Red River has it all! For a mountain town of fewer than 500 residents, and one that is slowly reopening after pandemic lockdowns, Red River, New Mexico, always seems to have something going on.
“From bluegrass festivals to classic car shows to Oktoberfest, the residents of this former mining town love to have fun!” the town’s chamber of commerce says online.
Located on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, Red River also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure and has gained a well-deserved spot on many families’ annual vacation calendar.
With multiple events every month, the chamber narrowed things down to a list of 11 of the best events to help you plan your next trip to Northern New Mexico. Here’s just a few summer events to stay tuned for in 2022 if they’re still locked down this year.
Red River Ski & Summer Area has been family-owned for more than 50 years and has great outdoor activities for the whole family. Before the pandemic lockdowns of 2020 and 2021, summer in Red River usually kicked off in May at Bacon and Brews, with tastings of beverages from breweries and wineries all over New Mexico, including Red River Brewing Company, the town’s very own brewer. The two-day event includes games, music, dancing and offerings from local creatives.
June cars and art
All things being equal, if COVID-safety protocols allow, early June may see the return of the Red River Classic Car Show, an annual car show held at Brandenburg Park. You’ll see more than 100 cars including classics, antique trucks, lowriders, hot rods and show cars. In prior years, raffles, a sock hop, a brilliant neon nighttime parade, live ’60s-’70s music, dancing, and games for children, made this a popular, and hoppin,’ one-day event. There was an admission fee for adults, but the event was free for kids.
Every summer on Father’s Day weekend, Red River hosts its annual Art and Wine Festival in Brandenburg Park. More than 50 vendors from around New Mexico typically flock to the mountain town to share their wine and spirits. The three-day event also features photography, art and pottery, a silent and live auction, a cookout, and food tents. Entertainment for the kiddos includes things like face-painting, spin art, chalk drawing, and more.
For more, check out redriver.org or contact April Ralph, aralph@redriver.org or 719-221-2391.