Mardi Gras in the Mountains brings Cajun tradition to Red River

When the fictional Wild Tchoupitoulas beast makes its way down Main Street, towering eight feet tall and carrying the worries of Red River locals and visitors, it’s clear Mardi Gras in the Mountains has officially begun.

From Thursday, Feb. 27, to Tuesday, March 4, this small New Mexico ski town will once again transform into a place full of Cajun music and colorful beads. What started as a collaboration between a New Orleans tour company and the Red River Chamber of Commerce in 1992 has evolved into a beloved six-day tradition, drawing thousands from across the Southwest and the Gulf Coast.

“We like having festivals here, we like throwing parties, and we like showing people a good time,” said Ron Weathers, a board member of the Rex Foundation, which now oversees the event.

Mardi Gras in the Mountains brings Cajun tradition to Red River

Red River’s population of just 480 residents swells as the event draws two distinct crowds: an early wave from New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma, followed by visitors from Louisiana and Mississippi once Mardi Gras break begins in their schools.

The festivities kick off Thursday night with the burning of the Wild Tchoupitoulas, a fictional creature inspired by Louisiana folklore but with a New Mexico twist.

“We turn it into something where we burn all of our troubles away, like we do at festivals in New Mexico, like Zozobra,” said Weathers.

Festival-goers write their troubles on slips of paper, place them inside the Tchoupitoulas and watch them go up in flames outside the Motherlode Saloon, setting the tone for a week of celebration.

Throughout the week, the town comes alive with nightly parties, live music from Grammy-winning Cajun musicians and events tailored to all ages. Saturday will feature a parade with about 10 locally crafted floats from community groups, known as “krewes.”

“We used to call it the smallest but most fun Mardi Gras parade,” Weathers said.

The Grand Ball on Saturday, March 1, offers a seafood boil, live music and a costume contest, while Sunday, March 2, night shifts the focus to the youngest attendees with a children’s ball filled with games and activities.

The Rex Foundation, formed by past Mardi Gras “Rexes” – individuals recognized for their outstanding volunteerism – channels a portion of the proceeds into scholarships for local students.

“It’s rewarding to know we’re showing people a good time while also enriching young lives through scholarships,” Weathers said.

Most events are free, aside from the $25 Grand Ball ticket, which covers food, music and plenty of beads. Bars around town host their own celebrations, often with cover charges, but no town-wide admission fee exists.

As Weathers said, the festival’s success lies in its community effort. “People look forward to this all year. On their way out, they’re already booking for next year.”