Ruidoso Festivals and Annual Events

Ruidoso hosts many exciting festivals and annual events. Everything from Party in the Pines to the Art Loop, AspenFest to the Festival of Lights!  We invite you to browse our diverse selection of year-round opportunities to experience art, music, and culture that makes Ruidoso such a great place to live and to visit. Find an archive of Ruidoso festivals and events HERE.

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Party On The Mountain at Ski Apache [DATE CHANGED]
Nov 23
Party On The Mountain at Ski Apache [DATE CHANGED]

Party on the Mountain is back at Ski Apache! Join Ski Apache as they kick off the 2024-25 Winter Season with a day of food, fun, and entertainment. Enjoy gondola rides (weather permitting), live music, and more. Plus, don’t miss the last chance to get the best price on your season passes! Learn More »

Thanksgiving Weekend in Ruidoso
Nov 28
Thanksgiving Weekend in Ruidoso

Thanksgiving in Ruidoso is ideal if you’re looking for the perfect mountain town getaway packed with the best of the outdoors, indoors, and everything in between.

Opening Weekend - Ice Skating at Wingfield Park (Seasonal, Select Dates)
Nov 29
Opening Weekend - Ice Skating at Wingfield Park (Seasonal, Select Dates)

The hugely popular pop-up outdoor skating rink is back at Wingfield Park for the 2024-2025 winter season! Opening day is November 29, 2024, with fun for the whole family. Don’t miss it!

Opening Weekend: Christmas at the Flying J Ranch (Seasonal, Select Dates Only)
Nov 29
Opening Weekend: Christmas at the Flying J Ranch (Seasonal, Select Dates Only)

Celebrate Christmas at the Flying J Ranch with special White Mountain Christmas winter performances from late November thru the end of December 2022! BOOK NOW for the following performance dates:

Ruidoso Turkey Trot
Nov 30
Ruidoso Turkey Trot

Put on your running shoes for the 5K Ruidoso Turkey Trot, an annual fun Run-Walk on the Links Trail to support the Lincoln County Food Bank. This is the final race of the Run Ruidoso 2024 season. $20 registration fee via Civic Rec (under the Activities & Programs tab)

Country Christmas Bazaar at Capitan Municipal Schools (Traylor Gym)
Nov 30
Country Christmas Bazaar at Capitan Municipal Schools (Traylor Gym)

Shop local and spend less at this annual holiday event featuring the work of talented local artisans and vendors.

Christmas In The Park
Dec 5
Christmas In The Park

Kick off the Christmas season while viewing the beautiful Christmas lights put up by the Parks and Recreation Department at Wingfield Park on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 6:00 PM. There will be pictures with Santa, cookies, Christmas carols, and much more.

Ruidoso Festival of Lights Parade
Dec 7
Ruidoso Festival of Lights Parade

Ruidoso’s beloved Festival of Lights Parade brings friends and family together for an evening of twinkling lights and togetherness in the winter wonderland of Ruidoso.

Christmas Drone Show and Drive-In Movie at White Mountain Recreation Complex
Dec 14
Christmas Drone Show and Drive-In Movie at White Mountain Recreation Complex

Don’t miss the annual Ruidoso Parks & Recreation Christmas Drone Show and a Drive-In Movie at White Mountain Sports Complex on December 14, 2024. Come at 6:00 for a Drive-In showing of "Fred Clause” followed by a spectacular holiday Drone light show. This is a FREE public event. See you there!

New Year's Eve in Ruidoso
Dec 31
New Year's Eve in Ruidoso

Ruidoso is the perfect place to ring in the New Year. Wine, dine and dance the night away with a New Year's Eve celebration. Check out our summary of Ruidoso New Year events with options for every budget.

XTERRA Ruidoso: Ultimate Off-Road Adventure
Aug 15
XTERRA Ruidoso: Ultimate Off-Road Adventure

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.

Events & Festivals, FAQ, Things to do in RuidosoKerry GladdenThings to do in Ruidoso.