SWITCHFOOT brings the Forever Now Tour to Jacks Backstage in Ruidoso on Friday, October 16, with special guest ANBERLIN. Experience an unforgettable night of alternative rock, massive singalongs, and live energy under the mountain sky at The Pit. Doors open at 5 PM. All ages welcome. Buy Tickets »
Join the 14th Annual Health Fair at Inn of the Mountain Gods on October 17, featuring free health services, wellness screenings, family activities and Walking for Empowerment around Lake Mescalero.
Join the Ruidoso Public Library Teen Book Club for a spooky-season discussion of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs on October 17.
Experience cosplay, comics, gaming, artists, vendors, and pop culture fun at R2Doso 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.
Celebrate fall at Enchanted Vine’s Pumpkin Patch in Alto, featuring pumpkins, festive photo opportunities, seasonal drinks, and crisp mountain air throughout October.
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at KrafTea Sisters in Ruidoso on the third Saturday of each month, featuring tea, treats, and good company from 1–4 PM. Reservations recommended.
Singer-songwriter Richard Nihil brings I Am Hologram’s psychedelic folk and road-worn acoustic sound to Bonito Valley Brewing in Lincoln on October 17, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM.
Experience award-winning pianist Doug Montgomery at Spencer Theater on October 17, 2026. The Juilliard-trained New Mexico favorite brings dazzling musicianship and an engaging performance style to a wide-ranging repertoire spanning Rachmaninoff, Gershwin, Cole Porter, Billy Joel, the Beatles, and more.
Eli Young Band takes the stage at The Pit at Jacks Backstage on October 17 from 7–10 PM (doors at 6). With chart-topping hits and a high-energy crowd, this all-ages show delivers classic country favorites under Ruidoso’s cool fall sky. VIP and GA options available—plan your weekend and don’t miss it. Tickets »
Looking for a feel-good way to spend an afternoon in Ruidoso? Join the Toss No Mas Cleanup on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026, 1–3 p.m. at Wingfield Park. Lend a hand, meet locals, and enjoy the fresh mountain air while helping keep the village beautiful. Volunteers get free food, prize giveaways, and all supplies provided—just bring your smile! Registration starts at 12:30 p.m.
The Saint Cecilia brings a high-energy blend of rock, soul, and rhythm to Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside in Ruidoso on Wednesday, October 21, from 7–10 PM.
Celebrate two years of Ruidoso history at the Wingfield Heritage House Museum on Thursday, October 22, 2026. Enjoy live music, food, and a first look at the new Carmon Phillips Exhibit during this free community celebration from 5:00–7:00 PM.
Oso Productions brings The Rocky Horror Picture Show back to Ruidoso with live shadow-cast performances at Downshift Riverside on October 23 and 24. Ages 18+. Buy Tickets >>
Celebrate fall at Enchanted Vine’s Pumpkin Patch in Alto, featuring pumpkins, festive photo opportunities, seasonal drinks, and crisp mountain air throughout October.
Join the Halloween fun at Fort Stanton Historic Site's Trick or Treat Trail on Saturday, October 24, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. This free community event offers a spook-tacular evening with treats and entertainment for the whole family. Explore the parade grounds in costume, enjoy free goodies from vendors, and delight in surprises along the way. Don't miss this fun-filled, ghoulishly good time!
Oso Productions brings The Rocky Horror Picture Show back to Ruidoso with live shadow-cast performances at Downshift Riverside on October 23 and 24. Ages 18+. Buy Tickets >>
Costumes, dancing, and Halloween fun take over Elevate Dance Studio during the Monster Mash Dance Party on Saturday, October 24. This drop-off event for ages 5 and up runs from 6:00–8:00 PM, with attendance limited to 50 participants.
Spend an evening with award-winning chef, restaurateur and television personality Aarón Sánchez at Inn of the Mountain Gods on October 24, 2026. Known for MasterChef, MasterChef Junior and Chopped, Sánchez brings his culinary expertise and passion for Mexican and Latin cuisine to Mescalero. Event begins at 7 PM.
Light up the night for a good cause at Light It Up for LEAD, Saturday, October 24, at Jack’s Backstage in Ruidoso. Enjoy live music by Fell Runyan, an auction, and an all-ages evening supporting LEAD Therapeutic Riding and its equine-assisted programs. General admission is $30; VIP tickets are $75.
Experience Full Moon Nights at White Sands National Park in 2026. Enjoy live music, ranger programs, and moonlit views of the gypsum dunes. Scheduled programs may require advance tickets; park entrance fees apply. Extended park hours allow visitors to enjoy the full moon even on nights without a formal program.
Dress up the kids and head to the Ruidoso Public Library for a Halloween costume parade, Halloween Bingo, and snacks on October 27 at 3:00 PM.
Join The Hoppy Readers at Lost Hiker Brewing Company’s Midtown Taproom for a discussion of Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell. Enjoy craft beer, thoughtful conversation, and a welcoming community of readers as you explore this acclaimed historical novel inspired by the life of Shakespeare’s family.
Join the Rotary Club of Ruidoso for its longtime Enchilada Dinner & Bingo Night on October 27 at the Ruidoso Convention Center, featuring enchiladas, bingo, cash prizes, and an evening of community fun supporting college scholarships for Lincoln County students.
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.
Celebrate Halloween at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside with live music, face painting, a kids costume contest, spooky cocktails, and seasonal beer specials on October 28, 2026.
Arizona singer-songwriter I Am Hologram, the solo project of Richard Nihil, performs live at Downshift Brewing Company – Hidden Tap on October 28 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Blending acoustic songwriting with punk, indie, and alternative influences, Nihil delivers an intimate and engaging evening of original live music.
Bring the family to the New Mexico Connect Trunk-or-Treat in Ruidoso for decorated cars, Halloween treats, costumes, giveaways, and a Best Decorated Car Contest on October 30.
Put your puzzle-solving skills to the test at the Ruidoso Public Library’s Annual Teen Halloween Escape Room, October 30, 2026. Open to ages 11+; reservations required.
Celebrate Halloween at the All American Trunk or Treat in Ruidoso Downs, featuring trunk-or-treating, a Haunted House, treats, costumes, and family-friendly Halloween fun at All American Park.
Get into the Halloween spirit at Dwight’s Flight Night at Noisy Water Winery’s Cellar Tasting Room in Midtown Ruidoso. Gather your team, recreate the ghostly Dwight’s Blend, swap scary stories and put your wine-blending skills to the test. The best blend wins a prize! Friday, October 30, from 6:00–8:00 PM.
Explore Fort Stanton after dark on a guided flashlight tour through rarely accessible historic spaces. Held July 31, August 28, September 25, and October 30, 2026, from 7:30–9:30 p.m. MT. Limited to 25 guests, ages 16+. Tickets are $25 and go on sale two weeks in advance at https://my.nmculture.org/events
Celebrate Día de los Muertos in historic Lincoln with live music, dance performances, historic presentations, ofrendas, face painting, food, drinks, and handcrafted vendors. Admission is free, and the festival offers a full day of family-friendly activities. Most vendors will be cash only due to limited cell service.
Celebrate Halloween at Enchanted Vine in Alto on October 31 from 11 AM–7 PM. Dress to impress—or distress—for a Halloween costume contest, enjoy live music, themed drink specials and sweet treats, and spend the day celebrating with plenty of Enchanted Vine spirit. Costumes encouraged!
Celebrate fall at Enchanted Vine’s Pumpkin Patch in Alto, featuring pumpkins, festive photo opportunities, seasonal drinks, and crisp mountain air throughout October.
Enjoy a free Reformation Fall Festival at Grace Harvest Church featuring a hayride, games, storytelling, fall treats, sack races, s’mores, and activities centered on the history of the Reformation.
Celebrate Halloween at Downshift Hidden Tap with themed drinks, a costume contest, music by DJ Vampyro, and an AI-pocalypse twist on Saturday, October 31. Ages 21+.
Celebrate Halloween at Patina Lounge at Jacks Backstage with Foulmouth_J, drink specials, a cash-prize costume contest, and no cover from 9 PM–2 AM on October 31. This is a 21+ nightlife event.
Explore Fort Stanton Historic Site and the surrounding BLM National Conservation Area with the Rio Grande Chapter of the Sierra Club on November 1, 2026. This easy, three-mile outing combines local history, a visit to the historic site grounds, and a hike along the Fort Stanton North Trail. Registration is limited to 10 participants. Register by Oct. 29 at riograndesierraclub.org/calendar.
Bottomland is coming to Ruidoso! Catch the band live at the Patina Lounge at Jacks Backstage on Thursday, November 5, 2026. The 18+ show starts at 8:00 PM. Tickets are on sale now at https://tickets.holdmyticket.com/tickets/467105
Explore the volcanic landscape of Valley of Fires with the Rio Grande Chapter of the Sierra Club on November 7, 2026. This easy, nearly three-mile outing follows the Kipuka and Nature trails while exploring the geology, history, and wildlife of this remarkable landscape west of Carrizozo. Registration is limited to 10 participants. Please RSVP by November 5 at riograndesierraclub.org/calendar.
Celebrate Thanksgiving at Noisy Water Winery’s Enchanted Vines Barn in Alto with a Wine Club feast featuring holiday favorites, Noisy Water wines, and an evening with owner Jasper Riddle and head winemaker Fabian Olvera. This members-only gathering is open to Wine Club members and their invited guests. Reservations are required by November 2.
Catch Saturday Night Fights IV at Inn of the Mountain Gods on November 7, 2026. Live boxing returns to Mescalero for an action-packed evening beginning at 7 PM.
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
Become a winemaker for an afternoon at Enchanted Vine in Alto with a hands-on wine blending experience, guided tasting, food pairings, facility tour, blind tasting competition, and a custom bottle to take home.
Shop from a selection of artisan makers and small businesses at A Christmas Affair, November 20 - 22, 2026, at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and décor from talented local artists. Enjoy delicious treats, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun—all in a magical holiday atmosphere!
Texas country artist Clay Hollis brings his rich vocals, driving guitars, and ’90s-country influence to Patina Lounge at JACKS Backstage in Ruidoso on Saturday, November 21. Ages 18+.
Travel back to one of popular music’s most transformative decades with The Sixties Show at Spencer Theater on November 22, 2026. This high-energy multimedia concert brings the sounds and spirit of the 1960s to life, spanning rock, pop, folk, psychedelia, the British Invasion, and the music that helped define a generation.
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 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.
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.
Country superstar Luke Bryan comes to Inn of the Mountain Gods on December 5, 2026, for two live shows at 5 PM and 8 PM. Tickets range from $75 to $275.
Ruidoso’s Festival of Lights Parade returns December 5, 2026, with this year’s “A Holly Dolly Christmas” theme, bringing twinkling lights, festive floats, holiday cheer, and plenty of sparkle to Midtown Ruidoso.
Join The Hoppy Readers at Lost Hiker Brewing Company’s Midtown Taproom on December 8 for a relaxed book discussion featuring The Ferryman and His Wife by Frode Grytten.
Celebrate the season with A Christmas Carol at Spencer Theater on December 10, 2026. Charles Dickens’ timeless tale follows Ebenezer Scrooge on an unforgettable journey through Christmases past, present, and yet to come. Filled with memorable characters and a message of generosity, compassion, and second chances, this holiday classic brings the spirit of Christmas to the stage.
Hunter Hicks and West Bound Hearts bring two full sets of live country music to Patina Lounge at JACKS Backstage in Ruidoso on Saturday, December 12. Ages 18+.
Celebrate the holidays with The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater, December 19–20, 2026. A cast of 70 dancers brings Tchaikovsky’s beloved score to life with spectacular sets and costumes, battling mice, toy soldiers, and dazzling Snowflake Fairies. This timeless Christmas tradition offers a magical experience for the whole family.
Celebrate the holidays with The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater, December 19–20, 2026. A cast of 70 dancers brings Tchaikovsky’s beloved score to life with spectacular sets and costumes, battling mice, toy soldiers, and dazzling Snowflake Fairies. This timeless Christmas tradition offers a magical experience for the whole family.
Celebrate the holidays with The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater, December 19–20, 2026. A cast of 70 dancers brings Tchaikovsky’s beloved score to life with spectacular sets and costumes, battling mice, toy soldiers, and dazzling Snowflake Fairies. This timeless Christmas tradition offers a magical experience for the whole family.
Ring in 2027 at Inn of the Mountain Gods with the Summer of ‘69 New Year’s Eve Party, featuring a Bryan Adams tribute, DJ Frizzo and Retro Revolution on December 31, 2026.
Start the new year with The Hoppy Readers at Lost Hiker Brewing Company on January 12 for a relaxed book discussion featuring Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth.
See Emmy Award-winning actor Richard Thomas in Mark Twain Tonight! at Spencer Theater, January 27–28, 2027. Written and originally performed by Hal Holbrook, this celebrated one-man show brings Mark Twain’s unmistakable wit, humor, and observations about American life to the stage. Thomas is the first actor authorized to perform the show since Holbrook.
See Emmy Award-winning actor Richard Thomas in Mark Twain Tonight! at Spencer Theater, January 27–28, 2027. Written and originally performed by Hal Holbrook, this celebrated one-man show brings Mark Twain’s unmistakable wit, humor, and observations about American life to the stage. Thomas is the first actor authorized to perform the show since Holbrook.
Step into the shadows with Aquila Theatre’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde at Spencer Theater on February 25, 2027. Robert Louis Stevenson’s chilling classic explores one man’s attempt to separate good from evil and the dangerous force he unleashes. Aquila Theatre brings the story to life through physical storytelling, powerful performances, and imaginative staging.
Enjoy an afternoon of western swing with Bob Wills’ Texas Playboys at Spencer Theater on March 13, 2027. Carrying forward the musical tradition of legendary bandleader Bob Wills, this ensemble of accomplished Oklahoma and Texas musicians brings fiddle, steel guitar, piano, horns, bass, and drums together for a lively celebration of a distinctly American sound.
Shamrock the Hill brings Austin Meade, Sterling Elza, Cole Barnhill, and The Smokin’ Oaks to JACKS Backstage in Ruidoso for a full day of live music on St. Patrick’s Day 2027.
Celebrate the music of Barry Manilow with Daybreak at Spencer Theater on March 20, 2027. This live tribute brings Manilow’s memorable pop hits and romantic ballads to the stage, recreating the sound and spirit of his music for an evening filled with familiar favorites, soaring melodies, and plenty of nostalgia.
Escape to the islands with A1A, a tribute to the music and laid-back spirit of Jimmy Buffett, at Spencer Theater on April 10, 2027. With a full band and tropical stage atmosphere, A1A celebrates the songs and stories that inspired generations of Parrotheads with familiar favorites, beach-town escapism, and plenty of island spirit.
Celebrate the music of John Denver with Jim Curry’s Take Me Home at Spencer Theater on April 15, 2027. This live tribute honors Denver’s enduring catalog of mountain anthems, heartfelt ballads, and familiar favorites, capturing the warmth, optimism, and connection to nature that made his music beloved by generations.
Celebrate spooky season at Noisy Water Winery’s Ruidoso Tasting Room with a Halloween-inspired charcuterie building class on October 15. Create your own festive board while enjoying a complimentary glass of wine.
Enjoy a creative evening at Sip & Paint at the Barn at Enchanted Vine Barn on October 15 from 5:30–8 PM. This guided paint-and-sip event welcomes all skill levels and includes step-by-step instruction, wine, and a relaxing rustic barn atmosphere. Perfect for date night, girls’ night out, or a fun gathering with friends. Cost: $40
Celebrate New Mexico chile season at Enchanted Vine with fresh-roasted chiles and a complimentary splash of red or green chile wine for guests 21+. No reservations required.
Head to historic Lincoln for a Billy the Kid-themed acoustic jam session with old friends at Bonito Valley Brewing Company, featuring live music from 1:00 to 5:00 PM on Saturday, October 10.
DJ SMØXA takes over Patina Lounge at JACKS Backstage for Patina After Dark, featuring an open-format DJ set from 9 PM to 2 AM on Saturday, October 10. No cover.
Celebrate the 2026 XTERRA World Championship with two evenings of awards and festivities at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Full-distance awards and the XTERRA After Party take place Saturday, October 10. Sunday’s Youth Awards and Closing Ceremony welcome the community; a dinner ticket is required and may be purchased at the XTERRA Expo.
Brian and Gil of the Karson City Rebels bring their acoustic blend of rock, country, and blues to Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside on October 10.
Celebrate fall at Enchanted Vine’s Pumpkin Patch in Alto, featuring pumpkins, festive photo opportunities, seasonal drinks, and crisp mountain air throughout October.
Explore butterflies, birds, watercolor and nature-inspired art at Watercolors & Winged Wonders, a free Family Day at the Wingfield Heritage House Museum on October 10.
Catch Teton Gravity Research’s Actually, It Is Rocket Science at JACKS Backstage on October 9, with a silent auction and raffle benefiting Ski Apache Mountain Rescue and Ski Patrol.
Watch the sun rise over the mountains during this free guided XTERRA Community Hike on Friday, October 9. Explore the Grindstone Mesa Loop with local Happy Hiker guides while discovering the scenery, wildlife, and outdoor beauty that make Ruidoso a premier mountain destination.
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.
Welcome athletes from around the world at Wingfield Park on October 8. The XTERRA Welcome Ceremony and Phil Hamilton Band concert are free and open to the public, with no ticket or purchase required. Join the community as Ruidoso kicks off four days of World Championship racing and celebration.
Registered XTERRA World Championship athletes can enjoy exclusive discounts at participating Ruidoso businesses during race week. Claim your digital Shop Hop Pass, then present it at participating businesses to receive special offers at local restaurants, breweries, wineries, boutiques, outdoor outfitters, galleries, wellness businesses, and specialty shops throughout Ruidoso.
Relax and recharge with free evening yoga at Downshift Riverside during XTERRA World Championship week. Evening classes October 7–9 welcome athletes, visitors, and local residents for a peaceful way to end the day. Advance registration is required.
Explore Moon Mountain Trail during this free guided XTERRA Community Hike on Wednesday, October 7. Led by local Happy Hiker guides, the approximately 5K hike offers visitors and residents an opportunity to experience Ruidoso’s mountain scenery, wildlife, and forest landscapes during XTERRA World Championship week.
Start your day with free morning yoga at Blue Lotus Day Spa & Yoga during XTERRA World Championship week. Daily classes from October 7–10 welcome athletes, visitors, and local residents for a relaxing mountain wellness experience. Advance registration is required.
Cozy up for Taproom Bingo: Sweater Weather Edition at Lost Hiker Brewing Company in Midtown Ruidoso, featuring fall-themed bingo and handmade knitted prizes. Bingo starts at 6:30 PM.
Join First Tuesday Yoga with Niki at Noisy Water Winery in Midtown Ruidoso for an evening of movement, relaxation, and local wine. Your $15 ticket includes an all-levels yoga class led by Niki plus a complimentary beverage. Bring your mat, invite your friends, and unwind in a welcoming atmosphere. Club Members receive a 10% discount.
Bring an instrument or simply come listen at Lost Hiker’s Sunday Hootenanny on October 4. Musicians of all skill levels are welcome for an informal afternoon of playing, singing, and sharing songs.
Experience Lincoln after dark on October 3 with live music by The Dynamic Duo featuring Spencer Gandy and Mark Garcia, food vendors, local merchants and Lincoln County War history. The evening also includes a courthouse screening of Billy the Kid Versus Dracula before the festival. Tickets are $20; kids under 12 are free.
Saddle up for the 18th Annual LCFA Benefit Ranch Rodeo at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds in Capitan on October 3. The free ranch rodeo begins at 5 PM with adult and youth events, followed by dinner, an auction and dancing to the Graham Brothers. Proceeds benefit local crisis victims through the Lincoln Cowboy Crisis Fund.
Laugh along with Menopause The Musical at Spencer Theater on October 3, 2026. Four women meet at a lingerie sale and discover they have more in common than expected, turning hot flashes, mood swings, and life’s changes into a hilarious celebration of friendship and womanhood. This 90-minute musical comedy features parodies of favorite pop songs from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s.
Celebrate fall at Enchanted Vine’s Pumpkin Patch in Alto, featuring pumpkins, festive photo opportunities, seasonal drinks, and crisp mountain air throughout October.
Celebrate fall at Ruidoso AspenFest on October 3, 2026, featuring the Midtown Parade at 10 AM with the theme “Harvesting Adventure,” followed by the Wingfield Park Festival from 11 AM–6 PM. Enjoy live music, New Mexico wine and craft beer, food vendors, and kids’ activities. Admission is $10, $25 with wine and beer tasting, and free for kids 12 and under.
Discover fresh produce, handmade crafts, artisan foods, baked goods, local wines, and more at the Midtown Market every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Country Club Park in Midtown Ruidoso. Meet local growers, artists, bakers, and makers while enjoying one of Ruidoso’s favorite seasonal community markets, running through October 3.
Explore the Carrizozo Lava Flow during a free guided hike with Warren Kasper of the Fort Stanton–Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area. Learn about local geology, plants, and wildlife while celebrating the 60th anniversary of Valley of Fires Recreation Area and America’s 250th anniversary.
Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just looking for a fun night out, Win, Place and Show bar promises an unforgettable experience. So grab your cowboy boots and enjoy a night of country music and dancing. Please note that this event is exclusively for those aged 21 and older.
Catch Ruidoso locals Doso Dirtbags live at Downshift Brewing Company’s Hidden Tap on October 2 for an energetic mix of mountain country, punk, blues, and Irish-inspired music.
Killer Keyz Dueling Pianos returns to the Patina Lounge at Jacks Backstage on October 2, 2026, for an interactive, audience-driven night of requests, sing-alongs, country, rock, throwbacks, and more. Doors open at 6 PM.
