Here’s a roundup of some culture and civic events in the Borderland in the coming week.
A Christmas Fair: Wish Upon a Starry Christmas
The Junior League of El Paso will host its annual A Christmas Fair fundraiser, featuring three days of holiday shopping with vendors offering gifts, decorations and seasonal treats. The event, now in its 54th year, supports the organization’s community programs and partnerships focused on youth development, health and wellness.
- When: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 6-7; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8
- Where: El Paso Convention Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza
- Cost: $14-$16; children ages 5 and younger free
- Information: achristmasfair.com
4th Annual Art From the Heart
The El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation will host its fourth annual Art From the Heart event, bringing together local artists, makers, vendors and community organizations for a family-friendly celebration of creativity. The free event supports the hospital’s Healing Arts Program, which uses artistic expression to provide positive experiences for pediatric patients and their families.
- When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7
- Where: Memorial Park Reserve, 1701 N. Copia St.
- Cost: Free
- Information: elpasochildrensfoundation.org
Last Weekend: La Union Maze
La Union Maze closes its the fall season with a corn maze design honoring New Mexico agriculture, including the farmers, ranchers, crops, traditions and communities that shape the state. Closing festivities include a fireworks and a drone show Nov. 7 and Pumpkin Smash on Nov. 7 and 8.
- When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday
- Where: La Union Maze, 1101 N.M. Highway 28, Anthony, N.M.
- Cost: Gate admission for ages 6 and older is $14 Fridays, $15.50 on non-peak Saturdays and Sundays, and $17 on peak days; ages 2-5 are $8, $9.50 and $11, respectively. Online tickets are discounted. Children younger than 2 and adults older than 75 are admitted free. Taxes and fees may apply.
- Information: launionmaze.com or @launionmaze on Facebook and Instagram
Sun Bowl Art Exhibit Opening Reception
The International Museum of Art will celebrate the opening of its 2026-27 Sun Bowl Art Exhibit, featuring works by a record 119 artists. One of the Southwest’s longest-running juried art exhibitions, the show marks 77 years of highlighting regional artistic talent. The opening reception will include an awards presentation and light refreshments, with select artwork available for purchase. The exhibition runs through Jan. 17, 2027.
- When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5; awards announced at 6:30 p.m.
- Where: International Museum of Art, 1211 Montana Ave.
- Cost: Free
- Information: internationalmuseumofart.org
Chihuahuan Desert Conference
The Fourth Chihuahuan Desert Conference will bring researchers, conservationists and other participants to the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens for two days focused on the region’s wildlife, native plants, habitat preservation and restoration. The conference opens with an evening icebreaker Nov. 4, followed by presentations and sessions Nov. 5; registration also includes meals, refreshments and zoo admission on both days.
- When: Wednesday-Thursday, Nov. 4-5
- Where: El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens, 4001 E. Paisano Drive
- Cost: $125; registration closed
- Information: chihuahuandesertconference.com
On the Horns: Tom Lea’s Search for Mexico’s Brave Bulls
Matthew Butler, a professor of Mexican history at the University of Texas at Austin, will explore El Paso artist and author Tom Lea’s experiences in the world of Mexican bullfighting during the 1940s. The discussion will examine Lea’s travels to bull-breeding ranches, his fascination with the sport and how those experiences influenced his 1949 novel, “The Brave Bulls,” as well as his perspectives on Texas and Mexican culture.
- When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Nov. 7
- Where: El Paso Museum of Art, 1 Arts Festival Plaza
- Cost: Free
- Information: epma.art
First Saturday DinoTracks Public Tours
Insights Science Discovery will lead a guided hike through 234 acres of fossilized dinosaur tracks and ancient fossil beds dating to the Cretaceous Period near Mount Cristo Rey. The 2-mile tour explores the region’s prehistoric past, with guides discussing dinosaurs, geology and paleontology. Participants should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring water, snacks and sunscreen for the approximately 2½-hour hike.
- When: 9-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7
- Where: DinoTracks site, 2002 Mount Cristo Rey Road, New Mexico (exact directions provided after ticket purchase)
- Cost: $15; free for children younger than 5
- Information: insightselpaso.org
Veterans Day Events
Downtown Veterans Parade
The Downtown Veterans Parade will honor veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families while commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary. The procession through Downtown El Paso will feature military units, veterans organizations, community groups, floats and marching units in a celebration of service, sacrifice and freedom.
- When: 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7
- Where: Downtown El Paso; parade begins at intersection of Myrtle Avenue and St. Vrain Street
- Cost: Free
- Information: El Paso County Veteran Services Office Facebook
Horizon City Veterans Expo and Purple Heart Celebration
Horizon City will honor military veterans with a community expo featuring a Purple Heart proclamation and celebration recognizing those who have served. The family-friendly event will include local vendors, food trucks and activities for children, bringing the community together in appreciation of veterans and their sacrifices.
- When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7
- Where: Desmond Corcoran “Corky” Park, 13969 Veny Webb St., Horizon City
- Cost: Free
- Information: 915-253-1837 or 915-799-8194
San Elizario Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony
The San Elizario Veterans Committee will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its annual Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony, honoring local veterans and their service to the country. The parade will travel along Socorro Road to Veterans Memorial Plaza, where a ceremony featuring special guests and dignitaries will recognize veterans and highlight community support initiatives.
- When: 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7; ceremony at 10:30 a.m.
- Where: Parade begins at 900 Thompson Road and concludes at Veterans Memorial Plaza, 1501 Main St., San Elizario
- Cost: Free
- Information: 915-422-3653 or 915-383-8529
Socorro Veterans Day Parade and Celebration
The Socorro Texas Veterans will host their second annual Veterans Day Parade and Celebration, honoring military veterans with a community procession from Bulldog Park to Cougar Park. The festivities will continue with a car show, live entertainment, food vendors and family-friendly activities, including jumping balloons and face painting.
- When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8; parade from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by celebration.
- Where: Parade begins at Bulldog Park, 316 Buford Road, Socorro, and concludes at Cougar Park, 10664 Socorro Road
- Cost: Free
- Information: 915-227-0022
Coming Up
Fabens Veterans Day Celebration
The Fabens community will honor military veterans with a Veterans Day breakfast at Fabens High School, followed by a commemorative ceremony at Fabens Veterans Memorial Park. The observance will recognize the service and sacrifices of those who have served in the U.S. armed forces.
- When: 8:30-10:50 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10; breakfast from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., ceremony from 9:50 to 10:50 a.m.
- Where: Fabens High School, 601 NE G Ave. (breakfast); Fabens Veterans Memorial Park, 602 PFC Fernando Gutierrez St. (ceremony)
- Cost: Free
- Information: Fabens ISD Facebook
Old Glory Memorial Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony
Flags Across America will host a Veterans Day observance at the Old Glory Memorial featuring a parade, a performance by the Fort Bliss Band, military vehicle displays, ROTC marching units and presentations by youth organizations. The community celebration will also include remarks from veterans honoring those who have served in the U.S. armed forces.
- When: 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11; ceremony from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Where: Old Glory Memorial, 9550 Gateway Blvd. North (parking available at El Paso Community College)
- Cost: Free
- Information: oldglorymemorial.org
Friendsgiving Ride, Run and Celebration
The Friends of the Paso del Norte Trail will host their inaugural Friendsgiving event at Ascarate Park to raise awareness and funds for the expansion of El Paso’s planned 70-mile trail network. The celebration will feature a community bike ride and run, dinner, live music by Fungi Mungle and a live auction, with proceeds supporting the trail’s Zoo segment.
- When: 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14; dinner, live music and auction begin at 5 p.m.
- Where: Ascarate Park, 6900 Delta Drive
- Cost: $75
- Information: pasodelnortetrail.org
Flying Horse Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and Giddy Up Fun Run
The Flying Horse race will return to Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino with four distances for runners and walkers of varying experience levels. Proceeds will benefit United Way of El Paso County and participating local nonprofits, and registered participants will receive a finisher’s medal and access to a post-race expo with refreshments and local vendors.
- When: 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14
- Where: Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino, 1200 Futurity Drive, Sunland Park
- Cost: $25-$105
- Information: flyinghorserace.com
Turkey Trot 5K and 1-Miler
Fort Bliss Morale Welfare and Recreation will host its annual Turkey Trot featuring a 5K run and 1-mile race at Stout Physical Fitness Center. Medals will be awarded to the first 150 finishers, and participants can enjoy a free soccer scrimmage between the Fort Bliss Vipers and the El Paso Locomotive FC under-20 team at 10 a.m. Registration is required by Nov. 9.
- When: 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14
- Where: Stout Physical Fitness Center, 2930 Cassidy Road, Fort Bliss
- Cost: $5 for 1-mile race, $10 for 5K or $30 for race package
- Information: bliss.armymwr.com
Mark Your Calendar
SUTURA Binational Art Encounter
SUTURA will bring a five-day celebration of art and culture to El Paso and Ciudad Juárez, featuring exhibitions, performances, discussions, music, food and community-led activities. The inaugural binational event will highlight Latinx, Chicano, Mexican and borderland artists through programming at museums, galleries, cultural centers and public spaces on both sides of the border.
- When: Wednesday, Nov. 18, through Sunday, Nov. 22 (various times)
- Where: Multiple venues throughout El Paso and Ciudad Juárez, including the El Paso Museum of Art, UTEP and downtown arts districts
- Cost: Admission information to be announced
- Information: sutura-sutura.org
50th Annual YMCA Turkey Trot
The YMCA of El Paso will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot, featuring a 5K run and 1-mile fun walk through central El Paso. The holiday tradition also offers a “Sleep or Swim” option for those who want to participate without racing. Registration is limited to 3,500 participants, with proceeds supporting YMCA programs and services.
- When: 7-8:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 26
- Where: Montana Avenue and Ange Street, 900 Montana Ave.
- Cost: $50 for the 5K and 1-mile walk through Nov. 20; $69 for late registration and $79 on race day, if available. Sleep or Swim registration is $40.
- Information: runsignup.com
Sun Bowl Thanksgiving Day Parade
The annual Glasheen, Valles & Inderman Injury Lawyers Sun Bowl Parade returns to Montana Avenue on Thanksgiving Day with the theme “Famous Sports & Movie Scenes.” One of the Southwest’s largest community events, the parade features more than 100 entries, including floats, marching bands, equestrian groups, military units and performers. Amigo Man will serve as grand marshal, with Estine Davis recognized posthumously as honorary grand marshal.
- When: 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 26
- Where: Montana Avenue, from Ochoa Street to Copia Street; review stands at 1600 Montana Ave.
- Cost: Free along the parade route; review stand ticket information to be announced
- Information: sunbowl.org
El Paso WinterFest 2026
Downtown El Paso will transform into a holiday wonderland as WinterFest returns with more than 1 million lights, a 55-foot Christmas tree, outdoor ice skating and festive attractions. The annual celebration will feature the Scherr Legate WinterFest Lights Parade, a Singing Tree display at Cleveland Square Park and a New Year’s Eve Star Drop at San Jacinto Plaza.
- When: Nov. 21-Jan. 3, 2027
- Where: San Jacinto Plaza, Cleveland Square Park and surrounding Downtown El Paso streets, near 1 Civic Center Plaza
- Cost: Free admission; some activities may require a fee
- Information: epwinterfest.com
Christmas on Broadway
The El Paso Symphony Orchestra will celebrate the holiday season with a festive concert featuring Broadway-inspired Christmas music. Conducted by Bohuslav Rattay, the performances will feature soprano Jasmine Forsberg and the UTEP Choral Union. A preconcert discussion with Nathan Black will offer insights into the evening’s program.
- When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4-5; preconcert discussion at 6:30 p.m.
- Where: Plaza Theatre, 125 Pioneer Plaza
- Cost: $17-$49
- Information: epso.org
Adult Night at La Nube: Wizarding World
La Nube will transform into an enchanted world for an adults-only evening inspired by witches, wizards and magical adventures. The after-hours event will feature themed hands-on STEAM activities, interactive experiences, photo opportunities, music, beverages and food. Guests ages 18 and older are encouraged to dress in wizarding attire for the magical celebration.
- When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19
- Where: La Nube STEAM Discovery Center, 201 W. Main Drive
- Cost: $40 for members; $45 general admission
- Information: la-nube.org
Wands & Wonder: Family Night at La Nube
La Nube will host a wizarding-themed family night featuring hands-on STEAM activities, interactive experiments and magical discoveries. Families can explore the museum after hours, participate in themed activities and enjoy photo opportunities inspired by the world of witches and wizards. Guests are encouraged to dress in their favorite wizarding attire for an evening of science, imagination and family fun.
- When: 6-9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20
- Where: La Nube STEAM Discovery Center, 201 W. Main Drive
- Cost: $25 general admission; $20 for members; $18 with WIC/SNAP identification
- Information: la-nube.org
Old El Paso Sun Bowl
The 93rd annual Sun Bowl will bring college football postseason action to El Paso, featuring a matchup between teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference and Pac-12 Legacy. One of the nation’s oldest bowl games, the Sun Bowl has showcased legendary coaches, future NFL stars and memorable upsets since its inaugural game in 1935. The New Year’s Eve tradition returns with Old El Paso as its new title sponsor.
- When: Noon Thursday, Dec. 31
- Where: Sun Bowl Stadium, 2701 Sun Bowl Drive
- Cost: $31-$117
- Information: sunbowl.org
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