EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The University of Texas at El Paso’s (UTEP) biggest annual celebration is finally here, promising a fun evening with live music, food, entertainment, and more.
The 35th annual Minerpalooza will be held from 6 to 11:45 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 5, at the Centennial Plaza on campus.
“At UTEP, Minerpalooza plays a key role in making sure students feel welcomed and supported as they build connections that enrich their college experience,” Miles Cooper, director of the Student Engagement and Leadership Center, said. “The event also unites the University with the broader community, nurturing the strong bonds that make both thrive.”
The free and open-to-the-public event will showcase different styles of live music, with UTEP’s Battle of the Bands reaching its conclusion.
Pete’s playground, a dedicated kids’ area, will also make a return, and for adults over the age of 21, a beer and wine garden will be available for purchasing beverages.
Minerpalooza is also one of the main fundraising events each year for student organizations at UTEP. The proceeds contribute to UTEP student groups’ annual initiatives, according to the university.
Ticketed activities range from 1 to 5 tickets for each play. All purchases are final and will only be available through cash or credit. Tickets for games and activities can be purchased at designated areas.
This year’s lineup includes the following, according to UTEP:
- DJ Osonus — a dynamic El Paso-based DJ and producer known for blending dubstep, house, deep house and techno. As part of the local Wasted Presents collective, he delivers genre-spanning sets that resonate with electronic music lovers.
- The Pie Sisters — an R&B and soul group composed of four sisters whose music blends heartfelt songwriting with rich harmonies.
- Luna Luna — a solo project of Colombian-American artist Kavvi, known for crafting a vibrant sound that seamlessly blends his Spanish and English roots. Mixing nostalgic, feel-good synth-pop with a modern indie edge, Luna Luna has become a standout name in the alt-pop and Latin indie scenes.
- DJ Technotics — a visionary artist from El Paso, known by day as Jorge Dominguez, does what he does best by night: turning up the beat. He has performed at venues around the city, with Elmont Resort being a major highlight.
The following bands will also go head-to-head in the Battle of the Bands competition: Texas Heart and Acrolein. UTEP reminds attendees to stay until the very end to see who is crowned the winner this year.
Other things to take into consideration before attending are the following:
Parking — Free guest parking is located in the following lots and garages:
- Schuster 2, 3 and 4
- Schuster Garage
- Sun Bowl 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8
- Sun Bowl Garage
- ADA guest parking is available in the University 3 lot located next to the Liberal Arts Building.
Clear bag policy — Minerpalooza has a clear bag policy. Learn more about what visitors can and cannot bring here.
Special lightings — To commemorate this special event, the “Mining Minds” pickaxe sculpture, located at UTEP’s University Ave. roundabout, will be lit blue and orange on Friday.
Installed in 2010, “Mining Minds” is illuminated blue and orange to celebrate special days, accomplishments and more, according to UTEP.
Learn more about the artist and the sculpture here.
The “M” on the mountain across from Sun Bowl Stadium will also be lit in recognition of this annual tradition.
For more information on food and beverage options, parking, activities and lineup set times, visit utep.edu/minerpalooza.
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