Where to Catch Live Music and Fun Events in Red River This Month

If you’re heading to Red River this month, you picked a great time to visit. The summer season is buzzing with live music, delicious food, small-town charm, and some truly one-of-a-kind events you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re here for a quick weekend escape or a week-long mountain getaway, here’s what’s going on in and around Red River this August.

Red River’s 8750 BBQ & Music Festival (August 14–17)

Let’s start with a local favorite. The 8750 Festival is one of Red River’s signature summer events. Named for the town’s elevation (yep, we’re at 8,750 feet above sea level), this four-day celebration brings together great music, incredible BBQ, and just the right amount of small-town fun.

Expect live performances in places like Brandenburg Park and the iconic Motherlode Saloon, plus cook-offs featuring ribs, brisket, green chile, and red chile recipes. There’s even a People’s Choice award, so bring your appetite and be ready to vote.

Eagle Nest Balloon Fest (August 16 – early morning)

This one’s for the early risers. Just a short drive from Red River, Eagle Nest hosts a gorgeous hot air balloon launch at sunrise. Picture colorful balloons rising over the lake and mountains, with coffee in hand and cool morning air on your face. Worth setting an alarm for? Definitely.

Pro tip: Get there early, and bring your camera. This is one of those “postcard moment” events you’ll want to remember.

Eagle Nest Green Chile Cheezeburger Contest (August 16 – later that day)

After the balloons, stick around in Eagle Nest for something totally different. The Green Chile Cheezeburger Contest is a fun and flavorful showdown where local cooks and restaurants compete to see who can build the best burger in town.

You’ll sample burgers, vote for your favorite, and leave wondering why this contest isn’t happening every weekend. It’s casual, it’s delicious, and it’s full of local flavor in every way.

Taos Mountain Wellness Festival (August 15–17)

Looking for a little balance with your summer fun? The Taos Mountain Wellness Festival (formerly the Taos Yoga Festival) offers a peaceful break from the BBQ and live shows.

With yoga sessions, guided hikes, wellness talks, and holistic vendors, it’s the perfect way to reset and recharge while still soaking up those mountain views. Whether you’re a longtime yogi or just looking for a slower pace, this festival has a good vibe all around.

Concert in the Park: Jimmy Stadler & Max Gomez (August 16 at 6 PM)

Grab a lawn chair and head to Enchanted Eagle Park for a classic summer concert. Local favorites Jimmy Stadler and Max Gomez are taking the stage for an evening of music under the open sky. It’s free, family-friendly, and has that laid-back community feel that makes small towns like Eagle Nest so special.

Pro Tip: Bring snacks or stop by a local food truck on your way; it’s the perfect picnic-and-a-show combo.

TSV Celebration of Barks, Bacon & Brews (August 30–31)

Closing out the month is a quirky, pet-friendly event up in Taos Ski Valley. The name says it all: dogs, bacon, and beer.

Expect local brewers, fun contests, plenty of dog‑themed booths, and lots of happy pups wagging tails. It’s a great event for families, dog lovers, and anyone who enjoys good food and even better company.

Why August in Red River Should Be on Your Calendar

With music festivals, art tours, sunrise balloon launches, and a cheezeburger contest (yes, that’s a thing), August is full of experiences you won’t find anywhere else. You can kick back at a concert one night and hike a wellness trail the next. You can feast on BBQ during the day and sample green chile burgers in the evening.

If you're staying with your favorite vacation rental company, that would be us; you’re in the perfect spot to enjoy it all. Most events are just a short walk or drive from your rental. So pack your camera, bring your appetite, and get ready for a seriously memorable stay in Red River.