Christmas in New Mexico 2019 – Events, Festivals & More

The holidays are almost here—that means Christmas festivities, delicious food, and lots to do around New Mexico. Use our guide to find the best Christmas events, holiday dining options, and so much more in and around Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort in Mescalero.

Don’t be a scrooge—check out what you can do this holiday season in New Mexico!

The Top New Mexico Christmas Events

Ruidoso Christmas Jubilee | Friday, November 8th — Sunday, November 10th

Get into the holiday spirit at this year’s Ruidoso Christmas Jubilee at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Season’s tidings and holiday festivities will be on full display at this Ruidoso Christmas event. Local crafters and artisans will sell gifts, decorations, and other local goods. Kids will have a chance to visit Santa, including fun crafts and stories.

The fun runs from Friday, November 8th – Sunday, November 10th.

• 12 p.m. — 5 p.m. Friday, November 8th
• 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. Saturday, November 9th
• 10 a.m. — 3 p.m. Sunday, November 10th

Admission is $2 per person. Ages 12 and under are free.

Grindstone Stables Sleigh Rides | Thanksgiving Day — January 4th, 2020

Jingle all the way through Ruidoso’s Upper Canyon during a sleigh ride at Grindstone Stables. These sleigh rides are perfect for all ages, with sleighs adorned with jingle bells and beautiful draft horses that pull you through Ruidoso’s oldest areas. Snow or no snow, these sleigh rides are sure to delight! Each sleigh ride is 30 minutes, and rides depart every day from Thanksgiving through January at 5:30 p.m. Rides are $20 per adult and $10 per child 12 and under. Reservations are recommended. Call (575) 257-2241 for more information.

Inn of the Mountain Gods Christmas Tree Lighting | Sunday, December 1st

The Christmas season officially begins in Mescalero, New Mexico with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Inn of the Mountain Gods. All are welcome to enjoy this free holiday event that offers festive activities for the entire family. The holiday fun begins at 1 pm with a Barnes & Noble pop-up shop and continues with cookies and hot cocoa, a free screening of A Charlie Brown Christmas, carolers, and photos with Santa. The festive evening ends at 6 pm as the Inn of the Mountain Gods Christmas tree is illuminated with sparkling lights.

Christmas in the Park | Thursday, December 5th

All ages will have a jolly time when they visit Schoolhouse Park in Ruidoso on November 29th for Christmas in the Park. This classic Ruidoso festival will include Christmas carolers, festive music, and sleigh rides, as Christmas lights sparkle throughout the park. And don’t miss out on visiting the big man himself—Santa Claus! The fun is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, December 5th.

Ruidoso Festival of Lights Parade | Saturday, December 7th

Cars covered in glowing lights and Christmas cheer spread across the street, the Ruidoso Festival of Lights Parade is a must-experience Christmas event in Ruidoso. From 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., watch as festive floats, marchers, and more bring holiday jubilee to Ruidoso. The parade will start on the corner of Sudderth/Mechem and wind through Midtown before ending at the Ruidoso Chamber of Commerce.

The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater | Saturday, December 21st & Sunday, December 22nd

Enjoy a Christmas classic when you purchase your tickets to The Nutcracker at Spencer Theater. Located in Alto, NM—just minutes from Ruidoso—Spencer Theater will feature the Dali’ Ballet Company’s rendition of this holiday classic. Not only will the performances leave you awestruck, but the production—including a Christmas tree that grows 40 feet—is equally as spectacular. The Nutcracker will run for two nights at Spencer Theater: Saturday, December 21st at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, December 22nd at 2 p.m. Contact (575) 336-4800 for tickets.

Take a peek at the Inn of the Mountain Gods entertainment schedule.

New Mexico Holiday Dining Options

Wendell’s Thanksgiving Brunch

Time: 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Visit Wendell’s Steak & Seafood at Inn of the Mountain Gods and enjoy a full spread of traditional Thanksgiving dishes. Menu options include succulent carved options like Lavender Brined Roasted Turkey, Prime Rib of Roast Beef, Braised Beef Short Ribs, and Seared King Salmon. This Thanksgiving feast will also have a raw bar, salads, soup, and an omelet station. Cost per person is $90. Reservations are strongly recommended. Call (575) 464-7842 to make your reservations.

Cozy New Mexico Hotel Rooms for the Holidays

Inn of the Mountain Gods’ warm and cozy lodging is perfect for a holiday getaway. Enjoy the upscale features and amenities of a resort with the comforts of home. Our resort includes spacious rooms and suites, fit for any occasion.

Each of our accommodations boasts impeccable views of the mountains and lush forests surrounding the resort.

Presidential Suite: Two private balconies; king bed; a whirlpool tub; living area; dining area; kitchenette; multiple TVs

Deluxe Suite: King bed; private balcony; a whirlpool tub; multiple TVs; living area with queen-sized sleeper sofa

Royal Suite: King bed; private balcony; a whirlpool tub; living area with queen-sized sleeper sofa; multiple TVs; dining area

Superior Room: One king bed or two queen beds; flat-screen TV; coffee maker; private balcony

Luxury Room: Private balcony; two queen beds or one king bed; queen-sized sleeper sofa; flat-screen TV; coffee maker

Standard Room: One king bed or two queen beds; flat-screen TV; coffee maker

Don’t miss Inn of the Mountain God’s New Mexico hotel deals!