Find a monthly calendar of festivals and events HERE.
Find an annual list of festivals and events HERE.
Would you like to tell us about your event? Submit your event details here.
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 »
Catch West Texas’ own Russell Joe Thompson live at Downshift Brewing Co. on November 24! With honky-tonk roots and a 90s grunge twist, Russell’s powerful originals and unforgettable covers bring an evening of raw, poetic storytelling and moody melodies. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind show 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.
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!
Enjoy a night of incredible live music at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside on November 29, 2024! Texas-based guitarist Dave Millsap kicks off at 5 PM with bluesy brilliance, followed by Roswell's own Matt Palmer Band at 7:30 PM, rocking the house with electrifying vocals and guitar. Don’t miss this evening of great tunes and brews! Location: 2704 Sudderth Dr., Ruidoso, NM.
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:
Dave Hamilton's Electric Rock Cello Show is back! Prepare for an electrifying night as Dave Hamilton rocks out with his unique electric cello, performing your favorite classics and new hits. Join the fun for an unforgettable evening of music and energy at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap.
Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend at Billy’s Cantina with the ultimate party! Join DJ Movado live on Friday, November 29, and Saturday, November 30, for two nights of incredible music, dancing, and fun. Enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Ruidoso Downs/Billy the Kid Casino. This 21+ event is the perfect way to keep the holiday vibes going.
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)
Shop local and spend less at this annual holiday event featuring the work of talented local artisans and vendors.
Dave Hamilton's Electric Rock Cello Show is back! Prepare for an electrifying night as Dave Hamilton rocks out with his unique electric cello, performing your favorite classics and new hits. Join the fun for an unforgettable evening of music and energy at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap.
Experience leaders in the Norteño-sax genre La Fiera de Ojinaga live this November at Inn of the Mountain Gods!
Enjoy an evening of great music and atmosphere with Moksi live at Downshift Brewing Company - Hidden Tap on November 30, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Moksi's unique blend of soul, folk, blues, and jazz offers a captivating musical experience you won’t want to miss.
Celebrate the start of the Christmas season at Inn of the Mountain Gods with a free family event. Enjoy cookies, hot cocoa, and a Barnes & Noble® pop-up gift shop. Capture memories with Santa from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, then listen to the Eastern New Mexico University™ choir's carol performance at 6:15 pm. The event concludes with a festive Christmas tree lighting at 7:00 pm. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Celebrate the season with This Is Christmas by Mary MacDonald, presented by the Lincoln County Choir. This free Christmas concert features three performances: December 1st at Corona Presbyterian Church, December 8th at Carrizozo Methodist Church, and December 15th at Capitan Methodist Church, all at 3:00 pm. For details, contact Scott Shafer at 575-648-2142 or Sherrill Bradford at 575-849-1633.
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.
Noisy Water Winery invites you to "The Repeal: Prohibition's End Celebration" on December 6, 2024, at Enchanted Vine in Alto, NM. Guests can revel in the spirit of the roaring twenties with jazz, glitz, and a special Prohibition-inspired cocktail menu. Attendees are encouraged to dress in 1920s-style attire and enjoy an evening of historic revelry from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Free Admission.
Join the 6th Annual Win Place & Show Bourbon Auction on December 7, 2024! Enjoy a flight of 3 hand-selected bourbons, crafted appetizers by Chef Mashon Swenor, and exclusive auction offerings. Space is limited—reserve now! Call Mike at 505-330-3578 or email wpsruidoso@gmail.com. Visit winplaceandshowbar.com for updates. Don’t miss this spirited event!
Join Santa Paws on December 7, 12–3 pm, for holiday pet photos with Santa by photographer Sarah Matula. A $20 donation is suggested, with proceeds supporting homeless animals. Help make a difference while creating festive memories!
Join Michael Martin Murphey’s Cowboy Christmas on Saturday, December 7, at 2 pm for a festive blend of music, featuring songs from his best-selling Christmas albums and popular country and pop hits. Enjoy the spirit of the season with a public buffet at noon, featuring roasted pork loin. Celebrate three decades of music that captures the rustic essence of Jesus' birth. Buy Tickets >>
The 25th reunion of the Last Great Cattle Drive of the Millennium invites past participants, fans, and supporters to gather at Cattle Baron in Ruidoso. This special evening offers an opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and honor the legacy of the 1999 drive, which celebrated New Mexico’s ranching heritage. Attendees will meet in the bar and cover their own food and drink orders.
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.
Celebrate the season with This Is Christmas by Mary MacDonald, presented by the Lincoln County Choir. This free Christmas concert features three performances: December 1st at Corona Presbyterian Church, December 8th at Carrizozo Methodist Church, and December 15th at Capitan Methodist Church, all at 3:00 pm. For details, contact Scott Shafer at 575-648-2142 or Sherrill Bradford at 575-849-1633.
Join Downshift Brewing Company for the 2nd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Sunday, December 8th at 4 PM! Enjoy live music by the ENMU choir, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, face painting, cookie decorating, drink specials, and more. This free, family-friendly event at Riverside is open to the public—don’t miss a festive evening for all ages!
Join Noisy Water Winery on December 14, 2024, for the release of the 2021 Syrah and 2023 Don't Tell Mamma Dry Apple Wine! Enjoy complimentary tastings with a full glass for wine club members. Exclusive discounts include 35% off full cases and 20% off half cases of the featured wines. Take advantage of this chance to savor the latest wines and enjoy great savings!
Celebrate the season at the Holiday Market on December 14-15, 2024, from 11 AM to 5 PM at Enchanted Vine by Noisy Water Winery in Alto, NM. Enjoy live music and festive treats like mulled wine and hot chocolate, and shop for unique gifts from local vendors. Don’t miss Santa, available for photos from 12-4 PM. It’s the perfect place to find special holiday treasures.
Experience the magic of the holidays at Fort Stanton Historic Site on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM with a captivating opera performance by Karla Ramos, an acclaimed soprano with international accolades. Set in the historic stone chapel, enjoy holiday classics in an intimate setting. Tickets are $10/adults, free for kids 16 and under, including site access. Reserve at my.nmculture.org/33869/41939.
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!
Celebrate the season with This Is Christmas by Mary MacDonald, presented by the Lincoln County Choir. This free Christmas concert features three performances: December 1st at Corona Presbyterian Church, December 8th at Carrizozo Methodist Church, and December 15th at Capitan Methodist Church, all at 3:00 pm. For details, contact Scott Shafer at 575-648-2142 or Sherrill Bradford at 575-849-1633.
Get ready for laughter and mystery with Clue: On Stage! Based on the 1985 film and classic Hasbro game, this hilarious whodunit follows six guests, a butler, and a mansion full of secrets. Who did it, where, and with what? Performances: Dec. 20-22 at ENMU Ruidoso. Tickets: Adults $20, Students $15, Kids under 5 free. Buy now: osoproductionsruidoso.com/2024tickets.
STARRING THE RUIDOSO ACADEMY OF BALLET AND DANCE. A cast of 70 outstanding dancers will transform Tchaikovsky's world-famous musical score into a brilliant visual dreamscape with spectacular sets & costumes that bring battling mice, toy soldiers & dazzling Snowflake Fairies to life! This opulent coming-of-age journey is a timeless Christmas gift for the entire family! BUY TICKETS Saturday, December 21 at 2 pm & 7 pm; Sunday, December, 22 at 2 pm. • $39
Get into the spirit of the season with Jon Pardi! Jon Pardi has made a name for himself for getting back to country music’s roots, applying new ideas to old sounds. Buy Tickets >>
Roswell's own uber-talented Matt Palmer will be live at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap on Saturday, December 28, 2024. Get ready for Matt to rock the house (literally). This guy's voice and guitar skills are incredible.
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.
Explore the world of ink at the HighRollers Tattoo Expo! Watch top artists compete for trophies, get tattooed by elite professionals, and browse unique vendors—all under one roof. Whether you're a tattoo enthusiast or just curious, don’t miss this celebration of tattoo artistry. Join us for an unforgettable day on February 28, 2025, at the Inn of the Mountain Gods. More info at Ruidosotattooexpo.com.
Join "Dragons & Mythical Beasts" on Monday, March 3, at 6 pm for an interactive adventure for ages 4 and up. Discover mythical creatures like the Stone Troll, Unicorn, Griffin, and more in a world of legends and secrets. Enjoy a public buffet with chicken tenders at 5 pm. From the creators of "Dinosaur World Live," experience a thrilling show with spectacular puppetry. Buy Tickets >>
Get ready to boogie at "When Disco Was King" on Saturday, March 15, at 7 pm. Celebrate the disco era with The Kings of Disco, former members of the world-famous Village People. Enjoy a public buffet with beef skewers at 5 pm or a Founders Room dinner with herb-roasted filet of beef. Dance the night away to hits from the Bee Gees, Donna Summer, Earth, Wind & Fire, and more. Buy Tickets >>
Experience the magic of Ireland with "Emerald Isle" at Spencer Theater on Saturday, March 22, at 7 pm. Enjoy a lively celebration of Irish music and dance featuring 20 singers and dancers from Ireland. Dine on fish & chips at a public buffet or walnut-crusted halibut in the Founders Room at 5 pm. Produced by Chris Hannen, this show brings the spirit of Ireland to life through traditional tunes and reimagined classics. Tickets are $49-$69.
Experience the electrifying show "iLuminate" on Saturday, April 5, at 7 pm at the Spencer Theater. This unique performance combines cutting-edge technology with dance, featuring top dancers in LED suits synchronized to music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Enjoy a hearty green chile beef stew buffet or a Founders Room dinner with herb-roasted prime rib at 5 pm. Buy Tickets >>
Join "Champions of Magic" on Thursday, April 10, at 7 pm at the Spencer Theater for an explosive show of thrilling illusions and grand-scale magic. Enjoy a public buffet with chicken curry or a Founders Room dinner with a filet of beef and Thai curry at 5 pm. This high-energy, interactive performance combines humor with mind-bending magic, offering a unique experience for the entire family. Buy Tickets >>
Experience Eric Elison's tribute to Gordon Lightfoot on Saturday, April 19, at 7 pm at the Spencer Theater. Known as the "Lightfoot of the Rockies," Elison performs Lightfoot’s greatest hits with a talented band. Enjoy a Korean BBQ pork buffet or a Founders Room dinner with a double cut pork chop at 5 pm. Elison’s rich baritone and passion for Lightfoot’s music promise an unforgettable evening. Buy Tickets >>
Enjoy a journey through the history of Doo Wop with The Doo Wop Project on Friday, May 9, at 7 pm at the Spencer Theater. Relive the classic sounds of Frankie Valli, The Drifters, and more, with harmonies from the street corner to modern hits. Enjoy a green chile chicken enchiladas buffet or a Founders Room dinner featuring redfish romesco at 5 pm. Buy Tickets >>
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.
Enjoy an afternoon of live music with Colton Amerson at Win Place and Show Bar in Ruidoso on November 23, 2024, from 2:00 to 7:00 PM. With a mix of country favorites and classic rock tunes, Colton delivers a lively performance you won’t want to miss. Grab your friends and join the fun!
Algodones Distillery invites whiskey lovers to its shop for the return of the popular “Meet the Distiller” event! Celebrate the launch of larger bottles of Nina Baby Blue Corn Bourbon and Maiz Single Barrel Whiskey. Guests can enjoy tastings, meet the distiller, and enter raffles for exclusive distillery swag. This event is free and open to the public—perfect for whiskey enthusiasts!
Calling all beer nerds! Join the fun at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap location on Friday, November 22nd, at 6 PM for "Are You Smarter Than a Beertender?" - Trivia Night! Gather your friends and form teams of up to 4 people for a fun-filled evening. Show up at 6 PM, and the trivia fun will begin at 6:30. Test your knowledge and see if you can outsmart our beertenders!
Join Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside on November 22, 2024, for an evening of live music featuring Texas guitarist Dave Millsap and folk singer-songwriter Alex Teller. Millsap, known for his Grammy-nominated work with Delbert McClinton, will perform at 5 PM. Teller, bringing his vintage country sound and storytelling lyrics, takes the stage at 7:30 PM. Enjoy a night of blues, folk, and great company!
Don't miss the opportunity to embrace the spirit of giving and create lasting memories at this heartwarming and festive annual fundraiser event for Lincoln County Santa's Helpers. Enjoy musical performances, savor delicious hors d'oeuvres, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. Your generous contributions will help make the holiday season brighter for families in need.
Bring your A-game to a lively evening of fun, challenging, and quirky questions at The Cellar Uncorked! Each month, trivia buffs are invited to test their knowledge, with prizes awarded to the top three teams. It’s free to play and open to ages 21 and up. Don’t miss the chance to showcase your smarts and enjoy a great night out!
Experience an evening with Tom Andes at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside in Ruidoso! Known for his award-winning mystery writing and acclaimed EPs, Tom blends storytelling with soulful country music. Originally from New Hampshire and now based in Albuquerque, he brings a rich, eclectic background to his live performances.
Join Downshift Brewing Company Riverside for an evening of art and craft beer on October 20, 2024, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.! Led by Bridge to Art, a local studio and gallery, each $40 ticket includes a painting class with supplies and a complimentary drink. Tickets are limited, so secure yours quickly at Eventbrite >>.
Get ready for an unforgettable night as Phil Hamilton celebrates the release of his latest single, Coyotes and Trains, with a live show at Billy the Kid Cantina at Ruidoso Downs Race Track! Join the fun on Saturday, November 16, at 8:00 PM for a free event perfect for the whole family. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy great music, good company, and a fantastic evening out!
Join Downshift Brewing Company Riverside for a night with CW Ayon performing original High Desert Country Blues and Boogie music!
Don't miss Chris Baker at Downshift Brewing's Hidden Tap on November 16, 6:00-9:00 PM! This Las Cruces native returns with his signature loop-enhanced covers and originals. Bring the family for a night of craft beer and live music from one of the best singer-songwriters around. Chris's shows are always a hit!
Experience country music mainstay Darryl Worley live this November at Inn of the Mountain Gods! TICKETS ON SALE 8/30 @ 10AM MST
Don't miss this chance to witness the ethereal beauty of White Sands National Park under the captivating glow of the moon during your Ruidoso vacation! Secure your tickets early and be part of an unforgettable nocturnal adventure.
Kick off the holiday season with a weekend of shopping at the YuccaBlossom Trade Days Autumn Market! Explore a variety of vendors offering unique gifts, handcrafted items, and local products. It's the perfect opportunity to find something special for everyone on your list. While you shop, don’t miss the silent auction—your chance to bid on fantastic items while supporting a family in need. Help make a difference and enjoy a festive weekend in Ruidoso!
Experience a night of soulful music with CW Ayon at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap! CW Ayon will mesmerize you with his original High Desert Country Blues and Boogie music. Enjoy an evening filled with great music, good company, and unforgettable vibes.
The Annual FurrBall is a fundraising event for the Humane Society of Lincoln County featuring dinner, entertainment, and live and silent auctions. Enjoy a fun night out and support our homeless animals! Learn more at hslcnm.org/index.php/furrball/
Join Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside on November 15, 2024, for a night of live music with Dave Millsap and Moksi. Starting at 5:00 PM, Texas-based guitarist Dave Millsap, known for his Grammy-nominated work and performances with music legends, brings his bluesy charm to the stage. At 7:30 PM, Moksi delivers a unique mix of soul, folk, blues, and jazz. Enjoy a night of great tunes from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Ruidoso!
Join Noisy Water Winery in Midtown Ruidoso on Thursday, November 14th, at 6 p.m. for a hands-on charcuterie board workshop. Enjoy a glass of wine, expert instruction, and take home your personalized creation. Perfect for impressing guests this holiday season! Reserve your spot today for an evening of culinary elegance and creativity.
Join Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside on November 13, 2024, for an evening with Freeman DeJongh and Tyler Jones. Starting at 6:00 PM, Tyler Jones sets the tone, followed by Freeman DeJongh at 7:00 PM, whose folk and western music captures the essence of Idaho's mountains. Freeman’s multi-instrumental performances blend folk, jazz, psychedelic, and country styles, creating an intimate and atmospheric musical experience.
Join Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside on November 10, 2024, for a night with SIRSY, a dynamic singer-songwriter rock band known for their soulful vocals and energetic performances. With 17 years of touring and music featured on "Shameless," SIRSY delivers a show filled with powerful vocals, heartfelt stories, and infectious energy. Don’t miss this unique, two-piece band that sounds like a full ensemble from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM!
Ruidoso locals, Doso Dirtbag's high-energy show comprises a killer mix of mountain country/punk/blues and Irish music. Come join them as they perform live at Downshift Brewing Company Riverside on Saturday, November 9, 2024.
Experience an adrenaline-pumping night of boxing at Inn of the Mountain Gods on November 9, 6:30-10:00 PM! Watch top fighters clash in thrilling bouts, showcasing skill, power, and heart. Feel the electric atmosphere as champions are crowned. Whether you're a boxing aficionado or new fan, this event promises unforgettable action. Don't miss this epic showdown!
Join Downshift Brewing Company - Hidden Tap on November 9, 2024, for an evening with Justin Howl, an internationally touring blues and roots artist from Chicago. Known for his "strong" vocals and "intelligent" songwriting, Howl’s music captivates audiences. Enjoy his soulful blend of guitar and harmonica from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Don’t miss this unique musical experience!
Join the Chili Cook Off Fundraiser on November 9th at 2:00 PM at Jack’s Backstage! Support Ruidoso's fire and flood victims, with proceeds going to the Community Foundation of Lincoln County. Taste, vote, and enjoy local chili while making a difference. Sponsored by ROD 2 Automotive, LLC, Scorpion Tattoos, and Postal Annex. Don’t miss this delicious and charitable event!
Calling all beer nerds! Join the fun at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap location on Friday, November 8th, at 6 PM for "Are You Smarter Than a Beertender?" - Trivia Night! Gather your friends and form teams of up to 4 people for a fun-filled evening. Show up at 6 PM, and the trivia fun will begin at 6:30. Test your knowledge and see if you can outsmart our beertenders!
Don't miss this epic night at Downshift Riverside! Grammy-nominated Dave Millsap brings soulful Texas blues-rock at 5:00 PM, followed by SPiVEY's genre-bending sonic journey at 7:30 PM. From Millsap's star-studded experience to SPiVEY's innovative one-man soundscapes, it's a musical adventure you won't forget. Two unique acts, one unforgettable evening!
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
Get ready for a night of laughter as Alex Reymundo brings his "It's The Tequila Talking" Comedy Tour to The Cantina at Billy the Kid Casino on Friday, November 2, 2024. Enjoy Alex's signature humor and storytelling, followed by a special. Buy Tickets >>
Experience the raw energy of High Desert Country Blues with CW Ayon at Downshift Brewing's Hidden Tap! November 2, 6:00-9:00 PM. Immerse yourself in foot-stomping rhythms and soulful storytelling as CW delivers original tunes that capture the essence of the Southwest. Pair great music with craft brews for an unforgettable night.
Don't miss this lively annual community Day of the Dead celebration in Lincoln, NM. Come and join the fun with live music, dance, family activities, face painting, altar offerings, arts and crafts, and food and drink. This community event is free to the public.
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