Here’s a roundup of some culture and civic events in the borderland in the coming week.
After Hours at La Nube
La Nube STEAM Discovery Center, 201 W. Main Drive, is turning back the clock for “Neon Night Out: Bring Back the 80s,” an adults-only evening of retro fun from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, April 25. Guests 21 and older can explore the center’s interactive exhibits with a glow-in-the-dark twist, sip themed cocktails, enjoy snacks and dance to classic ’80s hits. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their boldest neon and vintage gear. Tickets range from $40 to $55, with a limited number of “80s Tickets” that include themed giveaways. Advance purchase is required — tickets will not be sold at the door. Information and tickets: la-nube.org
El Paso Symphony Orchestra’s ‘Fabulous Finale’
The El Paso Symphony Orchestra presents the last of its classical series for the season, Fabulous Finale – Classical Trio, April 25-26 at the Plaza Theatre. The concert is led by Bohsulay Rattay, conductor, and features Kiron Tellian, winner of the 2024 Borderland Chopin International Piano Competition. The program is Antonín Dvořák’s “Carnival Overture” and Sergei Rachmaninoff’s “Concerto for Piano No. 3, op. 30, D minor,” featuring Igor Stravinsky’s “Petrushka.” The concert is at 7:30 p.m. Opening Notes with Nathan Black for insights on the evening’s program begins at 6:30 p.m. before each concert at the Philanthropy Theatre. Admission is $17 to $49. Information: EPSO
MACC Artist Talk — Rendered in Resilience
El Paso native Marianna Olague will reflect on her time as the El Paso Mexican American Cultural Center’s inaugural ¡Es Hora! Artist in Residence during an artist talk from 3 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 26, at the MACC auditorium, 201 W. Franklin Ave. Olague will share how themes of family, labor and love influence her painting practice, followed by a moderated discussion with curator Ramón Cardenas exploring her creative process and the stories behind her work. Information: epmacc.org
Premieres and Plaza Theatre Tour
Step back in time and explore the history and architectural beauty of El Paso’s iconic Plaza Theatre, 125 W. Mills Ave., during a free guided tour beginning at 10 a.m. Friday, April 25, hosted by the Tom Lea Institute. Once hailed as the “Southwest’s most perfect theater,” the Plaza Theatre opened in 1930 as the largest atmospheric showplace between Dallas and Los Angeles. The tour will highlight the venue’s ornate design, its cultural significance and the premieres of film adaptations of Tom Lea’s novels, “The Wonderful Country” and “The Brave Bulls.” Attendees will also enjoy a performance on the original Wyler Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ by longtime organist Rick Garven. The tour includes a walking route through the surrounding area. Space is limited and registration is required. Information: tomlea.com
Las Artistas Spring Show
The Las Artistas Spring Show returns from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, April 26–27, at the International Museum of Art, 1211 Montana Ave., showcasing work from more than 30 local artists. Attendees can browse and purchase original artwork while enjoying live music and food amid El Paso’s creative community. Admission is free. Information: lasartistas.org
Coming Up
Michelada Fest: El Paso’s first-ever Michelada Fest brings Latin music and culture from 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at the intersection of Main and Kansas streets. Hosted by local hip-hop artist Krystall Poppin, the one-day festival will feature performances by Netón Vega, Chino Pacas, Snow Tha Product, Calle 24, Jasiel Nuñez, Tito Torbellino Jr. and Saul Villarreal. Attendees can expect music, dancing, food and micheladas crafted by regional vendors. Admission is all ages, with free entry for children 12 and younger. Information: michefestelpaso.com
Mark Your Calendar
Madres, Mariachis y Margaritas: Celebrate Mother’s Day with music, food and community at “Madres, Mariachis y Margaritas,” a brunch fundraiser hosted by Estrella del Paso in support of immigrant families from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 10, in the grand ballroom of the Marriott, 1600 Airway Blvd. The event will feature live mariachi performances, a full brunch menu and photo opportunities, all while raising funds for legal aid and community programs. Proceeds from the event will support services that provide stability and advocacy for immigrant families in the El Paso region. Information and reservations: qgiv.com
Kickin’ Asphalt 5K: Lace up your running shoes for a good cause at the El Paso Center for Children’s 4th Annual Kickin’ Asphalt 5K and One-Mile Fun Walk at 5 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino, 1200 Futurity Drive. The event will feature live music, arts and crafts vendors, and a jumping balloon obstacle course. Race registration is $30 in advance — or $25 for youth and military participants — with a $5 increase on race day. All proceeds benefit the El Paso Center for Children. Non-racers can attend for free. Information: epccinc.org/events
Cool Canyon Nights: El Paso’s popular music series, Cool Canyon Nights, returns for its 15th season starting Thursday, May 15, at the McKelligon Canyon Ampitheater. The free weekly concert series runs through July 31, featuring 25 musical acts and themed performances including jazz, country, Latino and a Selena tribute. Gates will open at 6 p.m. each Thursday. The event will feature food trucks, vendor booths and giveaways. General admission is free. VIP tickets offering reserved seating, hors d’oeuvres and a beverage are available online for $20-$30. Parking is free. Information and tickets: thecitymagazineelp.com
Las Artistas Spring Show and Call for Artists: Las Artistas is accepting applications until Thursday, May 15, for its 55th annual Art & Fine Crafts Show, set for Nov. 15-16 at the EPIC Railyard Event Center in South El Paso. The juried show features work from painters, sculptors, mixed media artists and other fine arts professionals, attracting collectors from across the region. A $35 jury fee and five images, including a booth shot, are required. Information: lasartistas.org
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