WinterFest is an annual downtown event in the City of El Paso. It begins the weekend before Thanksgiving and ends on the first Monday of January. The event began in 2015 and is considered the most incredible festival in the Southwest. It commences with the ceremonial lighting of the holiday tree and San Jacinto Plaza. The opening ceremony includes the Scherr Legate WinterFest Lights Parade and a festive concert. San Jacinto Plaza is adorned with over 500,000 mini-lights, oversized decorations, and a 55-ft holiday tree throughout the season. Winter-themed attractions and family-friendly programs are offered in and around downtown. Visitors can enjoy the outdoor ice-skating rink, holiday trees, and displays and stroll along the bedecked Paseo de las Luces to see festive holiday decor. WinterFest is a beloved tradition in the community, and various partners work with the City of El Paso to make it bigger and better for El Pasoans and visitors to enjoy.
Are you a fan of the performing arts? Then, you will want to attend The UTEP Dinner Theatre. Their impressive productions include Blondel, Tycoon, Chess, and Lute premieres. Did you know their chess production was the first stage after London and New York? This critically acclaimed show was performed by the talented UTEP company at the prestigious John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in 1989 and even won an award at the American College Theatre Festival. Check out The UTEP Dinner Theatre's website and join them as a valued member of their audience. You won't be disappointed.
A trip to the El Paso area wouldn't be complete without stopping by the Hal Marcus Gallery. This small art gallery between UTEP and Downtown features a vibrant and imaginative exhibition that provokes thought. Visitors can explore works by the local El Paso painter Hal Marcus and other talented artists. At the gallery, visitors can view works showcasing artists' skills in various mediums, including oil, acrylic, mixed media, pen and ink, etching, and sculpture. The exhibition also includes a nine-minute looping video that offers profound insights into the art and Hal Marcus's distinctive approach.