Free Meetups in Alamogordo: Poetry, Journaling and UFOs

If you are new to Alamogordo and wondering how to meet people, start with the free monthly meetups. Right now you can read poetry at Otero ArtSpace on the first and third Sundays, bring your planner or journal to a meetup on the third Thursday, and talk flying saucers over coffee on the third Saturday. Here are the dates, places and what to expect for each one.

What free meetups are there in Alamogordo?

These are regular, recurring groups that list themselves on the Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce community calendar and in KZZX Your Country 105.3's community announcements. Dates are for the rest of 2026.

Times and places can change, so check the listing before you go.

What is Gordo Poetry?

Gordo Poetry is an open poetry reading for all ages and every skill level. You can read your own poems or share a favorite poet's work, or just sit back and listen. The group meets on the first and third Sunday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at Otero ArtSpace, the historic building at 12th Street and Indiana Avenue, and it is always free, with refreshments.

The organizers describe it as a welcoming group for people from every walk of life and a good way to make friends. If you have never read out loud before, this is a gentle place to try.

What happens at the Pen & Planner Meetup?

If you love pens and inks, planners, journaling, stationery, scrapbooking or crafting, this one is for you. Bring whatever you are working on and work on it alongside friendly, like-minded people. There is no agenda and no pressure.

It meets on the third Thursday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at Live Well Mattress, 811 E. 1st St., Suite B. It is free and open to ages 13 to 99.

Is there really a UFO group in Alamogordo?

Yes, and it fits right in here between White Sands, the Space Museum and Roswell up the road. Coffee Cups & Flying Saucers is the Alamogordo chapter of New Mexico's Mutual UFO Network, known as MUFON. The group talks about flying saucers, UFOs, local sightings and other unexplained experiences.

Meetings are on the third Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. at Otero Arts, with doors opening at 10:45 a.m. They are free and open to the public, MUFON membership is never required, and donations are appreciated. The group has already posted its 2027 dates, starting January 16.

Where else can I meet people in Alamogordo?

• Country dance lessons: Learn the two-step and line dancing every Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at VFW Post 7686, 700 Highway 70 W, according to a KZZX community announcement. Lessons are open to VFW members and their guests, all levels are welcome, the class is free, and 5 dollar donations are encouraged to support the post.
• Coffee and Connections: The Chamber's morning networking coffee meets on the second Friday of the month at 8 a.m. at the Ink Well Innovation Center, 314 E. 9th St. It is a nice way for new business owners and professionals to meet local leaders.
• Stargazing: The Space Museum's Astronomy League meets monthly and welcomes beginners. My Astronomy League meeting post has the details.
• Art workshops: Otero Arts runs free workshops and First Friday exhibits. See my Otero Arts November guide.
• Volunteering: Giving back is one of the fastest ways to feel at home. My volunteer guide lists places that need help.

What does this mean for people moving to Alamogordo?

One of the questions I hear most from newcomers, especially military spouses arriving with Holloman, is "How do I make friends here?" Small groups like these are the answer. You show up once, you see the same friendly faces next month, and before long you are part of the community. If you are planning a move, my moving to Alamogordo guide has more on settling in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meetup details come from the Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce community calendar and KZZX Your Country 105.3's public service announcements, checked 7 November 2026.