Fun, Fun February

February kicks off with a Winter Storm Warning across northern and western New Mexico, bringing a blanket of fresh powder to the slopes in preparation for another outstanding month of skiing and some spirited events in Angel Fire and Red River.You may not think of a small ski town deep in the mountains of northern New Mexico when you think of Mardi Gras. But that’s only until you attend their parties. Both Angel Fire and Red River make Mardi Gras a big deal, both on the mountain and around town. If you’d rather be skiing than at the real thing, check out these bead-slinging celebrations instead.Angel Fire bring this Big Easy to the mountain with live music, parades, a masquerade ball and plenty more. This is also the week they host the 2016 World Championship Shovel Races. Register to participate or come to spectate this must-attend event that made the Jettsetter’s list of 11 Craziest Winter Adventures and the Men’s Journal list of World Championships You Can Win!Red River goes into full carnival-mode for Mardi Gras in the Mountains. This year’s theme is the Roaring 20’s and festivities include costume balls, bead tossing, Cajun and Creole food, parades, costume contests, crawfish boils, and so much more. The week kicks off with the Burning of the Loup-garou, a fictional character that has become the mascot of the Mardi Gras in the Mountains. Much like Santa Fe’s Zozobra, Loup-garou is set on fire as party goers write down their worries and troubles and throw them into the blaze. Gather your family and friends, aka. your “krewe”, because more is merrier during this exciting week in Red River.

Angel Fire

Mardi Gras Celebration at Angel Fire Resort

February 5-9, 2016Daily specials, live music, parades and a masquerade ball. angelfireresort.com

2016 World Championship Shovel Races presented by Lowe’s Valley Market

February 5-6, 2016Shovels do all the hard work. It’s their turn to have some fun! Exciting, high-speed races take place at Angel Fire Resort. Friday is practice and registration day. $5 for practice runs (refunded for racers). Saturday is Race Day starting at 9:30 a.m.   See site for more details about registration and detailed schedule.

Red River

Mardi Gras in the Mountains

February 4-9, 2016Week-long party is non-stop with events including costume balls, bead tossing, singing and dancing, parades, kids costume contest, cajun cooking, burning of the Loup-garou, crawfish boils, downhill gator race, and more. For more info and a detailed schedule of events, visit redriverchamber.org