RED RIVER, N.M. (KRQE) – Red River will be bringing back its Mayfest in the Mountains this year, and the town says it has no plans to bring back its official bike rally. After a shooting between biker gangs in 2023, the town decided to rebrand its annual Memorial Day celebration.
Last year, the town hosted its first Mayfest in the Mountains, with many businesses saying they saw a drop in sales. The mayor said at the time that she understood the frustration and hoped the drop in revenue was just growing pains.
Last year’s survey revealed the event had an overall positive response. “Retail stores did well, bars, restaurants, and hotels not so much…”I think everyone was pleased with veteran focus I can see us moving forward that way and trying to build on that,” said Red River Mayor Linda Calhoun in 2024.
13,000 people attended last year, compared to 29,000 in 2023. This year’s Mayfest in the Mountains will feature a wall of honor display, a cornhole tournament, live music, and other events for Memorial Day Weekend. Officials said a few bars around the town may have their own bike rallies, similar to last year.