Red River Music Festival 2025: Your Insider’s Guide to the 8750' Festival and Where to Stay
If you’re looking for one summer experience that delivers unforgettable live music, authentic New Mexico BBQ, and a mountain town full of charm—Red River’s 8750’ Music Festival is it. This guide will help you get the most from your trip, from ticket tips to insider lodging advice that puts you close to the action without sacrificing comfort.
What Is the Red River Music 8750’ Festival?
The 8750’ Festival is Red River’s signature summer event, named for the town’s elevation—8,750 feet above sea level. Held August 14–17, 2025, This three-day festival fuses live music with spirited BBQ competitions, drawing music lovers, pitmasters, and curious travelers alike. The competition features three main categories: traditional BBQ, red chili, and green chile. Visitors can purchase tasting wristbands to sample competition entries and even vote in the “People’s Choice” award category each day.
According to RedRiver.org, the event features national touring acts, local favorites, food vendors, and a family-friendly environment in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The combination of high-altitude atmosphere, intimate performances, and culinary showcases creates a unique small-town-meets-big-sound experience.
In 2023, the Red River Music Festival welcomed more than 5,000 attendees across three days (New Mexico Tourism Department), contributing an estimated $500,000 in local economic activity through lodging, dining, and retail.
Local Red River businesses report a 35% revenue spike during festival weekend compared to the previous two weeks of August (Red River Chamber of Commerce, 2023).
Beyond the music, the festival celebrates Red River’s culture and community. As festival organizer Casey Trujillo told New Mexico Music Monthly in 2024, “It’s not just about the headliners—it’s about the families who grill together, the artists who return every year, and the mountains that echo every note.”
Who’s Playing in 2025? Red River Music Festival Lineup Highlights
This year’s 8750’ Music Festival brings a stacked lineup of country, Americana, and Southwest talent to Red River. Whether you’re into red-dirt legends or rising local stars, 2025 is set to deliver unforgettable sets across four days.
Here are just a few of the top acts you’ll catch this year:
- Ray Wylie Hubbard
- Jason Boland & The Stragglers
- Cody Canada & The Departed
- The Great Divide
- Bri Bagwell
- Josh Grider
- Kat Hasty
- Adam Hood
🔥 With multiple stages, nightly saloon sets, and over two dozen artists, this year’s Red River Music Festival is one for the books.
👉 Check out the full schedule and lineup at 8750Festival.com
📌 Tip: Follow the 8750 Festival site and @redrivermusicnm on Instagram for lineup drops and VIP updates.
Planning Your Trip: Travel, Timing & Tickets
Flying in for the Red River Music Festival? The closest airports are Taos (1.5 hours), Santa Fe (2.5 hours), and Albuquerque (3 hours). Rental cars are available at all three, and shuttle services typically run from Albuquerque and Santa Fe directly to Red River during the festival weekend.
Pro tip: Arrive by Thursday morning to acclimate to the altitude and skip the Friday traffic. You’ll thank yourself when the music starts.
🎟️ Tickets for the 2025 8750’ Festival include access to all concerts at all venues (Motherlode Saloon is 21+) and two full meals with your weekend pass.
- 3-Day Pass: $209 + tax/fees
- Single-day and event-specific tickets will be released closer to the event.
💬 “We always aim for a small-town feel with big-stage perks,” says Emma Rayes, the festival’s hospitality coordinator. “Our goal is to give you more than a show—we want to give you a story to take home.”
👉 For current ticket availability and updates, visit 8750Festival.com
Festival Daily Schedule Preview:
Thursday, August 14:
- 2:00-6:00 PM: Check-in at Lifts West
- 4:00-7:00 PM: Early BBQ sampling at Brandenburg Park
- 7:00-10:00 PM: Kickoff concert at Bitter Creek Ranch
Friday, August 15:
- 10:00 AM-12:00 PM: Acoustic performances at Brandenburg Park
- 12:00-5:00 PM: Main stage performances & BBQ competition
- 7:00-11:00 PM: Evening concerts at multiple venues
Saturday, August 16:
- 10:00 AM-12:00 PM: Morning sessions at the Motherlode Saloon
- 12:00-5:00 PM: Main festival events, all venues
- 6:00 PM: BBQ competition awards ceremony
- 7:00-11:00 PM: Headliner performances
Sunday, August 17:
- 9:00-11:00 AM: Farewell acoustic brunch sessions
- 11:00 AM-2:00 PM: Festival wind-down activities
Where to Stay: Why Lifts West is the Red River Music Festival Fan’s Favorite
Want lodging that puts you steps from the action without sacrificing peace and comfort? Lifts West Red River NM is your go-to.
Unlike small motels or noisy party rentals, Lifts West offers:
- Condo-style lodging with full kitchens, living rooms, and private balconies
- Suite options for couples, families, and friend groups
- Elevator access, parking, and an on-site heated pool
- A walkable location to festival venues, restaurants, and shops
💡 Why this matters: In a high-altitude environment, minimizing travel and maximizing rest is key. Lifts West gives you both.
📍 Check availability at Lifts West before summer bookings fill up.
Festival Pro Tips: From Local Insight to Last-Minute Hacks
Whether this is your first time at the 8750’ Festival or your tenth, planning ahead helps you enjoy every moment.
What to Pack
☀️ For Daytime:
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) — High elevation means 25% stronger UV rays than at sea level
- Sunglasses & hat — Protect your eyes and face in the mountain sun
- Light, breathable clothing — For warm days (70s-80s°F)
- Reusable water bottle — Stay hydrated in the dry mountain air
🌙 For Evening:
- Warm jacket — Temperatures can drop 30+ degrees after sunset
- Light gloves & beanie — For night shows when temps can reach the 40s
- Portable charger — Between photos, maps, and tickets, your phone will be working hard
Insider Advice
- Book your lodging 90 days out — earlier if you want Lifts West.
- Don’t skip Friday night sets — they often have surprise guests.
- Locals love Sunday morning acoustic sessions near the community house lawn.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Waiting too long for dinner—local restaurants get packed.
- Skipping rest days—plan a mellow morning or spa stop Monday before heading home.
- Overpacking—Red River is casual and walkable. Leave the extras behind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About The Red River Music Festival in 2025
Can I attend for just one day?**
Yes, single-day passes are available for $45 and perfect for short stays.
Are there discounts for children or seniors?**
Yes, children under 12 enter free with a paying adult. Seniors (65+) receive a 15% discount.
What's the weather like in August?
Expect warm days (70s–80s°F) and cool nights (40s–50s°F). Dress in layers.
Is parking available near the festival?
Parking is limited. Booking walkable lodging like Lifts West saves you hassle.
How do I adjust to the high altitude?
Arrive a day early if possible, stay hydrated, limit alcohol initially, and consider speaking with your doctor about altitude medication if you’re concerned.
Can I bring my kids to the festival?
Absolutely. The 8750′ Festival is family-friendly with all-ages performances and food options.
Are pets allowed at the festival?
Pets are not allowed inside most festival areas. Some lodging options are pet-friendly.
Final Thoughts + Where to Book
The Red River Music Festival isn’t just about the music—it’s about memories. From mountaintop sunsets to sing-alongs under the stars, it’s one of New Mexico’s most unique summer experiences.
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