Ruidoso Runfest returns to Fort Stanton in New Mexico on September 18th and 19th for its second edition. This event is a weekend of running, music, food trucks, and the Downshift Brewing Company beer garden hosted by the Village of Ruidoso Parks & Recreation department. Race morning will find participants gathering at Wingfield Park where the Pizza Hut 5K and Kids 1K fun run start. The atmosphere on race day is lively with runners enjoying a scenic route through Fort Stanton's natural beauty. Temperatures are expected to be mild, ranging from about 12°C to 25°C, providing comfortable conditions for all participants. The Ruidoso Runfest has a rich history of community support and participation. This year marks the seventh running of both the Ruidoso Marathon and Half Marathon, which have been part of local tradition since their inception. The Bluebird Running Co. 47K/50K is also in its second year, offering true ultra-distance runners an opportunity to complete New Mexico's only premier road 50K. The course for the Ruidoso Runfest covers a variety of terrains and surfaces. Participants will run on paved roads through scenic areas surrounding Fort Stanton. The race layout includes notable features such as gradual elevation changes, ensuring a challenging yet rewarding experience. Special attention is given to aid stations positioned along the route for hydration and nutrition. Weather conditions are perfect with an average temperature of 18°C, minimum temperatures around 12°C, maximums at about 25°C, all feeling quite comfortable due to low humidity levels (54%) and steady winds averaging 7.8 mph, making it ideal running weather.
To register, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2026/94941/ruidoso-runfest. Early bird pricing is available until March 31st for the Kids Run and Pizza Hut 5K at $10 each, with fees increasing to $12 and $27 respectively after April 1st up to September 18th. Packet pickup will be held on Friday from 2 pm to 6 pm at Wingfield Park. On race day, runners must arrive between 5 am and 6:45 am for the Marathon, Half-marathon, and 47/50K events. Bring your ID and any required documentation to ensure a smooth check-in. The start location is conveniently situated on Main Street in Fort Stanton. Age requirements apply with specific guidelines ensuring all participants meet health criteria. First-timers should arrive prepared with proper gear and shoes suitable for the terrain, as well as hydration supplies if planning to participate virtually. The Ruidoso Runfest offers a unique opportunity to support local charities while enjoying beautiful New Mexico landscapes. With its family-friendly events and community atmosphere, this race is worth attending for both seasoned runners and newcomers alike.
Races Offered
Kids 1K Run
Sep 18, 2026
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Distance —
1km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:00
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$12.87
Pizza Hut 5K
Sep 18, 2026
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Distance —
5km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:00
sell
$27.95
Ruidoso Half Marathon
Sep 18, 2026
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Distance —
21km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:00
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$72.13
Ruidoso Marathon
Sep 18, 2026
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Distance —
42km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:00
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$82.91
Virtual 5k
Sep 18, 2026
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Distance —
5km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:00
sell
$34.42
Virtual Half Marathon
Sep 18, 2026
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Distance —
21km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:00
sell
$72.13
Virtual Marathon
Sep 18, 2026
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Distance —
42km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:00
sell
$88.29
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Fort Stanton.
thermostatTemperature
11.8° / 25.0°
wb_sunnyFeels like
9.9° / 22.0°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
11h 26m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
0.8 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
7.8 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
54.4%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:45
nightlight
Sunset
19:07
About Fort Stanton
Learn more about the host city, Fort Stanton.
Fort Stanton was a United States Army fort near Lincoln, New Mexico.
Use the promo code below during registration to save on entry fees.
15% OFF
Promo codeRG15
*Promo codes are collected from publicly available sources. We are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any brand listed. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. Offers may expire or change without notice.
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