Ruidoso's Music and Arts Scene
Experience the vibrant music and arts scene in Ruidoso, New Mexico! From live concerts and music festivals to art shows and cultural events, Ruidoso is a hub for creativity and entertainment. Explore local galleries, outdoor performances, and annual festivals celebrating the region’s artistic spirit. Whether you’re a fan of fine art, live music, or interactive workshops, Ruidoso offers something for every art lover.
Discover upcoming events and immerse yourself in Ruidoso’s creative culture!
DISCOVER RUIDOSO FESTIVALS AND ART EVENTS
Chess Wizards Camp returns to the Ruidoso Public Library July 13–17 with a half-day morning session for students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade. Campers will learn chess strategy, teamwork, tournament play, and creative variations while enjoying fun activities in a welcoming environment. Online registration begins June 1 »
Join the afternoon session of Chess Wizards Camp at the Ruidoso Public Library July 13–17. Open to Kindergarten through 8th Grade students, this interactive camp teaches chess strategy, tournament play, teamwork, and creative game variations in a fun and welcoming setting. Online registration begins June 1 »
Join The Hoppy Readers at Lost Hiker Brewing Company’s Midtown Taproom for a discussion of The Witches of El Paso by Luis Jaramillo. Enjoy an evening of books, conversation, and craft beer while connecting with fellow readers in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
Oso Productions presents The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) (revised) (again) on July 17 at the Enchanted Vine Barn in Alto. Watch three performers race through all 37 Shakespeare plays in a hilarious, fast-paced comedy filled with audience participation, slapstick, and theatrical mayhem. Tickets »
Oso Productions presents The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) (revised) (again) on July 19 at the Enchanted Vine Barn in Alto. Watch three performers race through all 37 Shakespeare plays in a hilarious, fast-paced comedy filled with audience participation, slapstick, and theatrical mayhem. Tickets »
Oso Productions presents The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) (revised) (again) on July 24 at the Enchanted Vine Barn in Alto. Watch three performers race through all 37 Shakespeare plays in a hilarious, fast-paced comedy filled with audience participation, slapstick, and theatrical mayhem. Tickets »
Celebrate the work of acclaimed artists James Tsoodle and Teri Sodd at Mountain Arts Gallery & Framing. Meet the artists, explore original Southwestern artwork, enjoy refreshments, and spend an inspiring evening surrounded by creativity. Free admission. Saturday, July 25, from 5–8 PM.
Oso Productions presents The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) (revised) (again) on July 25 at the Enchanted Vine Barn in Alto. Watch three performers race through all 37 Shakespeare plays in a hilarious, fast-paced comedy filled with audience participation, slapstick, and theatrical mayhem. Tickets »
Create your own strawberry-inspired painting during Paint & Pints at Downshift Brewing Company’s Riverside location on July 26 from 4–6 PM. Led by Bridge to Art owner Kaitlyn Carpenter, this guided class includes all art supplies and one beer or non-alcoholic beverage. Perfect for artists of all experience levels. Advance registration recommended. Tickets are available at Eventbrite >>
Oso Productions presents The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) (revised) (again) on July 26 at the Enchanted Vine Barn in Alto. Watch three performers race through all 37 Shakespeare plays in a hilarious, fast-paced comedy filled with audience participation, slapstick, and theatrical mayhem. Tickets »
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
Join The Hoppy Readers at Lost Hiker Brewing Company’s Midtown Taproom for a discussion of Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree. Enjoy an evening of books, conversation, community, and craft beer with fellow readers in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
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.
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!
Experience cosplay, comics, gaming, artists, vendors, and pop culture fun at R2Doso Comic Con 2026 in Ruidoso on October 17–18. The two-day convention features actors, voice actors, illustrators, tournaments, collectibles, and fandom activities for all ages in the mountains of New Mexico.
CHECK OUT RUIDOSO’S LIVE MUSIC SCENE
Americana singer-songwriter Adam Gaffney performs live at Downshift Brewing Company’s Riverside location on July 15. Enjoy an evening of original music, classic covers, craft beer, and riverside atmosphere as this rising artist shares songs inspired by love, loss, and the American experience.
Enjoy a Friday night of live music at Downshift Brewing Co’s Riverside with two incredible acts! Texas guitarist Dave Millsap takes the stage at 5 PM, bringing Grammy-nominated blues and rock flair from years touring with legends. Then at 7:30 PM, don’t miss SPiVEY, delivering a genre-defying one-man show that blends folk, rock, electronic, and more.
Texas/Red Dirt artist Caleb Barr performs live at Downshift Brewing Company – Hidden Tap in Ruidoso on July 17, 2026, from 6–9 PM. Based in Lubbock, Barr delivers authentic Red Dirt country with heartfelt lyrics and West Texas grit. Enjoy live music and craft brews in Midtown.
FREE live outdoor concert featuring Thomas Michael Riley at Wingfield Park in Midtown Ruidoso.
Chris Baker returns to Downshift Brewing Company’s Hidden Tap on July 18 for an evening of live music, craft beer, and family-friendly fun. The Las Cruces singer-songwriter is known for his original songs, engaging performances, and signature live looping style that creates a rich, full sound. Join friends and family for a memorable summer night in Ruidoso.
Enjoy Live & Let Die at Spencer Theater on July 18, 2026, as Tony Kishman celebrates the music of Paul McCartney with an acclaimed live tribute concert.
Enjoy an evening of Americana, folk, and country music with Forrest McCurren at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside on July 22. Known for his vivid storytelling and heartfelt songwriting, McCurren brings songs inspired by the people, places, and experiences of small-town America. Music begins at 6 p.m.
Enjoy an evening of live Texas Country, Folk, and Americana music with Thomas Michael Riley at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside in Ruidoso on July 23, 2026. Riley’s original songs blend heartfelt storytelling, humor, and high-energy performance alongside craft beer and a relaxed riverside atmosphere.
FREE live outdoor music featuring Mammoth Cults at Wingfield Park during Cool Summer Nights.
The Mammoth Cults take the stage at The Hidden Tap at Downshift Brewing Company on July 24. Blending rock, alternative, and Americana influences, the band delivers a high-energy live show filled with powerful performances and dynamic musicianship. Music begins at 7 p.m.
Experience Going to Memphis: A Johnny Cash Tribute on July 25 at Inn of the Mountain Gods. This dinner and show features live performances of classic hits like “Ring of Fire” and “Folsom Prison Blues.” Doors and dinner at 6 PM, show at 7 PM. Tickets $75—reserve your seat for an unforgettable night of music.
See William Beckmann live at Spencer Theater on July 25, 2026, for an evening of modern country music inspired by timeless honky-tonk traditions and classic storytelling.
Join the Sunday Hootenanny at Lost Hiker Brewing Company’s Midtown Taproom. Sing along, bring an instrument, play with fellow musicians, or simply enjoy an afternoon of live music, community, and craft beer in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Fish Out of Water brings their “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop Tour” to Downshift Brewing Company’s Riverside location in Ruidoso on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 6–9 PM. Enjoy an evening of live music, craft beer, and riverside atmosphere at one of Ruidoso’s favorite summer gathering spots.
Enjoy an evening of live Texas Country, Folk, and Americana music with Thomas Michael Riley at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside in Ruidoso on July 30, 2026. Riley’s original songs blend heartfelt storytelling, humor, and high-energy performance alongside craft beer and a relaxed riverside atmosphere.
Enjoy an evening of live music at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside on July 31. Grammy-nominated guitarist Dave Millsap takes the stage at 5 p.m., followed by Las Cruces singer-songwriter Chris Baker at 7:30 p.m. Experience an entertaining mix of Americana, country, folk, and rock from two acclaimed performers.
FREE outdoor concert featuring Rachel Cole & Gus Miller at Wingfield Park during Ruidoso’s Cool Summer Nights Music Series.
Enjoy an evening of live Americana and folkgrass with Down River at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside on Saturday, August 1. Nashville native Rachel Cole and Austin-based Gus Miller bring rich harmonies, acoustic musicianship, and original songs to one of Ruidoso’s favorite riverside venues. Free admission.
Enjoy Celebrating Celine at Spencer Theater on August 1, 2026, featuring soaring vocals and beloved hits honoring the music of Celine Dion.
Enjoy a relaxed night of live music with Tyler Jones at Downshift Brewing Co. - Riverside on August 5, 2026 from 6–8 PM. This local singer-songwriter delivers an easygoing mix of acoustic tunes and good vibes.
FREE live outdoor concert featuring CW Ayon at Wingfield Park during Ruidoso’s Cool Summer Nights series.
See Sawyer Brown live at Spencer Theater on August 8, 2026, for an unforgettable night of classic country hits and the band’s legendary high-energy stage show.
Join the Sunday Hootenanny at Lost Hiker Brewing Company’s Midtown Taproom. Bring an instrument, sing along, share songs with fellow musicians, or simply enjoy a relaxed afternoon of live music, community, and craft beer in Midtown Ruidoso.
FREE outdoor concert featuring Los Swamp Monsters at Wingfield Park during Ruidoso’s Cool Summer Nights Music Series.
FREE outdoor concert featuring Buddy Vargas at Wingfield Park during Ruidoso’s Cool Summer Nights Summer Music Series.
Experience internationally acclaimed guitarist Pavlo live at Spencer Theater on August 22, 2026, performing his vibrant fusion of Mediterranean, flamenco, Latin, and contemporary music.
Join the Sunday Hootenanny at Lost Hiker Brewing Company’s Midtown Taproom. Bring an instrument, sing along, share songs with fellow musicians, or simply relax and enjoy an afternoon of live music, community, and craft beer in Ruidoso.
FREE outdoor concert featuring High Desert Playboys during the final Cool Summer Nights performance at Wingfield Park.
See Femmes Of Rock live at Spencer Theater on August 29, 2026, for a high-energy multimedia concert blending electric violin, rock anthems, and powerhouse performances.
Enjoy Country Classics at Spencer Theater on September 3, 2026, featuring Linda Davis, Bill Whyte, and Lang Scott in an evening of classic country music and comedy.
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.
Celebrate the work of acclaimed artists James Tsoodle and Teri Sodd at Mountain Arts Gallery & Framing. Meet the artists, explore original Southwestern artwork, enjoy refreshments, and spend an inspiring evening surrounded by creativity. Free admission. Saturday, July 25, from 5–8 PM.
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
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.