Visitors - Things To Do | Annual Events - El Paso Convention and Visitors Bureau | El Paso, Texas

A Taste of El Paso-SEPTEMBER

If you LOVE local flavor, make plans to attend A Taste of El Paso, a food fest to include over two dozen restaurants, bakeries, and establishments offering samples and mini-meals, wine and beer tastings, mixology and baking demonstrations; plus a massive kitchen display from Goff’s Appliance & TV.

Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam: MARCH

USHRA Monster Trucks including Grave Digger® driven by Dennis Anderson, Maximum Destruction® driven by Tom Meents, Advance Auto Parts Grinder, Iron Man driven by Lee O'Donnell, El Toro Loco® driven by Marc McDonald, Monster Mutt® driven by Joe Miller, Lucas Oil Crusader, Grave Digger The Legend driven by Tony Farrell, Avenger driven by Jim Koehler, Brutus driven by Chris Bergeron, Shock Therapy driven by Jon Zimmer, Excaliber driven by Chris Lagana, Bounty Hunter driven by Jim Creten, and Iron Outlaw!
Subject to change without notice.

Alfresco! Fridays: APRIL-SEPTEMBER

Another Friday night, and no plans on the horizon? Head downtown! This immensely popular free concert series has been bringing El Pasoans and visitors alike downtown to Arts Festival Plaza to enjoy fresh-air performances in an electrifying atmosphere. Acts range from Big Band, Jazz, and Reggae, to Classic Rock, Ska, Blues and more.

Amigo Airsho: OCTOBER

Amigo Airsho is one of El Paso's premier events, and is ranked as one of the top ten air shows in the country. The show is filled with thrilling air entertainment and fun ground activities for the whole family to enjoy. Watch Franklin’s Flying Circus, where performers walk gracefully on the wings of an airborne plane. Prefer the action a little closer to the ground? Keep an eye out for the Jet Powered School Bus. You’ll have to find a new excuse to explain why you were late for class.

Armed Forces Day: MAY

Free and open to the public, this event is held every year on Noel Field at Fort Bliss. Billed as a military operation in which dozens of organizations team up to entertain the public, it is foremost a way for the community to come out and honor our armed forces. Chili cook-offs, a health fair, and a tour of the post’s historic sites are just some of the activities the whole family can enjoy.

Boo at the Zoo: OCTOBER

Come to one of El Paso’s largest trick-or-treat extravaganzas! The El Paso Zoo is home to about 240 different species of animals spread out over 35 acres. Explore the new animal exhibits while enjoying fun, games, and candy. Prizes are given for best costume. Don’t be “lion” around this Halloween – take the family out for a rollicking good time.

Bourbon Street on Cincinnati Street: FEBRUARY

Although El Paso is not quite situated on the bayou, it doesn’t stop the revelers from shouting, “Laissez les bons temps rouler!” (Let the good times roll.) The Mardi Gras celebration in Kern Place on Fat Tuesday is a hallowed tradition. Get showered with beads while enjoying good food, live outdoor music, and drink specials.

Celebration of our Mountains: OCTOBER

Enjoy the outdoor treasures of the El Paso del Norte Region during this six-week celebration. Bird watching, nature hikes and drives, mountain biking and even bat watches are part of this yearly festival. If you would rather relax than explore the young volcanic crater outside of El Paso, you can opt for the “Coffee, hot chocolate, muffins, and the tramway’ event. There is truly something for everyone, and most events are free.

Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta: SEPTEMBER

This free event at Tom Mays Park celebrates the Chihuahuan Desert with a program illustrating the unique plant and animal life native to our region. The Fiesta kicks off the popular six-week Celebration of Our Mountains. Free climbing tutorials and a chili cook-off are some of the activities organized to help people get excited about preserving our wonderfully diverse desert ecosystem.

Concordia Walk Through History: OCTOBER

The annual event features historical figures from El Paso’s past come alive through talks, reenactments of famous gunfights and more. A country store, exhibits, and plenty of food and drink will help make the day a memorable one. If you have every wanted to ask John Wesley Hardin a question, now’s your chance! Just don’t take him up on a duel at high noon.

Cool Canyon Nights: JUNE-AUGUST

Cool Canyon Nights is held in the picturesque McKelligon Canyon during the summer months.

Dia de los Niños, Dia de los Libros: APRIL

The El Paso Public Library, Parks and Recreation and hundreds of other local organizations hold an annual celebration of children and literacy. The entire community comes together at a local park to take part in free, fun and educational activities for the whole family. The event draws thousands of participants each year. Some of the activities include a parade and healthy heart walk, music and performance stage and a free book giveaway. Organizers have given away more than 150,000 books to children since the event began in 1997.

Downtown Street Festival: JULY

El Paso’s largest Fourth of July celebration is a non-stop party with food, fun, games, and outdoor music. Not just an adult-oriented event, there is a children’s carnival, arts and crafts area, and over a hundred vendor booths.

Eagle in the Sun Triathalon: SEPTEMBER

Eagle in the Sun Triathlon starts with a 400-meter swim in an Olympic-size indoor pool. The 20k bike course is an out-and-back on the historical Mission Trail, and the 5k run takes place on the Tigua Indian reservation! Individuals and relay teams are welcome for the event. The beginner-friendly course is flat and fast!

El Maida Shrine Circus: JULY

Come one, come all! The El Maida Shrine Circus features heart-stopping acts such as lion tamers and tight-rope walkers, as well as a motorcycle show, clowns, and jugglers. Still a little scared of those painted faces? Just remember that proceeds from Shriner events help provide free care to orthopedic patients and burn victims under the age of 18. That is definitely something to smile about.

El Paso Kids-N-Co.

El Paso KIDS-N-Co was founded in 1988, as a response to the lack of continuing quality theatre for and by children on a year-round basis. The goal was to enhance school programs by offering training and performing opportunities to children ages 5 to 18, based on ability, not age. They are dedicated to providing a quality theatre experience and hands-on theatrical training to the children of the El Paso area, reguardless of their economic, ethnic or educational background. The regular theatre season consists of four productions a year and some additional extra productions from season to season. There is no cost to the young thespians for participation in productions.

El Paso Opera

The El Paso Opera offers the tradition of opera with an exciting new twist! Visit the website for performance schedule.

El Paso Pro-Musica Chamber Music Festival

El Paso Pro-Musica was founded in 1977 by Bruce Nehring, its first Artistic Director. Over the years, El Paso Pro-Musica has established itself as one of the city's most respected organizations with a celebrated annual concert series and a history of bringing great music to our city and region. Based on a firm conviction that the experience of live music is an essential one and that a concert series alone cannot suffice to provide access to musical excellence for everyone, El Paso Pro-Musica has been dedicated to promoting educational and cultural development in the community.

Visit the site for a listing of the seasons performances.

El Paso Puzzler Mountain Bike Race: JANUARY

Toughets race in Texas, maybe even in North American...you decide! Choose from a 50 mile, 35 mile and 10 mile fun ride.

El Paso Symphony Orchestra

Established in the 1930's, it is the oldest performing arts organization in El Paso and the longest continuously running symphony orchestra in the state of Texas. The El Paso Symphony has received both national and international recognition as a result of its very successful tours of Germany in 1996 and Turkey in 2000, and continues to represent the El Paso region with pride and distinction.

The El Paso Symphony Orchestra is a popular attraction every year. The talented members of the orchestra, the fabulous guest artists, and superb musical direction make the concert season a must-see.

Elephant Festival: SEPTEMBER

The annual celebration of the El Paso Zoo’s biggest residents was inspired by the late, great Mona the Elephant. A fixture at the zoo for over 50 years, Mona was a much loved friend to many. Enjoy educational presentations by zookeepers and volunteers, activities for children and musical entertainment.

Featherfest: APRIL

Come learn about the over 200 species of birds that populate the area during this event at the El Paso Desert Botanical Gardens at Keystone Park. Study the relics left behind by people living in this part of the Rio Grande Bosque thousands of years ago. Take a nature walk or birding tour. There are so many options for the nature-lover to enjoy at this family friendly event.

Fiesta de las Flores: SEPTEMBER

Fiesta de Las Flores celebrates the El Paso Hispanic heritage with concerts, beauty pageant, huacha tournament, senior dance, carnival rides, food and lots of family fun. This festival is a wonderful celebration of culture and pride. Make sure not to miss the coronation of the new festival queen!

First Thanksgiving Celebration: APRIL

Don’t believe everything you learn in school! The first Thanksgiving wasn’t celebrated at Plymouth Plantation – it happened right here on the Borderland. That is the concept behind The El Paso Mission Trail Association’s yearly reenactment of the festivities at the Chamizal National Memorial. This historical portrayal commemorates the arrival of the first Spanish settlers in this area in April 1598. A company of costumed actors and dancers represent the Native Americans and Spaniards, who give thanks and celebrate after their perilous crossing of the Chihuahuan desert and arrival at the banks of the Rio Grande. Fans of traditional turkey may be disappointed, but fans of intrigue and conspiracy will not be.

FloraFest: APRIL

Why settle for another boring orange sweatshirt or a bumper sticker to show your support of all things El Paso? Buy a plant instead! Held in the courtyard between the Centennial Museum and The Undergraduate Learning Center at UTEP, this annual native plant sale is a wonderful way to brighten up those sad spots in your garden. Don’t know what to choose? Experts are on hand to help answer any questions. All proceeds benefit the Chihuahuan Desert Gardens at the Centennial Museum.

Flying Horse Half Marathon-NOVEMBER

Flying Horse Half is a 13.1-mile road race that begins and ends at Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino. The run takes athletes on a flat course in the Upper Valley area of El Paso. Half marathoners will run the final mile on a racetrack, where they’ll be captured on live video. The 5k Run offers an abbreviated course.

Franklin Mountains Poppies Celebration: MARCH

The El Paso Museum of Archeology, along with the Franklin Mountains State Park and the Franklin Mountains Wilderness Coalition holds its annual Franklin Mountains Poppies Celebration on Castner Range each Spring. In addition to basking in the blaze of color these beautiful flowers provide, make sure to check out the wildlife demonstrations and nature talks, as well as the educational exhibits during this free event.

Generation 2000: APRIL

Billed as the largest children’s fair in the Southwest, Generation 2000 is a weekend extravaganza melding fun, excitement, and education for children of all ages. Face painting, games, and live music help parents and kids forget just why they had been fighting in the first place, and bond instead.

Hueco Tanks Interpretative Fair: OCTOBER

This free two-day event includes Native American dancing and drumming, a Buffalo Soldier encampment, Folklorico dancers, pictograph and birding tours, climbing demonstrations, environmental and cultural information booths, and an evening campfire storytelling program. Come learn about one of the El Paso area’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

Hyundai Sun Bowl and Fan Fiesta: DECEMBER

The Sun Bowl Association, its 700 volunteers, and the City of El Paso welcome you to the Hyundai Sun Bowl football game. It is our pleasure to be your host as the nation's second oldest bowl game. The Sun Bowl is known for its friendly hospitality - not only from our volunteers but from our citizens as well. The City of El Paso has many things to offer and we are excited that you have chosen to celebrate this year's game with us.

During your stay, we invite you to attend our many activities surrounding game week, including the Hyundai Sun Bowl Football Game, the Fan Fiesta, the Bank of the West Sun Bowl Basketball Tournament and the Rotary Sun Bowl Luncheon. We encourage you to visit our surrounding historic sites, enjoy our sunny weather, taste the flavor of our bi-cultural community. Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask our friendly volunteers or staff. Once again, welcome to the Sun City. We hope you enjoy your stay!

KLAQ International Balloonfest: MAY

As one of El Paso’s most highly anticipated yearly events, the KLAQ International Balloonfest has been delighting the crowds for over 25 years. This three-day festival marks the beginning of summer with water rides, outdoor concerts, and, of course, hot air balloons in all shapes and sizes.

Luminarias By The Lake: DECEMBER

Stroll the wetlands illuminated by hundreds of luminarias. Musical entertainment and holiday refreshments.

Michelob Ultra El Paso Marathon: FEBRUARY

The Annual Michelob Ultra El Paso Marathon and Good Time Stores Half Marathon tours through a challenging El Paso route. Staged in historic downtown El Paso, the route continues through the neighborhoods of Kern Place and on alongside the Rio Grande and the Mexican Border . With perfect spring running weather and excitement every mile, this marathon is not to be missed!

Mighty Mujer Triathalon: APRIL

Mighty Mujer Triathlon is an all-female “super sprint” that starts with a 300-yard swim in an indoor pool. The 15k bike course is followed by a 2-mile run in the Memorial Park area in Central El Paso. The “super sprint” course is perfect for beginners; the rolling hills will challenge seasoned athletes! Athletes must be 12 years old or older.

Music Under the Stars: JUNE-AUGUST

Now in its 28th year, this free concert series at The Chamizal National Memorial has become one of the largest free music festivals in Texas. Pack a picnic and bring the whole family along to enjoy local and international acts playing under the beautiful El Paso sky.

San Jacinto Plaza Christmas Tree Lighting: DECEMBER

The annual "Christmas in Lights" continues the holiday tradition of the plaza's spectacular Christmas tree and displays. Entertainment begins in the early afternoon with the lighting at dusk, followed by the Holiday Lights Parade.

Shakespeare on the Rocks Festival: AUGUST-SEPTEMBER

Doubtest thou the longevity of the Bard’s immortal prose? Or did you have trouble understanding that last sentence? Whether you are a Shakespeare newbie or an established playwright and poet in your own right, The Shakespeare on the Rocks festival at McKelligon Canyon is wonderful way to celebrate of some of the most treasured works of Western literature. There is nothing like a dose of drama, betrayal, and intrigue – especially when it’s performed under El Paso’s breathtaking summer night sky.

Siglo de Oro Drama Festival: MARCH

Since its modest beginning at the Chamizal National Memorial in the spring of 1976, the Siglo de Oro Spanish Drama Festival has attained an international reputation for presenting quality presentations from Spain's Golden Age, in both English and Spanish. Once just a small event geared towards die-hard aficionados, the festival is now a place where scholars, performing groups, and audience members from all over the world can showcase and enjoy the classic literature that is our foundation and heritage. Take a step back in time and enjoy the works of classic literary masters.

Southwestern International PRCA Rodeo: SEPTEMBER

Don’t miss the 17th oldest rodeo in the nation and El Paso's longest running sporting event! Consistently ranked as one of the top 50 shows in the country by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, this charitable event is a true celebration of western culture and heritage.

Sun City Music Festival-SEPTEMBER

This large scale music festival hosts over 30 of the world’s most famous electronic music artist on three stages over Labor Day weekend.

Sunland Derby: MARCH

If you would rather watch horses run than ride them, mosey on down to the Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino to watch racers compete for a $900,000 in prize money. The Sunland Derby is listed as an official prep race for the Kentucky Derby, so you may just catch a star on the rise!

Victorian Spring Tea: MAY

Held at the home of one of El Paso’s most prominent multicultural families, this formal event is one of the most unique ways to enjoy this historic site. Sponsored by the Casa Magoffin Companeros, the annual seated tea whisks visitors back to the Victorian age (no bustles or top hats required!). All proceeds go toward the preservation of this historic residence.

Viva! El Paso: JUNE-AUGUST

VIVA! EL PASO
Four Centuries. Four Cultures. One City.

Enjoy El Paso's own outdoor musical extravaganza, celebrating its 34th anniversary in the McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre. This colorful musical spectacular celebrates the four major cultures that have influenced the City of the Sun.The Native American, the Spanish Conquistador, the Mexican and the Western American cultures and their histories come alive through drama, song and dance by a cast of over 50 performers. VIVA! EL PASO is an experience not to be missed!

Ysleta Mission Festival: JULY

This free 3-day festival has been held every year for almost a century at the centuries-old Ysleta Mission. Traditional dances, a mouthwatering array of food, game booths and carnival rides entertain the entire family. Enjoy a taste of El Paso history while helping preserve one of its most precious landmarks.