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.

Featured
Annual Bunny Run/Walk and Easter Egg Hunt
Apr 19
Annual Bunny Run/Walk and Easter Egg Hunt

Hop into spring with two fun-filled events on Saturday, April 19, 2025! Lace up for the 6th Annual 5K Bunny Run/Walk at Cedar Creek—race starts at 7:00 AM, check-in at 5:45 AM. 🥚 New this year: The Easter Egg Hunt hops over to Wingfield Park (300 Center St.) and begins at 10:00 AM sharp! Don’t miss out—register today!

2nd Annual John Ashcraft Memorial Family Trail Run at Grindstone Lake
Apr 26
2nd Annual John Ashcraft Memorial Family Trail Run at Grindstone Lake

On April 26, 2025, the Ruidoso community will come together at Grindstone Lake for the 2nd Annual John Ashcraft Memorial Family Trail Run. This scenic 2-mile run honors John Ashcraft’s legacy and supports a local scholarship for graduating seniors. Entry is $30. Sign up at https://bit.ly/2025AshcraftRun or donate at cfolc.org to make a lasting impact.

Professional Disc Golf Association 2025 Tim Selinske United States Masters Championships
May 8
Professional Disc Golf Association 2025 Tim Selinske United States Masters Championships

Ruidoso hosts New Mexico’s first-ever Pro Disc Golf Association Major Championship! The Tim Selinske US Masters, presented by Innova, runs May 8-11, 2025, featuring top professional and amateur players nationwide. Spectators can enjoy live tournament action at Grindstone Park, Moon Mountain, Oso Canyon, and Alto Lake. Don’t miss this historic event!

AspenCash Motorcycle Rally 2025 at Casino Apache Travel Center
May 15
AspenCash Motorcycle Rally 2025 at Casino Apache Travel Center

Ride into Ruidoso on May 15 for an unforgettable motorcycle experience. Enjoy cool mountain air, scenic byways, and winding roads that draw riders from across the country. Connect with fellow enthusiasts, explore local shops and restaurants, and discover why the AspenCash rally is a top destination for two-wheel adventures in the Southwest.

Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire at Wingfield Park
May 16
Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire at Wingfield Park

Immerse yourself in the magic of the medieval era right in the heart of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Featuring talented jesters, minstrels, and troubadours, a bustling marketplace with medieval wares, delicious Renaissance fare, and enchanting children's activities. Encounter mystical characters, fortune tellers, and more surprises throughout the weekend. Don your finest medieval attire and join event host Oso Productions for a day of history, fantasy, and fun at the Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire. Tickets are available online or at the gate with special discounts for children and seniors.

OPENING WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track
May 23
OPENING WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track

Experience the thrill of live horse racing at Ruidoso Downs Race Track, home to the World’s Richest Quarter Horse Race, the All-American Futurity. Ruidoso Downs Race Track opens its summer meet on Memorial Day Weekend. Learn more at RaceRuidoso.com

7th Annual Great High Mountain Bed Race
Jun 7
7th Annual Great High Mountain Bed Race

Catch the Parade through Midtown beginning at 9:00 am Saturday. Then watch as the teams race their beds back to Wingfield Park for food, fun, and games for all ages. Following the race, there will be activities at the park! All proceeds benefit the High Mountain Youth Project.

RUIDOSO FUTURITY and DERBY WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track
Jun 7
RUIDOSO FUTURITY and DERBY WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track

Experience Ruidoso Futurity & Derby Weekend on June 7-8 at Ruidoso Downs Race Track, featuring over $2 million in purse money. The Ruidoso QH Derby Finals G1 ($850,000) and Invitational Stakes ($100,000) showcase top three-year-olds on Saturday, while Sunday’s Futurity G1 ($1,000,000) and Juvenile Stakes ($100,000) highlight elite two-year-olds. Don’t miss this premier racing event!

Ruidoso Tattoo Expo at Ruidoso Convention Center
Jun 13
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

Smokey Bear Stampede
Jul 2
Smokey Bear Stampede

Eight rodeos in four days! The nation’s largest open rodeo weekend includes four nightly rodeos, a two-day ranch rodeo, a youth ranch rodeo, a kid’s rough stock rodeo, a cook-off, kids’ events, and nightly dances. On July 4th, enjoy a full day of Independence celebration with a campfire Dutch oven competition, mutton bustin’, steer riding, evening rodeo, live music, and dance. You don’t want to miss this annual 4th of July celebration! smokeybearstampede.com

30th Annual Lincoln County Art Loop
Jul 4
30th Annual Lincoln County Art Loop

Throughout Lincoln County artists will open their studios, demonstrate their craft and discuss their creative process creating much more than simply a vibrant art market.

Run White & Blue – 5k Color Run or Walk at Moon Mountain Recreation Area
Jul 5
Run White & Blue – 5k Color Run or Walk at Moon Mountain Recreation Area

Celebrate Independence Day Weekend with the Run White & Blue 5K Color Run and Walk—part of the Run Ruidoso 2025race series! Join us at 8 AM at Moon Mountain for a fun, family-friendly run with chalk stations, medal prizes, and T-shirt giveaways. $25 entry helps supports the Lincoln County Food Bank. Register online via the Activities & Programs tab with on-site registration starting at 7 AM. Color, community, and a cause—don’t miss it!

All American Tailgate and Drone Light Show
Jul 5
All American Tailgate and Drone Light Show

See 150 drones take flight in a patriotic-themed aerial drone show featuring a 300-foot-tall Statue of Liberty, fireworks, an eagle, and other iconic American images. Meet family and friends for a pre-show tailgate and enjoy FREE family-friendly activities and entertainment starting at 5:00 PM.

RAINBOW WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track
Jul 12
RAINBOW WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track

Experience Rainbow Weekend on July 12-13 at Ruidoso Downs Race Track, featuring over $2.3 million in purse money. The Rainbow QH Derby, Oaks, and Invitational Stakes showcase top three-year-olds on Saturday, while Sunday’s Futurity and Juvenile Stakes highlight elite two-year-olds. Don’t miss this high-stakes racing event, part of the 46-day summer season!

Ruidoso 50K, Marathon, Half Marathon, Schlotzsky's Bun Run 5K and 1 Mile Kids Run
Jul 18
Ruidoso 50K, Marathon, Half Marathon, Schlotzsky's Bun Run 5K and 1 Mile Kids Run

Join us for the 6th Annual Ruidoso Marathon Weekend! Featuring the Marathon, Half Marathon, Schlotzsky’s Deli 5K Bun Run, Kids 1K Mini Bun Run, and the State-Forty-Seven Road 47K/50K—New Mexico’s only road 50K. Race through Ruidoso’s scenic, high-elevation terrain. Elevate your running with this challenging race event, the fourth of six Run Ruidoso 2025 series races. Register online today!

ZIA WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track
Jul 19
ZIA WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track

Experience the Zia Festival Weekend on July 19-20 at Ruidoso Downs Race Track, showcasing New Mexico-bred Quarter Horses with over $700,000 in purse money. Featured races include the Zia QH Derby, Futurity, Stakes, 870 Championship, and Juvenile Finals, with distances from 400 to 870 yards. Don’t miss this high-stakes racing event, part of the 46-day summer season!

54th Annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival
Jul 25
54th Annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival

Art lovers from around the southwest make an annual trip to Ruidoso for this juried fine arts show that features over 100 of the nation’s most talented artists, showcasing a broad spectrum of mediums, showcasing collectible art and jewelry.

Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days
Aug 1
Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days

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.

Alto Artists Tour
Aug 1
Alto Artists Tour

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

Annual Brewdoso Craft Beer and Wine Festival at Wingfield Park
Aug 9
Annual Brewdoso Craft Beer and Wine Festival at Wingfield Park

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! Brewdoso.com

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.

Ruidoso Grindstone Trails Runs (4M; 8.5M and 13.8M)
Aug 23
Ruidoso Grindstone Trails Runs (4M; 8.5M and 13.8M)

Join the Ruidoso Grindstone Trail Runs at Wingfield Park on August 23, 2025. Celebrate the 11th anniversary with a Half Marathon Heavy (13.8 miles), 8.5 miles, and 4 miles. Events start at 7:00 AM. Proceeds benefit All-Season Adaptive Sports. Top finishers qualify for the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship. Enjoy commemorative swag, cake, and a post-race party. Register now!

White Oaks Miner's Day
Aug 23
White Oaks Miner's Day

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.

ALL AMERICAN WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track
Aug 31
ALL AMERICAN WEEKEND at Ruidoso Downs Race Track

Experience All American Quarter Horse Championship Weekend on August 31 & September 1 at Ruidoso Downs Race Track, featuring over $4.75 million in purses! The All American Futurity G1 ($3M), Derby G1 ($700K), Oaks G1 ($500K), and Gold Cup G1 ($250K) highlight two days of elite Quarter Horse racing. Don’t miss the grand finale of the 2025 racing season!

ALL AMERICAN FUTURITY QH Finals G1 at Ruidoso Downs Race Track
Sep 1
ALL AMERICAN FUTURITY QH Finals G1 at Ruidoso Downs Race Track

Witness Quarter Horse history at the All American Futurity QH Finals G1 on Monday, September 1, at Ruidoso Downs Race Track! Two-year-olds will sprint 440 yards for an estimated $3,000,000 purse in the richest race in the sport. As the grand finale of the 2025 season, this Labor Day showdown is the ultimate test of speed and greatness—don’t miss it!

Run to Ruidoso: Rusty Balls C10 Club Car and Truck Show
Sep 19
Run to Ruidoso: Rusty Balls C10 Club Car and Truck Show

Join the Rusty Balls C10 Club NM Car and Truck Show on September 19-20 at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack, featuring special guest Steve Darnell from Vegas Rat Rods. The weekend kicks off with a Friday night pre-party at Jack’s Backstage, followed by Saturday’s car show with multiple award categories. After the show, enjoy a free after-party at Rusty Balls Speed Shop with food, music, and giveaways! 

Motor Mountain Weekend
Sep 19
Motor Mountain Weekend

Get ready for a high-octane weekend packed with motorsports excitement! Tackle thrilling off-road trails, enjoy scenic motorcycle rides, and unwind with live entertainment every afternoon and evening. Whether you're an expert rider or a beginner, this event promises roaring engines, flying dust, and unforgettable memories in the great outdoors. Don't miss out on this ultimate motorsports adventure!

Ruidoso Oktoberfest - Downshift Brewing Company Riverside
Sep 27
Ruidoso Oktoberfest - Downshift Brewing Company Riverside

Raise a stein to Ruidoso Oktoberfest! Celebrate at Downshift Brewing Company—Riverside with beer, German food, and family fun. Enjoy live entertainment, including Fungi Mungle and Die Polka Schlingels. Enter contests for best dressed, stein hoisting, and the chicken dance. Tickets start at $10, and VIP passes include tokens, swag, and exclusive perks. This is a rain-or-shine event! BUY TICKETS »

3rd Annual New Mexico 4x4 Rally at Ruidoso Convention Center
Oct 10
3rd Annual New Mexico 4x4 Rally at Ruidoso Convention Center

The 3rd Annual New Mexico 4x4 Rally at the Ruidoso Convention Center is a three-day celebration of off-road excitement and community spirit. Attendees can enjoy a vibrant vendor exhibit, car show, trail challenges, a cornhole tournament, and an overlanding campout. Open to all street-legal off-road vehicles, the family-friendly event promises fun for all ages.Don't miss out—buy tickets now! nm4x4rally.com/

Ruidoso Christmas Jubilee at the Ruidoso Convention Center
Nov 7
Ruidoso Christmas Jubilee at the Ruidoso Convention Center

Embrace the season and join the Ruidoso Valley Greeters for a timeless and treasured tradition, the Christmas Jubilee, at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Admission is only $5.00 and active military members are free. Learn more at RuidosoChristmasJubilee.com

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