Here’s a roundup of some culture and civic events in the Borderland in the coming week.
Boo at the Zoo
Families can celebrate Halloween at the El Paso Zoo during Boo at the Zoo, featuring candy stations, Halloween-themed inflatables and opportunities for children to explore the zoo in costume. The annual event offers a family-friendly Halloween experience alongside animals from the zoo’s Africa, Asia and Las Americas exhibits.
- When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31
- Where: El Paso Zoo, 4001 E. Paisano Drive
- Cost: $13.95 adults; $10.95 teens, seniors and active-duty military or spouses; $8.95 children ages 2-12; free for children age 23 months and younger
- Information: El Paso Zoo Facebook
Halloween Carnivals
El Paso Parks and Recreation will host free Halloween Carnivals at recreation and community centers across the city. The neighborhood celebrations will feature costume contests, games, candy, jumping balloons and music.
- When: 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31
- Where: El Paso recreation and community centers
- Cost: Free
Participating locations:
- Armijo Recreation Center, 700 E. Seventh Ave.
- Chamizal Community Center, 2119 Cypress Ave.
- Chihuahuita Community Center, 417 Charles Road
- Don Haskins Recreation Center, 7400 High Ridge Drive
- Galatzan Recreation Center, 650 Wallenberg Drive
- Gary Del Palacio Recreation Center, 3001 Parkwood St.
- Marty Robbins Recreation Center, 11620 Vista del Sol Drive
- Michelle T. Adjemian Recreation Center, 9031 Viscount Blvd.
- Mountain View Park/Rae Gilmore Recreation Center, 8501 Diana Drive
- Nolan Richardson Recreation Center, 4435 Maxwell Ave.
- Officer David Ortiz Recreation Center, 563 N. Carolina Drive
- Pat O’Rourke Recreation Center, 901 N. Virginia St.
- Pavo Real Recreation Center, 9301 Alameda Ave.
- San Juan Recreation Center, 701 N. Glenwood St.
- Seville Recreation Center, 6700 Sambrano Ave.
- Sylvia A. Carreon Community Center, 709 Lomita Drive
- The Beast Urban Park, 13501 Jason Crandall Drive
- Valle Bajo Community Center, 7380 Alameda Ave.
- Veterans Recreation Center, 5301 Salem Drive
- Wayne Thornton Community Center, 3134 Jefferson Ave.
Freedom Fright
Fort Bliss MWR and Freedom Crossing will host the second annual Freedom Fright, a free, two-day Halloween celebration featuring a “Monster Mash” theme. Families are encouraged to wear costumes and enjoy trick-or-treating, haunted houses, face painting, inflatables, live music and other activities. Visitors without military installation access can apply for a community pass online.
- When: 6-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 30-31
- Where: Freedom Crossing at Fort Bliss, 1611 Haan Road
- Cost: Free
- Information: bliss.armymwr.com or 915-588-8247
Halloween Trick-or-Treating at Cielo Vista Mall
Cielo Vista Mall will host a free, family-friendly Halloween celebration featuring trick-or-treating throughout the shopping center. Children and families can visit participating retailers to collect candy and other treats while supplies last.
- When: 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31
- Where: Cielo Vista Mall, 8401 Gateway Blvd. West
- Cost: Free
- Information: simon.com
Halloween Fest Hike
Franklin Mountains State Park will host a Halloween celebration featuring educational booths, spooky games and activities highlighting the creepy critters that inhabit the mountains. Visitors can participate in a carved pumpkin contest, a guided nature hike or a beginner-friendly bike ride. Costumes are encouraged, and advance registration is required for the contest, hike and bike ride.
- When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Oct. 31
- Where: Franklin Mountains State Park, 2900 Tom Mays Access Road
- Cost: $5 for ages 13 and older; free for Texas State Parks Pass holders and children ages 5-12 participating in the hike or bike ride
- Information: 915-444-9121
KLAQ Halloween Parade and Día de los Muertos 5K
The inaugural Día de los Muertos 5K will bring runners and walkers together to honor loved ones through movement, community and tradition. The family-friendly event will take place ahead of the 41st annual KLAQ Halloween Parade, with participants invited to celebrate the holiday while remembering those who have died.
- When: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31; packet pickup 4-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30, at Chapoteo Water Park (1225 Giles Road)
- Where: Eastwood (Album) Park, 3110 Parkwood St.
- Cost: $55
- Information: runsignup.com
Día de los Muertos Festival
Historic San Elizario will celebrate Día de los Muertos with an evening of music, art and cultural traditions honoring loved ones who have died. The free festival will feature folklórico performances, traditional altars and ofrendas, a Catrín and Catrina costume contest, the opening of the “Las Catrinas” photo exhibit, food trucks and a car showcase.
- When: 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1
- Where: San Elizario Placita, 1521 San Elizario Road, San Elizario
- Cost: Free
- Information: 915-851-1682 or losportalesmuseum.org
Coming Up
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
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
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
Mark Your Calendar
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
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
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
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
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
The post Boo at the Zoo, free Halloween Carnivals bring spooky fun to El Paso families appeared first on El Paso Matters.
Read: Read More