RED RIVER, N.M. (KRQE) – A deadly biker gang shootout pushed Red River to replace its Memorial Day festivities this year. While some said it was a success, other businesses said the change has cost them a lot.
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“It was quiet, it was peaceful,” said one Red River Resident at a town meeting on June 3. “Families don’t spend money like the bikers spend money this weekend,” said another.
That’s the response from some in Red River to this Memorial Day Weekend’s big shift from a bike rally, to the new Mayfest in the Mountains event.
While some businesses said they saw plenty of people and revenue after a recent survey others said the new event was not a money-maker. The feedback came at a recent town meeting after a survey was sent to businesses, residents, and visitors. After last year’s deadly biker gang shootout, Mayfest was created as a family-friendly replacement.
While bikers weren’t excluded, many businesses noticed far fewer of them. Some businesses said they were confused about who the event was for. Of the roughly 60 businesses that filled out the survey, 46% said their sales during Mayfest dropped significantly. The mayor also admitted there was about a 25% drop in visitors. “Our retail stores did well. Our bars, restaurants, and hotels not so much,” said Red River Mayor Linda Calhoun.
But overall, town leaders said the survey showed a positive response to the event. “I think everyone was pleased with the veteran focus and I can see us moving forward that way and try to build on that,” said Mayor Calhoun.
The mayor said it’s too early to tell if the town will change the event at all for next year. Before any decision, they will have more meetings about it.
