something for everyone

Ruidoso parks offer a variety of venues to host special events from picnics to concerts, weddings to birthday parties, family reunions and corporate events. In addition, we have great venues for sporting tournaments, including soccer fields, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and softball/baseball fields.

The Parks & Rec Department also provides the boating permits along with a complete list of regulations that are necessary to enjoy water recreation in Ruidoso rivers and lakes including the Grindstone Lake and Recreation Area. Boating permits can be obtained by contacting Parks & Rec at 575-257-5030.

All New Mexico Paddlecraft operators (kayaks, canoes, rafts) are highly encouraged to take the Free NASBLA-Approved online paddlesports safety course. Like in most states, paddle craft is less than 5% of the vessels involved in boat accidents, but lack of knowledge by the operator and also not wearing a life jacket have them contribute to a much larger percentage of the total fatalities.

The course can be found at: www.BOATERexam.com/paddling/. 

For refunds, please contact 575-257-5030.

Event Permits & Applications

Use this section to access required permits, applications, and supporting documents for planning events in the Village of Ruidoso.

  • Planning a public event in Ruidoso may require an approved Special Event Permit. This includes organized events held on public property, as well as events that impact traffic, include vendors, amplified sound, or require Village services.

    Applications must be submitted at least 30 days prior to the event date. Approval is not guaranteed.

  • Events that include food vendors or mobile food vehicles must comply with Village and state safety requirements.

    Food trucks are required to complete a pre-inspection prior to participating in permitted events.

  • Events utilizing a stage provided by the Village of Ruidoso must complete a Stage Rental Agreement prior to the event.

    Stage availability is limited and subject to approval.