Erika Alvero/The JournalBed-racing has become a tradition at the annual Mancos Melt, with teams competing against one another in a sort of obstacle course on Grand Avenue.
Erika Alvero/The JournalMancos Melt attendees attach slips of paper with "intentions" on the giant phoenix before the structure is set aflame.
Erika Alvero/The JournalThe burning of the phoenix symbolized the burning away of winter blues, and heralded the start of spring.
Organizers were concerned that the giant phoenix structure wouldn’t properly set aflame due to the heavy snow the area has recently experienced. But burning didn’t seem to be an issue Saturday night.
Musical entertainment at the Mancos Brewing Co. was provided by the band Billy and the Kid before the phoenix was set ablaze.
The Alpacka Raft team came in second place in bed racing with a time of 2:18.13.
Timekeeper Carol Mehesy watches to make sure the Deerhill Expeditions team member finishes eating his donut before continuing on with the race.
The two heats of racing took place along Grand Avenue.
Participants were also required to toss items like sponges and toilet brushes as part of the bed racing competition.
Artisans of Mancos hosted a chili making competition late Saturday morning.
