music, and mountain hospitality. Don’t miss: The opportunity to meet featured artists and add a one-of-a-kind piece to your collection.

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 Hospice Foundation Annual Butterfly Release
Aug 15
Ruidoso Hospice Foundation Annual Butterfly Release

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.

Annual Taste Of The Spencer Fundraising Party
Aug 15
Annual Taste Of The Spencer Fundraising Party

Attend the 19th Annual Taste of the Spencer fundraiser on August 15, 2026, featuring fine wines, a plated filet and lobster dinner, and an evening supporting Spencer Theater.

Annual Ruidoso Antiques & Collectables Show
Aug 21
Annual Ruidoso Antiques & Collectables Show

The annual Ruidoso Antique Show comes to the Ruidoso Convention Center August 21–23. Hosted by Yesterday Antiques, this three-day event features antique dealers, vintage décor, collectibles, and unique treasures. Browse vendor booths, discover storied pieces, and enjoy a weekend of antique shopping in Ruidoso.

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