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🎭 Red River’s Mardi Gras in the Mountains 2026 will run from February 12–17, 2026, with the theme “Masquerade.” Expect dazzling masks, colorful parades, Cajun music, and six days of mountain-town revelry.

📅 Key Details

Dates: February 12 – 17, 2026

Theme: Masquerade 🎭✨

Location: Red River, New Mexico — nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

🎉 Festival Highlights

Parades on Main Street 🚗🎶

Floats, costumes, beads, and music fill the snowy streets.

Two major parades: Thursday night kickoff and Saturday’s grand spectacle.

Balls & Parties 💃🕺

Multiple themed balls hosted by local krewes.

Fat Tuesday Ball closes the festival with dancing and live music.

Cajun Flavor in the Mountains 🦞🍲

Authentic Cajun feasts and drink contests.

Louisiana musicians bring zydeco and Cajun rhythms to Red River.

Family-Friendly Fun 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Children’s Ball and daytime activities ensure all ages can join.

Costume contests and community events throughout town.

👑 The Krewes

Local and visiting krewes keep the spirit alive:

Party Krewe 🎉 — lively and welcoming.

Krewe de VooDoo 🪄 — steeped in tradition.

Red River Brew Krewe 🍺 — craft beer enthusiasts.

Krewe Déjà Vu 🔄 — playful and fresh.

Totally High Crew (THC) 🌄 — laid-back mountain vibes.

Kowboy Krewe 🤠 — charitable and community-focused.

Krewe des Pas Bon 🎭 — Louisiana visitors bringing authentic Mardi Gras flair.

🌟 Why It’s Special

Started in 1992 by the Red River Chamber of Commerce, now sponsored by the Rex Foundation.

Unique blend: New Orleans-style Mardi Gras meets snowy mountain adventure.

Six days of nonstop fun: Parades, balls, feasts, and live music across town.

⚠️ Tips for Visitors

❄️ Weather: Snowy and cold — pack warm layers and waterproof boots.

🏨 Lodging: Book early; cabins and inns fill quickly during Mardi Gras week.

🚗 Parking: Arrive early for parades; Main Street gets crowded.

🎟️ Tickets: Some events (like feasts and balls) require advance purchase.