There are plenty of annual festivals in Ruidoso, NM, all of which are characterized by celebratory fun. There is something for everyone here, from live music to holiday cheer. Be sure and check out the events calendar and Ruidoso's many other annual events, too!

MAY

Smokey Bear Days

May 2024 -- Started in 2004 to celebrate Smokey’s 60th birthday, Smokey Bear Days became an annual 2-day event held in May. Their mission is to promote the fire prevention message and educate visitors to the Capitan area about the dangers of unwanted, human-caused wildfires. After the 2019 event, staff decided to move the celebration to every 5 years instead of an annual event. The next Smokey Bear Days is scheduled for 2024.

JUNE

Brewdoso

June 18, 2022 -- Experience local breweries, wineries, and live music at Brewdoso, featuring craft beers and wine from around the Land of Enchantment. This event is the first of its kind in Ruidoso, focusing on the authentic craft culture of New Mexico. The cool mountains offer the best place to enjoy the state's finest beer, wine, spirits, and fun!

JULY

Ruidoso Art Festival

July 22 - 24, 2022 -- Over 100 of the nation’s most talented artists will be set up at the Ruidoso Convention Center showcasing a broad spectrum of mediums including sculpture, photography, glass, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, mixed media and more!

AUGUST

Zia Festival

August 5 - 7, 2022 -- As one of Ruidoso Downs Race Track's many exciting summer events, the Zia Festival celebrates the Land of Enchantment by bringing local artists, food, and culture together for a spectacular weekend.

City Bank Chile The Kid Festival

August 12 - 14, 2022 -- Enjoy New Mexico crafted beer and wine in the mountains of Southern New Mexico. Hatch Green Chile roasting and local vendors will all be on hand during this special event. Enjoy live music Friday and Saturday inside the tent, immediately following the daily races at Ruidoso Downs Race Track.

OCTOBER

Aspenfest

October 1, 2022 -- Aspenfest kicks off fall in Ruidoso with a parade through Midtown Ruidoso, followed by an art and crafts fair, a rod run and car show, and the New Mexico State Open Chili Cook-Off. Enjoy a glass of local craft beer, wine, or spirits while you stroll and shop with local vendors.

Ruidoso Oktoberfest

October 21 - 22, 2022 --  Based on the German Oktoberfest, Ruidoso celebrates with great food, beer, music, arts and crafts and a kinderhall. “Dressing for the occasion” is encouraged, but having a good time is promised! The 2022 event will be held at the Ruidoso Convention Center.

DECEMBER

Festival of Lights

December 3, 2022-- Beautifully lit and fantastically festive, the Festival of Lights - Parade of Lights starts at 5:30 pm in Midtown. Everyone is encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots. So, bring out the family for an evening of twinkling lights, hot chocolate, and togetherness in the Winter Wonderland of Ruidoso.