A- Overview:
El Paso is located in the Chihuahuan Desert of extreme western Texas, along the Rio Grande River. It adjoins both the state of New Mexico and the country of Mexico with the Franklin Mountains, the southern tip of the Rockies, slicing El Paso nearly in two.
With its classic Western geography, and because it shares an international border with Ciudad Juarez, Mexico’s rich culture pervades everything in El Paso, from its art and architecture to its celebrations and cuisine. El Paso’s area is 248 square miles, making it the fourth largest city in Texas, and 22nd in size in the United States. It is the nation’s third fastest growing metropolitan areas. El Paso is midway between Los Angeles and Houston.
Shielded by mountains on three sides, the dual cities of El Paso in the US and Juárez, on the Mexican side, are rewarded with more than 200 days clear days of sunshine annually and a dry climate, making it possible to enjoy most outdoor activities year-round.
Visitors can sample some of the best Tex-Mex cuisine in the state of Texas and go bargain-shopping in Juárez, Mexico, just across the river. There are many historical and unique sites to be seen from the unusual Bhutanese-style architecture of the University of Texas at El Paso to the three Spanish colonial missions of Yselta, Socorro and San Elizario.
The Adventure Zone is one of El Paso’s largest and finest family oriented arcade experiences. It features a game zone with virtual reality simulator games, a speed zone with go-karts, and a bumper zone for a water themed play. For roller coaster fans, Western Playland Amusement Park has rides for kids of all ages. Roller coasters, water slides, trains, rides, go-carts and more in a well maintained and exceptionally clean park. This is a great place to let the kids unwind after long stretches of time in the car! How about a day at the zoo? The El Paso Zoo is home to over 175 species of animals, including many endangered species, in 18 acres of natural habitat exhibits. The zoo focuses on animals of the Americas and Asia.
For just enjoying the scenery, be sure to take a ride along “Scenic Drive”. Visitors can see all of El Paso and Juarez, plus some of New Mexico. From downtown, take Stanton St. north, then go right on Rim Road. Another nice trip by car is “The Mission Trail”. Located just 15 minutes east of downtown El Paso, the Mission Trail is rich in history dating back 400 years. Visitors can see three active missions, plus numerous other historic sites. A variety of local shopping and dining establishments are also nearby.
Of national fame is the University of Texas El Paso. This renowned University is home to the annual Sun Bowl held on New Year’s Eve. The school opened in 1914 as the Texas School of Mining and Metalurgy. The buildings were designed to resemble those seen in the city of Lhasa in the Himalayas.
El Paso is in many ways represents the authentic Southwest, standing in contrast to the wealth and glitz of Santa Fe or Tucson. El Paso is unpolished, undiluted, and honest. El Paso and Ciudad Juárez each represent their country’s largest border city. The local culture, a fusion of Mexican and American traditions, is unique in comparison to the way of life in eastern Texas.
Vacationers should be sure to allow enough time to see it all: exploring, just wandering downtown, enjoying a Tex-Mex meal, or whatever the particular interest. By spending time in El Paso, the visitor is bound to gain a better understanding of what a border town is all about.
B- City Information:
Population: 563,662
Elevation: 3867 feet above sea level
Land Area: 249.1 square miles
Location: El Paso is situated on the border of two nations, and lies in the desert 3,762 feet above sea level. The Franklin Mountains split El Paso down the middle, dividing the city into what El Pasoans refer to as the west & east sides. The Rio Grande River flows along El Paso’s Southern boundary, separating Texas from Mexico.
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (when it’s noon in El Paso, it’s 1pm in Dallas and 2pm in New York City). El Paso observes Daylight Saving Time from April – October
Weather:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average temp. (°F)
45.1
50.4
56.9
64.5
73.5
82.0
83.3
81.1
75.4
64.9
52.7
45.3
High temperature (°F)
57.7
63.9
70.8
78.6
87.2
95.8
95.1
92.6
87.6
78.4
66.1
57.9
Low temperature (°F)
32.3
36.8
43.0
50.3
59.7
68.1
71.4
69.6
63.2
51.2
39.2
32.7
Precipitation (in)
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.4
0.9
1.5
1.8
1.6
0.8
0.4
0.8
Climate:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Days with precip.
4
3
2
2
2
3
8
8
5
4
3
4
Wind speed (mph)
8.3
9.1
10.8
10.9
10.3
9.3
8.3
7.7
7.6
7.5
8.0
7.9
Morning humidity (%)
65
55
47
39
41
45
61
65
66
63
61
65
Afternoon humidity (%)
34
27
21
17
17
19
29
33
33
30
33
38
Sunshine (%)
78
82
86
89
90
90
82
81
83
84
83
77
Local Seasons:
As the home to the University of Texas, El Paso; any time school is in full session, visitors can expect a crowd. The busiest time of year is over the New Year’s Holiday when the annual Sun Bowl takes place. With temperatures near 60 F during that time, it’s a perfect time to not only experience the annual football event but to enjoy the many outdoor activities available both in the city and throughout the area. There is just a hint of snow during this time.
Spring brings sunny days and temperatures near 80 F. With low humidity, who could ask for more? Summers are hot, yet stay dry due to the low humidity.
How to Get There:
By Air
El Paso International Airport
6701 Convair
El Paso, TX 79925
915-780-4749
El Paso International Airport is the gateway to West Texas, Southern New Mexico and Northern Mexico and provides airline passenger services, air cargo, and general aviation services. The airport is served by many of the nationally known airlines as well as certain local, regional and international carriers.
Ground Transportation:
Most of the major car rental companies as well as taxi, limousine, and shuttle bus service are available at the airport as well as at select locations throughout the city.
By Car
There are several ways to get to El Paso by car:
From White Sands National Monument, NM: Travel Hwy 54 South to I-10 East.
From Juarez, Mexico: Travel Hwy 54 North to I-10 East.
Traveling from the West or the East: Travel I-10.
By Train
Amtrak
700 San Francisco St.
El Paso, TX 79901
800-USA-RAIL
Call for schedule and additional information
By Bus
Greyhound
200 W San Antonio Street
El Paso. TX 79901
915-542-1355
Call for schedule and additional information
How to Get Around:
For traveling around El Paso and between El Paso and Mexico, a rental car is recommended.
National Holidays:
New Year’s Day: Jan. 1
Confederate Heroes’ Day: January 19
Martin Luther King, Jr., Day: 3rd Mon. in Jan.
President’s Day: 3rd Mon. in Feb.
Texas Independence Day: March 2
San Jacinto Day: April 21
Memorial Day: last Mon. in May
Emancipation Day: June 19
Independence Day: July 4
Lyndon Baines Johnson Day: August 27
Labor Day: 1st Mon. in Sept.
Thanksgiving Day: 4th Thurs. in Nov.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: Dec. 24 and 25
New Year’s Eve: Dec. 31
C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Adventure Zone
251 W Redd Rd
El Paso, TX 79932
915-585-9663
Hours: Call for days and hours of operation
Admission Charged
Game Zone is one of El Paso’s largest and finest arcade experiences. Game Zone offers cutting edge virtual reality, full motion simulator games, a western theme 8 player shooting gallery and some of the best redemption games and prizes in town. Speed Zone has over 800 feet of twists and turns spread out on over one acre, making it El Paso’s premier go-kart destination. Bumper Zone is set in 100,000 gallons of water with a small tropical island. Food Zone delivers top quality food for everyone and take out orders are welcome.
El Paso Zoo
4001 E. Paisano
El Paso, TX 79905
915-544-1928
Hours: Open daily from 9:30am to late afternoon
Admission Charged
The zoo is home to over 175 species of animals, including many endangered species, in 18 acres of natural habitat exhibits. The zoo focuses on animals of the Americas and Asia. The zoo is located in central El Paso near the intersection of Highway 54 and Paisano.
McKelligon Canyon
915-564-9138
Hours: Open daily, call for additional information
Admission Free
Beautiful Canyon Park is located on the north side of El Paso and in the middle of the Franklin Mountains and is fabulous for hiking and picnicking. The amphitheater is home each summer to performances of Viva El Paso! and other events. Take McKelligon Canyon Road off Alabama St.
Scenic Drive
The best view of the city accessible by car. You can see all of El Paso and Juarez, plus some of New Mexico. From downtown, take Stanton St. north, then go right on Rim Rd.
Transmountain Road and Franklin Mountains State Park
State Park 1331 McKelligon C Rd
El Paso, TX 79930
915-566-6441
Hours: Open 8am – dusk daily
Admission Charged
This is the road that cuts through the mountains and connects northeast El Paso with Canutillo to the northwest of town. There are several places to stop and enjoy different views of the desert and towns below. Franklin Mountains Park lies at the bottom of the west side of the mountain. It’s a great place for hiking and picnicking and to get an up-close view of the desert and mountains.
Western Playland Amusement Park
6900 Delta Dr, # 79905
El Paso, TX 79905
915-772-3914
Hours: Open weekends in the spring and fall and Wednesday through Sunday in the summer Admission Charged
Located in Ascarate Park in El Paso, Western Playland has rides for kids of all ages. Roller coasters, water slides, trains, rides, go-carts and more in a well maintained and exceptionally clean park. This is a great place to let the kids unwind after too much time in the car!
Wyler Aierial Tramway State Park
1700 McKinley
El Paso, TX 79930
915-566-6622
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Seven thousand miles of Southwestern natural beauty and culture present an eagle-eye’s view atop Ranger Peak in El Paso’s Franklin Mountains. A four-minute climb treats visitors to a 946-foot vertical rise. Upon reaching the Wyler Observatory at 5,632 feet, sky-travelers spot the Hueco Mountains, New Mexico’s White Sands and Mexico.
Historical and Cultural Sites:
Camino Real
101 S el Paso St
El Paso, TX 79901
915-534-3000
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Free
Originally built in 1912 and listed on the National Historical Register. The 80-year old Tiffany glass dome, once part of the hotel’s lobby, is now the showcase of the elegant Dome Bar. The hotel has hosted such guests as Pancho Villa, President Taft, and “Blackjack Pershing”.
Magoffin Homestead
1120 Magoffin Ave
El Paso, TX 79901
915-533-5147
Hours: Open Wednesday – Sunday 9am – 4pm
An adobe-style hacienda built in 1875 by settler Joseph Magoffin. The home is built of adobe (sun-dried brick) with walls four feet thick. Some of the furnishings date back to the time of the original owner.
The Mission Trail
1 Civic Center Plaza
El Paso, TX 79901
915-534-0630
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Located just 15 minutes east of downtown El Paso, the Mission Trail is rich in history dating back 400 years. Visitors can see three active missions, plus numerous other historic sites. Unique local shopping and dining are also nearby. Take I-10 east to the Zaragosa exit, turn south and follow the blue historical signs.
The University of Texas El Paso (UTEP)
500 W. University Ave.
El Paso, TX 79968
915-747-5000
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Free to Visit
The school opened in 1914 as the Texas School of Mining and Metalurgy. The buildings were built to resemble those seen in the city of Lhasa in the Himalayas. The Sun Bowl Stadium on campus is home to the annual Sun Bowl.
Ysleta Mission
301 S. Schultz
El Paso, Texas 79907
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Free
At the crossroads of Zaragosa Road and Alameda Street stands the Ysleta Mission is believed to be the oldest in Texas, founded in 1682. This mission is known to be the oldest continuously used church in the United States.
Museums:
Border Patrol Museum
4315 Transmountain Dr
El Paso, TX 79924
915-759-6060
Hours: Open Tuesday thru Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Admission Charged
Learn the history of the U.S. Border Patrol from the old west to the present. Static displays of aircraft and vehicles used by the patrol, surveillance equipment, confiscated items and more. This 10,000 square foot museum is a good stop along with the Wilderness Park Museum next door.
Centennial Museum
500 W University Ave
El Paso, Texas 79902
915-747-5565
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
The museum, on the campus of the University of Texas at El Paso, is a natural and cultural history museum focusing on the Southwest and Mexico. It fulfills its mission by exhibits, education programs, and research.
El Paso Museum of Art
1 Arts Festival Plaza
El Paso, TX 79901
915-532-1707
Hours: Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Regular Museum hours: Tues – Sat, 9am – 5pm, Sunday noon – 5pm. Galleries closed to public Mondays
Admission Charged
Located in downtown, the museum offers a celebrated permanent collection and a regular calendar of featured exhibits.
El Paso Museum of History
12901 Gateway Blvd W
El Paso, TX 79928
915-858-1928
Hours: Open Tue -Sun 9am – 4:30pm
Admission Charged
This museum displays the colorful history of Indians, conquistadors, vaqueros, cowboys and Cavalrymen who played a role in settling the Southwest.
El Paso Science Museum
12901 Gateway Blvd W
El Paso, TX 79928
915-542-2990
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 9am -5pm
Admission Charged
Over 80 hands-on science and technology exhibits located in a new building in the City Hall parking lot downtown.
Museum of Archeology at Wilderness Park Museum
4301 Transmountain Dr
El Paso, TX 79924
915- 755-4332
Hours: Open Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Admission Charged
Located on Transmountain Road near Highway 54 in Northeast El Paso, this museum tells of man’s adaptation to the desert environment. There is a mile long nature trail and great views of the mountains and valleys.
Natural History Museum
9348 Dyer St.
El Paso, TX 79924
915-759-8585
Hours: Call for days and hours of operation
Admission Charged
The Natural History Museum of El Paso fills 30,000 sq. ft. with more than 300 exhibits spanning the wonders of the universe, from the progression of life on earth to the dawn of civilization to today’s marvels. Paleomania features the great international fossil collection, Tutankhamun displays treasures from one of the most famous and richest tombs ever discovered, and Starscape illustrates the cosmos with spectacular photography.
NCO Museum
Biggs Army Air Field, Bldg 11331
El Paso, TX 79901
915-568-8646
Hours: 9am – 4pm, weekdays, and noon – 4pm Saturday and Sunday
Admission Free
Here’s one place where the Non-Commissioned Officer gets due credit. Equipment and uniforms used by sergeants and other NCOs through the years are displayed.
Tiqua Cultural Center
305 Yaya Ln
El Paso, TX 79907
915-859-5287
Hour: Open from 8:30am – 5pm, Tuesday – Sunday
Admission Charged
The center features a Tigua tribe museum, including its relationship to the Tiwas of Northern New Mexico, and their arts and crafts.
U.S. Army Air Defense Museum
Bldg 5000th Fort Bliss
El Paso, TX 79916
915-568-5412
Hours: 9am – 4:30pm daily
Admission Charged
The museum includes an outdoor weapons park, with weaponry ranging from early anti-aircraft guns to the Hawk missile.
Nearby:
Plaza Monumental Bullring
Paseo Triunfo de la Republica #4630
Juarez, Mexico
915-585-8965
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Live, traditional bullfights are held in the spring and summer at this bullring in Juarez. Three matadors fight two bulls each in this longstanding Spanish and Mexican sport. Matches last about two hours. On hot days spend the extra money for tickets on the shady side of the arena. Check the calendar of events in this issue for dates. Plaza Monumental is located at Paseo Triunfo de la Republica #4630, one block from the Rio Grande Mall.
New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum
4100 Dripping Springs Rd.
Las Cruces, NM 88011
Located 45 miles north of El Paso
505-522-4100
Hours: 9am – 5pm, Wednesday – Sunday
Admission Charged
The museum has several exhibits on farming and ranching, plus Southwestern art exhibits. The museum offers an insect zoo and wildflower and native plant garden. Domestic animals on site include burros, churro sheep, Longhorn cattle and dairy cows. Milking demonstrations are at 11am and 3pm.
War Eagles Museum
8012 Airport Rd.
Santa Teresa, NM 88008
505-589-2000
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10am to 4pm
Admission Charged
Located at the Santa Teresa, New Mexico Airport, this unique museum is only 20 minutes from downtown El Paso. The warbirds of World War II and Korea, and other historic military aircraft, are displayed in a 54,000-square-foot building and the surrounding area. The collection includes the P-51 Mustang, P-38 Lightning, A26 Invader, and the German Fieseler-Storch. Among later era aircraft are the F-86 Sabre and MIG-15s.
Wet n Wild
8804 S Desert Blvd.
Anthony, TX 79821
Located approximately 25 miles north of El Paso
915-886-2222
Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information
Admission Charged
Have fun getting wet! A variety of rides and attractions for children and adults.
D- Family Fun Attractions:
Adventure Zone
251 W Redd Rd
El Paso, TX 79932
915-585-9663
Hours: Call for days and hours of operation
Admission Charged
Game Zone is one of El Paso’s largest and finest arcade experiences. Game Zone offers cutting edge virtual reality, full motion simulator games, a western themed 8 player shooting gallery and some of the best redemption games and prizes in town. Speed Zone with over 800 feet of twists and turns spread out on over one acre, making it El Paso’s premier go-kart destination. Bumper Zone is set in 100,000 gallons of water with a small tropical island. Food Zone delivers top quality food for everyone and take out orders are welcome.
El Paso Zoo
4001 E. Paisano
El Paso, TX 79905
915-544-1928
Hours: Open daily from 9:30am to late afternoon
Admission Charged
The zoo focuses on animals of the Americas and Asia and is home to over 175 species, including many endangered species, in 18 acres of natural habitat exhibits. Located in central El Paso near the intersection of Highway 54 and Paisano.
Scenic Drive
The best view of the city accessible by car. You can see all of El Paso and Juarez, plus some of New Mexico. From downtown, take Stanton St. north, then go right on Rim Rd.
Western Playland Amusement Park
6900 Delta Dr, # 79905
El Paso, TX 79905
915-772-3914
Hours: Open weekends in the spring and fall and Wednesday through Sunday in the summer Admission Charged
Located in Ascarate Park in El Paso, Western Playland has rides for kids of all ages. Roller coasters, water slides, trains, rides, go-carts and more in a well maintained and exceptionally clean park. This is a great place to let the kids unwind after too much time in the car!
Wyler Aierial Tramway State Park
1700 McKinley
El Paso, TX 79930
915-566-6622
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Seven thousand miles of Southwestern natural beauty and culture present an eagle-eye’s view atop Ranger Peak in El Paso’s Franklin Mountains. A four-minute climb treats visitors to a 946-foot vertical rise. Upon reaching the Wyler Observatory at 5,632 feet, sky-travelers spot the Hueco Mountains, New Mexico’s White Sands and Mexico.
The Mission Trail
1 Civic Center Plaza
El Paso, TX 79901
915-534-0630
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Located just 15 minutes east of downtown El Paso, the Mission Trail is rich in history dating back 400 years. Visitors can see three active missions, plus numerous other historic sites. Unique local shopping and dining are also nearby. Take I-10 east to the Zaragosa exit, turn south and follow the blue historical signs.
El Paso Museum of History
12901 Gateway Blvd W
El Paso, TX 79928
915-858-1928
Hours: Open Tue -Sun 9am – 4:30pm
Admission Charged
This museum displays the colorful history of Indians, conquistadors, vaqueros, cowboys and Cavalrymen who played a role in settling the Southwest.
E- Events & Entertainment:
Events & Entertainment
January
Annual El Paso Chamber Music Festival
Held in early – mid January
Location: First Baptist Church on Montana
915-833-9400
Call for additional information
Presented by El Paso Pro-Musica. World-class chamber music with renowned soloists and chamber musicians.
Miss El Paso & Miss Teen El Paso
Held in early January
Location: Hanks High School Theatre
915-592-2254
Call for additional information
February
Southwestern International Livestock Show & Rodeo
Held in early – mid February
Location: El Paso County Coliseum and Fairgrounds
915-532-1401
Call for additional information
The annual show and rodeo is held at the El Paso County Coliseum and Fairgrounds.
Miss Black El Paso Southwest Scholarship Pageant
Held in early February
Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theatre
915-566-2407
Call for additional information
The Miss Black El Paso Southwest Scholarship pageant features young African American ladies exhibiting their poise, grace and erudition while vying for the coveted title of Miss Black El Paso.
Race for the Cure
Held in mid February
Location: Biggs Army Airfield
915-566-9745
Call for additional information
The annual Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation’s 5K Race and 1 mile fun walk.
Siglo de Oro Drama Festival
Held in late February – early March
Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theatre
915-532-7273
Annual celebration of the dramatic arts from Spain’s Golden Age with professional and collegiate performing groups from Mexico, Spain, South America and the United States in performances of classic works by Miguel Cervantes, Lope de Vega, Sor Juana Inez de la Cruz and Pedro Calderón de la Barca. All presentations in Spanish unless otherwise noted.
Extreme Tuner Car Show
Held in late February
Location: El Paso Convention Center
915-591-6100
Call for additional information
The annual show showcases imports and euro cars.
March
Siglo de Oro Drama Festival
Held in late February – early March
Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theatre
915-532-7273
Annual celebration of the dramatic arts from Spain’s Golden Age with professional and collegiate performing groups from Mexico, Spain, South America and the United States in performances of classic works by Miguel Cervantes, Lope de Vega, Sor Juana Inez de la Cruz and Pedro Calderón de la Barca. All presentations in Spanish unless otherwise noted.
El Paso Sports Expo
Held in early March
Location: El Paso Convention Center
915-544-9550
Call for additional information
An interactive sports venue for parents and kids.
El Paso Times Spelling Bee
Held in early March
Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theatre
915-546-6255
Call for additional information
About 150 students from West Texas and Southern New Mexico compete in the El Paso Times Spelling Bee. The champion will represent the area at the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.
Northeaster Parade
Held in late March
Location: Hercules and Diana
915-751-6964
Call for additional information
Annual parade starts at 10 am. at Hercules and Diana, and continues 1 1/2 miles along Diana to North Park Mall.
April
WinStar Derby
Held in early April
Location: Sunland Park Racetrack
505-874-5200
Call for additional information
The annual running of the $500,000 WinStar Derby and $250,000 WinStar Oaks.
World On A String Guitar Festival
Held in early – mid April
Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theater
915-541-4481
Call for additional information
The El Paso Arts & Culture Department presents renowned classical guitar artists from around the world.
Heritage Festival Week
Held in late April – early May
Location: Varies in El Paso
915-533-1555
Call for additional information
The celebration of El Paso’s art, culture, history and natural beauty, featuring dozens of events.
May
Heritage Festival Week
Held in late April – early May
Location: Varies in El Paso
915-533-1555
Call for additional information
The celebration of El Paso’s art, culture, history and natural beauty, featuring dozens of events.
Art in the Park
Held in late May
Location: Memorial Park
915-533-3311
Call for additional information
The City Parks & Recreation Department’s semi-annual arts & crafts fair with continuous entertainment.
Armed Forces Day
Held in late May
Location: Noel Field, Fort Bliss
915-568-4505
Call for additional information
Military equipment displays, chili cook-off, live music, historical tours, health fair and more.
KLAQ Balloon Festival
Held in late May
Location: Wet-N-Wild Waterworld
915-544-8864
More than 75 hot air balloons take flight during the annual festival. Event includes three full days of rides, vendors, balloon glows and live concerts.
June
Car Show
Held in early June
Location: El Paso County Coliseum
915-920-0997
Call for additional information
Big Daddy Car Show and Concert
Held in late June
Location: Sunland Park Racetrack
505-874-5200
Call for additional information
Chili Cook-off
Held in late June
Location: El Paso County Coliseum
915-534-4229
Call for additional information
Food booths and entertainment
July
Independence Day Parade
Held on July 3
Location: Thunderbird and Shadow Mountain
915-581-5179
Call for additional information
West Side parade starts at 9 am. July 3 at Thunderbird and Shadow Mountain; East Side parade starts at 9 am. July 4, at Hanks High School.
Downtown Street Festival
Held in early July
Location: Various Downtown Locations
915-544-8864
Call for additional information
The annual 4th of July celebration in downtown El Paso features four stages of live entertainment, more than 100 vendor booths, food and drink, a children’s carnival, and July 4 fireworks.
Summer Music Games
Held in early July
Location: Sun Bowl Stadium
Call for additional information
The annual Drum Corps International “Drums Along the Border” event.
El Paso Aqua Posse International Swim Meet
Held in early July
Location: Call for exact location
915-833-0212
Annual swim meet.
Ysleta Mission Festival
Held in early July
Location: Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church
915-859-0848
Call for additional information
The event includes food, drink, music, dance, arts & crafts and religious items booths, games.
Chamizal Independent Film Festival
Held late July – early August
Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theater, the El Paso Museum of Art, the UTEP Union Cinema and Juarez’s Pronaf Theatres
915-585-0672
Call for additional information
Filmmakers from the United States and Mexico present feature, documentary and short independent films. The festival also includes lectures, competitions and other special events.
August
Fiesta de San Lorenzo
Held in early August
Location: San Lorenzo Catholic Church in Clint
915-851-2255
Call for additional information
The annual celebration includes plenty of live music, matachines dancers, food booths, and more.
Chamizal Independent Film Festival
Held late July – early August
Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theater, the El Paso Museum of Art, the UTEP Union Cinema and Juarez’s Pronaf Theatres
915-585-0672
Call for additional information
Filmmakers from the United States and Mexico present feature, documentary and short independent films. The festival also includes lectures, competitions and other special events.
Bodybuilding Championships
Held in mid August
Location: Abraham Chavez Theatre
505-373-2998
Call for additional information
Sun City Border Regional Championships.
Seafood and Music Festival
Held in mid August
Location: El Paso County Coliseum
915-534-4229
Showmanship and judging; food booths plus music.
KLAQ “Taste of El Paso”
Held in mid August
Location: Western Playland
915-544-8864
Call for additional information
Some of El Paso’s best restaurants offer samples of their food during the annual event. Also features rides, vendors and live entertainment.
St. Nicholas Greek Festival
Held in late August
Location: Greek Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas
915-833-0882
Call for additional information
The annual celebration of Greek food, music and culture is Friday through Sunday,
September
Fiesta de las Flores
Held over Labor Day Weekend
Location: El Paso County Coliseum
915-542-3464
Call for additional information
The festival includes a variety of food and game booths, arts and crafts, car show and a Niñoville area for kids. Fiesta de las Flores Pageant is at 7:10 pm. Friday and Saturday, and Queen Crowning is at 8:10 pm. Sunday. Karaoke contest 6 to 7 pm. Friday and Saturday, finals at 6 pm. Monday. World Championship Huacha Tournament begins at noon Saturday at the Equestrian Center. A Celebrity Huacha Tournament is noon Sunday.
American Heart Walk
Held in early September
Location: Chamizal National Memorial Walk
915-833-1231
Call for additional information
The annual 5K family fun walk for the American Heart Association. Walk from the Chamizal through the El Paso Zoo and return. Includes entertainment, health fair, kid’s tent, and exhibits.
Mexican Independence Day
Held in mid September
Location: Chamizal National Memorial
915-533-6311
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The celebration commemorates the call Padre Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave the night of the Sept. 15 that ignited Mexico’s rebellion against Spain. The Mexican Consul General’s office honors Mexico’s independence with this ceremony filled with live music and ballet folklóricos dancing.
El Paso Chopin Music Festival
Held in mid September
Location: Chamizal National Memorial
915-584-1595
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El Paso County Fair and Junior Livestock Show
Held in mid September
Location: El Paso County Coliseum Fairgrounds
915-497-9518
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The annual Bucking on the Border bull riding competition and livestock show.
El Paso Interior Design & Remodeling Expo
Held in mid September
Location: El Paso Convention Center
361-882-2071
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Expo LTD presents the show 10 am to 7 pm. Friday, 10 am to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday.
Art in the Park
Held in late September
Location: Memorial Park
915-533-3311
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The City Parks & Recreation Department’s semi-annual arts & crafts fair is Saturday and Sunday at Memorial Park.
Woman’s Club Fall Festival
Held in late September
Location: The Clubhouse 1400 North Mesa
915-532-6131
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‘Cars Under the Stars’ Car Show
Held in late September
Location: Cohen Stadium
915-755-7637
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More than 300 cars and motorcycles attend the annual event, sponsored by Rio Grande Wheels Car Club.
October
Celebration of Our Mountains
Held the entire month of October
Location: Varies throughout El Paso
915-542-1422
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The annual Celebration of Our Mountains is a month-long festival of events to encourage appreciation of the El Paso region’s environment. More than 30 hikes, field trips, driving tours, nature walks, bicycle rides and other activities are offered to the public. Most events are free
El Paso Wine and Food Festival
Held in early October
Location: Varies
915-751-1181
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The epicurean fundraiser for the El Paso Tennis Development Foundation is held at various venues, including a Friday gala at Insights.
Arts International
Held in early October
Location: International Museum of Art
915-534-7377
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One of the region’s most prestigious juried arts competitions, presented by the El Paso Art Association is held at the International Museum of Art.
Fall Bash
Held in early October
Location: Westside Community Church
915-584-0882
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The annual community cookout, sponsored by Westside Community Church, is held at Francisco Delgado Park, on Imperial Ridge behind Franklin High School. Free cookout, face painting, jumping Balloons and live music.
Oktoberfest
Held in early October
Location: Fort Bliss
915-568-8923
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The annual celebration that brings a taste of Bavaria, especially beer, to El Paso is held on Carter Road at Fort Bliss.
Chamizal Festival
Held in early – mid October
Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theater and Grounds
915-532-7273
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The Chamizal’s annual tradition features three days of music, dance, children’s programs and demonstrations of traditional folk crafts.
Hueco Tanks Interpretive Fair
Held in mid October
Location: Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
915-857-1133
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Traditional Native American song and dance, pictograph tours, campfire program, cowboy skills demonstrations, food and gifts for sale.
November
A Christmas Fair
Held in early November
Location: El Paso Convention Center
915-584-3511
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The Junior League of El Paso’s annual holiday shopping event featuring more than 130 shops and specialty stores from around the country.
ACTF West Texas Festival
Held in mid November
Location: Studio Theatre and Wise Family Theatre at UTEP
915-747-5118
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The UTEP Department of Theatre, Dance and Film host guest colleges performing a variety of plays as part of the national theater program,
YMCA Turkey Trot
Held in late November
Location: Central YMCA
915-533-3941
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The annual Thanksgiving Day 5K run and 3K fun walk benefiting YMCA youth and teen programs.
Las Palmas Del Sol Sun Bowl Parade
Held on Thanksgiving Day
Location: Downtown El Paso
The annual parade begins at 10 am. Thanksgiving Day, downtown El Paso.
December
Season of Lights
Held in early December
Location: UTEP
915-747-8600
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Annual lighting of the UTEP holiday lights. The 150,000-plus lights stay lit each night through Jan. 1.
Senior All-Star Football Classic
Held in mid December
Location: UTEP’s Sun Bowl Stadium
915-478-6904
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Annual high school all-star football game.
Luminarias/Posadas along the Mission Trail
Held in mid December
Location: Mission Trail Churches
915-534-0677
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About 15,000 luminarias line Socorro Road. Spans Ysleta to San Elizario, with Las Posadas celebrations at the Mission Trail churches.
Vitalis Sun Bowl
Held on December 31
Location: UTEP Sun Bowl
800-915-BOWL
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The annual football classic begins at noon on December 31, with teams from the Pac Ten and Big Ten Conferences.
Entertainment:
The University of Texas at El Paso Ballet
Fox Fine Arts Center
500 West University Avenue
El Paso, Texas 79968
915-747-5606
Call for performance schedule and additional information
The University of Texas at El Paso Ballet is in residence at UTEP. Guest artists