EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – A vibrant weekend of events is in store for San Elizario, and El Paso County wants you to be part of it.
El Paso County, in conjunction with the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street traveling exhibit, Crossroads: Change in Rural America, is hosting these events.
The County said these events showcase the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region along the Historic Mission Trail.
The events are as follows, according to the County:
Friday, May 30
- 6:30 p.m. — “Journey of Resilience” Presentation
- Location: Ysleta del Sur Cultural Center, 305 Yaya Lane, El Paso
- Join Rick Quezada, director of Cultural Preservation for Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, as he presents a compelling narrative on the 1681 forced migration from Isleta, New Mexico — an event that led to the founding of Ysleta del Sur Pueblo in El Paso County.
- 6:30 p.m. — Free Screening of Fandango
- Location: Presidio Hall
- Enjoy a special showing of Fandango, a coming-of-age road trip film partly shot in San Elizario. Presented by the Texas Archive of the Moving Image (TAMI), this screening celebrates Texas’ cinematic legacy and the power of storytelling through film.
Saturday, May 31
- 8:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. — “San Elizario’s Trails in History: From Past to Present” Conference
- Location: San Elizario Civic Center
- Admission: $15 at the door
- Presented by the San Elizario Genealogy & Historical Society, this annual conference dives into the community’s rich historical journey, highlighting its role in the borderland narrative.
- All Day — TAMI Home Movie Digitization Event
- Location: San Elizario Historic District
- Have your old home movies preserved! TAMI will be onsite to digitize personal footage (such as 8mm films and VHS tapes) of Texas weddings, quinceañeras, and local stories—free of charge. Participants will receive a complimentary digital copy.
- 2:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. — “Nuestra Historia: Threads of Time” Historical Re-enactment
- Location: Los Portales Museum
- Cap off the day with a family-friendly, live re-enactment that brings San Elizario’s storied past to life. This theatrical performance honors the area’s enduring heritage through powerful storytelling.
The County said the events, which are free unless otherwise noted, are part of a broader celebration surrounding the Smithsonian’s “Crossroads” exhibit, currently on view at Los Portales Museum through June 15.
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