Get into the holiday spirit at the El Paso Winterfest, transforming the city of El Paso into a winter wonderland! From November 22, 2025, through January 4, 2026, this event is fun for the entire family. The downtown Arts Festival Plaza and the surrounding areas come to life with lights, food, holiday shopping, festivities, and an outdoor ice-skating rink.
This annual winter celebration boasts events throughout the holiday season, including special celebrations from every City of El Paso department. It’s a short drive from Las Cruces to El Paso, so plan to attend and prepare to be winterized.
Scherr Legate Lights Parade
The festival kicks off with the Scherr Legate Lights Parade. Celebrating its 30th year, this parade draws more than 68,000 spectators to downtown El Paso for one of the city’s most beloved WinterFest traditions. The one-mile parade route lights up with over 55 illuminated floats, marching bands, performers, and “walking twinklers.” The festivities begin at 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, with the parade stepping off at 6 p.m.
Celebration of Lights
One of El Paso’s most celebrated holiday traditions is the Celebration of Lights at San Jacinto Plaza. The plaza will twinkle with thousands of lights and Christmas decorations, dazzling spectators. You can enjoy the lights every day from 5 to 11 p.m. throughout the entire WinterFest season.
The Rink
Another huge WinterFest attraction is The Rink, open every day with 50-minute skating sessions during the festival. The rink opens at 5 p.m. Monday – Friday and 12 noon on weekends. Check the schedule for closing times and visit the Winterfest FAQ page for other info. The rink is fun for all ages. After skating, consider enjoying some of the many other events taking place throughout the area.
Other Highlights
Highlights of the season include holiday fiestas, live music, and family-friendly entertainment at San Jacinto Plaza. There will be holiday-themed workshops at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the El Paso Museum of Archaeology, and so much more!
For a full schedule of free, open-to-the-public events, visit the special events page.
Other events to consider during this time are events at the Plaza Theatre, including EPSO: Christmas Fantasia on December 5 and 6, Christmas with C.S. Lewis, December 11 through December 13, and A Drag Queen Christmas on December 16.
And of course you won’t want to miss the Sun Bowl game at Sun Bowl Stadium, December 31.
FAQ
When does the El Paso Winterfest take place?
The Winterfest transforms El Paso into a winter wonderland from November 22, 2025, through January 4, 2026, covering the entire holiday season.
Where is the main location for the Winterfest activities?
The core of the celebration, including the outdoor ice-skating rink and many festivities, is located at the Arts Festival Plaza and the surrounding downtown El Paso areas, including San Jacinto Plaza.
What is the Scherr Legate Lights Parade?
The Lights Parade is the official kickoff event of Winterfest. It is a major local tradition featuring over 55 illuminated floats, marching bands, performers, and “walking twinklers.” It takes place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, starting at 6 p.m.
What are the hours for The Rink (ice-skating)?
The Rink is open every day during the festival season, offering 50-minute skating sessions. It opens at 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 12 p.m. on weekends. Closing times vary, so check the official Winterfest schedule.
Besides the ice rink, what other events are featured?
Winterfest features a variety of highlights including the Celebration of Lights at San Jacinto Plaza (dazzling light displays daily from 5 to 11 p.m.), holiday fiestas, live music, family entertainment, and themed workshops at various El Paso Museums (Art, History, and Archaeology).
Plan Your Visit to El Paso Winterfest
From the dazzling display of the Scherr Legate Lights Parade to the daily fun of The Rink, the El Paso Winterfest offers over a month of excitement. The city transforms downtown into a holiday hub featuring lights, markets, and cultural events at local museums and the historic Plaza Theatre. Whether you are driving over from Las Cruces or looking for a festive outing for the whole family, El Paso’s annual winter celebration guarantees memorable experiences this holiday season.
Whatever your preference, the City of El Paso goes all out during this time of year, with activities for the entire family. To find out more, visit the website.
Posted by LasCruces.com
