Nestled in Northern New Mexico, Red River offers a diverse range of activities, catering to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation. From thrilling snow sports to tranquil trout fishing and exhilarating ATV riding, Red River provides a perfect escape. The picturesque town was founded in the late 19th century as a booming mining town for silver and gold. As the minding dwindled the town survived as a summer getaway from the heat. Situated at 8,671ft above sea level, this mountain town only covers one square mile yet is sure to entertain with its multiple events and festivals that take place throughout the year. 

Need more of a reason to visit? In a recent 2023 USA Today poll, ski enthusiasts voted Red River as the “Best Ski Town in North America” for the second time! Don’t miss out— Red River offers excitement all year long.

Top 3 Red River Events in New Mexico

1. Aspencade
2. Red River’s 8750’ BBQ and Music Festival
3. Red River’s Songwriters Festival

Aspencade

Scheduled to happen in the Fall when the aspens begin showing off their brilliant yellow colors, this festival showcases music and crafts from all over New Mexico and the southwest. You can enjoy perusing the multiple vendor booths as live music fills your soul or head on over to the main stage at Brandenburg Park. Handmade goods at the craft fair include jewelry, home furnishings, pottery, art, food and more. Leashed dogs are always allowed at the craft fair and park concerts. Every evening there is a private show at the Motherlode Saloon, one of the southwests’ greatest honky-tonks. Pack your dancing boots and head up to the mountains the last weekend of September for Aspencade! 

Red River’s 8750’ BBQ and Music Festival

Be sure to mark your calendars every August to enjoy cookoffs, live music and more! 8750’ kicks off on Friday night with music at Bitter Creek Ranch and continues through the weekend. Music acts will never overlap so you don’t have to miss out on hearing your favorite artist. Indulge in BBQ and chile cookoff competitions from the best cooks in the Southwest. With large cash prizes as well as bragging rights you know these chefs are grilling up their best brisket, chicken, and ribs as well as their best red chile and green chile dishes. Each evening finishes the day at Motherlode Saloon outdoor stage as you digest and relax amongst the stars. 

Red River’s Songwriters Festival

Spending a few days amongst the snowcapped peaks and your favorite singers and songwriters is sure to pull ample inspiration for writing your next great hit. This festival has been happening every February for the last 10+ years and draws an intimate crowd as to ensure everyone really gets to know the other songwriters. There are late night jam sessions, morning ski runs and plenty of time to work with the other great songwriters to perfect your songwriting technique. The grand finale on the third day is a performance by the founding members. Everyone leaves feeling full of love, new friendships, and creativity. Space is limited to be sure to grab your ticket early!

What will you be doing in Red River this year? There are many more events taking place throughout the year including Oktoberfest, Mardi Gras, Red River Wine and Food Festival, as well as singe day events and concerts. Lodging in Red River is easy to find from RV parks to cabins, condos, and camping.

Located just 75 minutes outside of Red River is our New Mexico whitewater rafting headquarters on the Rio Grande. Spend a half, full or multi-day out on the river with us and enjoy even more of what beautiful northern New Mexico has to offer! Whether navigating thrilling rapids on the Rio Grande Racecourse or leisurely enjoying a family float along the scenic Rio Grande, our adventures provide a perfect complement to the vibrant events in Red River.