Thanks to its unique border culture and desert setting, our city’s festivals often blend Mexican, Southwestern, and American traditions into one lively experience. If you have company coming to visit you at our apartments to rent or lease in El Paso, Texas, here are some of the top summer events and festivals in El Paso, along with links to explore each one.

El Paso Downtown Street Festival

One of the biggest summer celebrations in the city, the El Paso Downtown Street Festival, is being held on the Fourth of July. It features multiple music stages, food trucks, car shows, and family-friendly entertainment, all capped off with fireworks. It’s a high-energy event that showcases the city’s diverse culture and community spirit.

Music Under the Stars (Chamizal National Memorial)

A longtime local favorite, Music Under the Stars is a free outdoor concert series held throughout the summer. Featuring genres ranging from Latin to jazz and pop, it’s a relaxed way to enjoy live music under our beautiful desert sky.

Cool Canyon Nights (McKelligon Canyon)

Set in a scenic canyon amphitheater, Cool Canyon Nights combines live music, food, and drinks in a classic outdoor setting. Running through the summer months, it’s known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful surroundings—perfect for escaping the city heat in the evenings. FYI: This is always a must-do for our staff at Cantera!

Beauty & The Beast

June 10 – 14 , 2026

According to the promoters of El Paso, Live!, this enchanting and timeless tale is filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love and has been brought to life like never before.  Gather your family and friends and get your tickets now to experience the spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. The show boasts the Oscar®-winning and Tony Award®-nominated score, including the classic songs “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
 

El Fresco: Latina Ladies

June 19, 2026

El Paso Live is also presenting the return of the El Fresco Music Series, bringing free outdoor concerts back to the Convention Center Plaza this summer. Featuring four themed nights including Disco, Latina, Cumbia, and Country, the 2026 El Fresco All Stars series highlights local talent, food vendors, drinks, and artisan markets. Open to all ages, El Fresco offers a lively way to experience summer nights in Downtown El Paso.  Got company coming? Get your tickets soon and enjoy everything great about El Paso, Live this summer. 

Gerardo Ortiz: El Ejemplar Tour

June 17, 2026

Gerardo Ortíz is an American-Mexican singer, songwriter, and record producer who has become a leading figure in regional Mexican music, blending norteño, banda, and corridos with modern arrangements. Rising to fame with his 2010 debut Ni Hoy Ni Mañana, he’s earned multiple Premio Lo Nuestro wins, Grammy nominations, and over a dozen Billboard No. 1 albums, while also facing controversy over his narcocorrido lyrics.
 

Totally Rad Vintage Fest

June 20, 2026

Here’s a new adventure for all to enjoy in El Paso. All the vendors specialize in clothing and accessories from the 80s, 90s, and Y2K eras, while also offering a selection of toys, home goods, and more to complete your nostalgic shopping experience! For the kids (of all ages), you can also unleash your inner gamer at the Free-Play Vintage Arcade, and explore the Rad Rewind Museum with relics from the past.  
 

Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass ~ and other delights

June 20, 2026

Here’s a flash back coming back to life!  For those unfamiliar with the 60s sensation, Herb Alpert is an American trumpeter, composer, record executive, visual artist, and philanthropist who co-founded A&M Records and led the Grammy-winning Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass. He achieved 1960s hits like The Lonely Bull and A Taste of Honey. The only artist with No. 1 hits as both vocalist and instrumentalist, he has sold over 72 million records, won 8 Grammys, a Tony Award, and the National Medal of Arts.

Brincos Dieras: El Desmadre Continua Tour

June 26, 2026

This one is an adults-only option (I our humble opinion). Mexico's irreverent clown, Brincos Dieras, brings his unfiltered comedy across the US and Mexico. He is delivering his solo show to audiences craving pure comedic chaos. The standalone format guarantees a highly interactive experience strictly for mature audiences. Ready for relentless laughs? Grab your tickets today before they sell out!

A few more final thoughts ~

Summer in El Paso is all about community, culture, and staying active despite our steamy days! From outdoor concerts and mountain festivals to film events and cultural celebrations, the city offers a wide variety of experiences that reflect its rich border heritage. Whether you’re exploring downtown nightlife or enjoying music in a canyon, these events give you a deeper, more authentic taste of your hometown of El Paso!

The post Top Summer Events in El Paso, Texas appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo in El Paso is an experience that feels both vibrant and deeply authentic. Although our community at Cantera apartments to rent or lease in El Paso celebrate our rich cultural heritage year-round—on May 5th, the city truly comes alive with music, food, and community spirit.

It is here within a short drive from our apartments to rent or lease in El Paso, Texas, that the  celebration carries a meaningful connection to Mexican history and culture.

The holiday commemorates the Mexican army’s victory at the Battle of Puebla, and in El Paso, that pride is reflected in colorful festivals, traditional performances, and family-friendly gatherings.

One of the best places to start your celebration is downtown, where events often spill into streets and plazas. San Jacinto Plaza becomes a hub of activity, hosting live music, folklórico dancers, and local vendors selling handmade crafts. Nearby, Plaza Theatre may feature special performances or cultural showcases, adding a historic charm to the festivities.

Food is, of course, at the heart of Cinco de Mayo in El Paso. The city is known for its incredible border cuisine, and this is the perfect day to indulge. Restaurants and food trucks serve up everything from street-style tacos and enchiladas to fresh margaritas and aguas frescas. Spots like L&J Cafe and Kiki's Restaurant & Bar are local favorites, offering authentic flavors that have been perfected over generations.

For a more festive atmosphere, many locals head to outdoor celebrations and block parties. Live mariachi bands and regional Norteño music fill the air, while dancers in traditional dress bring energy and color to every corner. Families gather to enjoy the entertainment, and kids can often take part in games, face painting, and cultural activities that make the day inclusive for all ages.

If you’re looking for a slightly more elevated experience, consider celebrating with a scenic backdrop. Venues near Franklin Mountains State Park offer stunning desert views, where you can enjoy a sunset picnic with a festive twist. Watching the sun dip behind the mountains while the city glows below adds a uniquely El Paso touch to the holiday.

Cinco de Mayo in El Paso isn’t just a party—it’s a celebration of identity, heritage, and community. Whether you’re dancing in the streets, savoring authentic cuisine, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, it’s a day that captures the true spirit of the borderlands.

Main Celebrations & Festive Cinco de Mayo Events in El Paso, Texas

Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl Fiesta
This popular, organized bar crawl event kicking off the Cinco de Mayo celebrations with nightlife, drink specials, and music is more of a party atmosphere than a traditional cultural festival — perfect if you’re looking for a social evening out.  .

 Cinco de Mayo @ the MACC
For all‑day Cinco de Mayo event, head to the  Mexican American Cultural Center (MACC) that is offering cultural programming and performances.

The post Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in El Paso, Texas appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

Earlier this month, we shared a list of some of the reasons why we LOVE El Paso, Texas.  As there are sooo many reasons we love living here at Cantera apartments in El Paso and our community that surrounds us, we decided to continue the trend.  See our top picks below and we will see you out and about!

We LOVE to Kick-up our Heels

OK, remember, we are talking about Texas and El Paso has a very rich history of the wild, wild west. Hundreds of filmmakers have flocked to and continue to visit El Paso to set their script’s scene in the colorful deserts that surround our city.  We’re also home to one of the oldest rodeos in the world. It’s been our showcase event for over eight decades and continues to draw some of the most talented rodeo pros throughout the globe.

As for country music … the local music and festivals are fabulous and the fans never ending!

If you are not into western swing, no problem here.  El Paso continues to shine as a salsa city that loves to dance into the night under our warm, clear, starry nights!

We Love the Food, You Will, Too!

Whether we are sharing our traditional Chile Rellenos at the neighbor’s Potluck, or heading out to El Paso’s award-winning restaurants, it’s all good!  We are well known for our culinary scene that consistently blends generational dishes from America and across our close-by border of Mexico. We also like to spend hours (and sometimes, days) preparing a flavorful rub of our favorite spices on locally-sourced beef to put on the BBQ at the pool right here at home.

It’s All About the Brews, Blues and Beethoven, Too!

We’ll take this one at a time. First, whether you are a fan of IPAs or traditional Pilsners or prefer to just pass around a pint, you gotta LOVE El Paso. There are so many breweries in El Paso that you will need more than just one day to experience the local establishments that pour award-winning pints. Our team’s top picks include Blazing Tree Brewery, Old Sheepdog, Deadbeach Brewery, Aurellia’s Bottleshop and Brewery and  Craft Rhythm and Brews.

Speaking of rhythm, not a day goes by that our city streets and establishments lack the passion to share some of the newest and most traditional tunes that define El Paso and beyond.

To see the full line-up of concerts coming our way to El Paso in 2025, click into VisitElPaso.com

Love Nature? So Does El Paso.

El Paso is a base camp to some of the most beautiful sights and settings on the planet. Throughout El Paso, we are so fortunate to have so many parks to enjoy the great outdoors. 

To get you out and about, here is a list of some of our favorite parks in El Paso:

• •    Franklin Mountains State Park    
• •    Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
• •    El Paso Zoo
• •    Chamizal National Memorial
• •    El Paso Municipal Rose Garden
• •    Thousand Steps Trail
• •    San Jacinto Plaza

If you’re thinking about moving to El Paso, our family at Cantera apartments welcomes you with open arms.  Throughout our community and the city of El Paso, you will find that there’s an irresistible Southern charm and an environment that welcomes all walks of life.

The post What We LOVE about El Paso, Texas! (Part Two) appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

Earlier this month we shared our initial list of things we are thankful for in El Paso, Texas. And as there are so  many things to be grateful for, we are continuing our list for you below.

On behalf of our entire staff at Cantera apartments in El Paso, we encourage you to experience all that makes your life happy and healthy … and wish you a very memorable Thanksgiving.

Beautifully Maintained Parks

Throughout El Paso, we are so fortunate to have so many parks to enjoy the great outdoors. Right now, the weather couldn’t be better to pack a picnic and plan a stroll, bike ride or hike through our region’s expansive list of Parks.

To get you out and about, here is a list of some of our favorite parks in El Paso:

• Franklin Mountains State Park 426 State Parks  
• Hueco Tanks State Historic Site 307 Historic Sites State Parks
• El Paso Zoo 645 Zoos
• Chamizal National Memorial 127 Historic Sites National Parks
• El Paso Municipal Rose Garden 66 Gardens
• Thousand Steps Trail 27 Hiking Trails
• San Jacinto Plaza 68

For a complete list of all the top 10 best parks and nature preserves in El Paso, click into this list now.

Family-Friendly Adventure

Lucky for locals and visitors alike, El Paso is a family-filled playground, year-round. So much so that we have dedicated many of our Blogs to the lifestyle that awaits you and yours throughout our colorful seasons. Here are highlights of the adventures that we’re thankful for … and enjoy every year!

• Visit El Paso Zoo, which houses many different species of animals.
• See a musical at the Plaza Theatre
• Explore Hueco Tanks State Historic Park
• Head to Franklin Mountain State Park
• Enjoy attractions like Laser Odyssey, Go-Karts, and Miniature Golf
• Take a UTV Adventure Tour or try indoor skydiving

Arts & Culture

If you are fond of art and culture, you really don’t need to drive too far to soak in the splendid arts and culture scene in El Paso. And thanks to the Museum and Cultural Affairs Department in El Paso, there is always something new to do now and on the horizon as well.

The Museums Division is comprised of the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of Archeology and the El Paso Museum of History, each dedicated to providing exhibitions and educational activities that recognize the region's multi-cultural heritage.

The Cultural Affairs Division implements funding programs, public art programs, cultural tourism initiatives and performing/visual arts events that provide a variety of opportunities to engage in arts and cultural activities.

 To see their impressive list of art and cultural events year-round, visit the organization’s website right here.

And … the Local Brews …

Be it for Christmas Dinner or just toast to a festive night on the town, the vibrant city of El Paso has you covered, whether you are a beer lover or not. Below you will find a list of some of the favorite spots our family at Cantera apartments likes to toast to the holidays.

 Blazing Tree Brewery
11426 Rojas Dr A-13 · In Rojas Business Center

Craft Rhythm & Brews
1301 Texas Ave

DeadBeach Brewery
406 Durango St

Mountain Star Brewing Company
11135 Pelicano Dr #2

Old Sheepdog Brewery
3900 Rosa Ave

Aurellia's Bottle Shop & Brewhouse
1620 Resler Dr

Three Missions Brewery
Socorro, TX

Keg & Brew Craft House
2114 N Zaragoza Rd suite b-1 · In Taco Avocat

 In closing, we hope you enjoyed our top list of things to be thankful for in El Paso. As you can see, our city is full of adventure, culture, history, and endlessly fun things to do.

Have a safe and memorable Thanksgiving ~ from the Cantera apartments family!

The post THINGS TO BE THANKFUL FOR IN EL PASO TEXAS (Part Two) appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

While we wait for winter’s full effects to appear throughout the great state of Texas, it’s a perfect time to slow down and share our thanks to all our neighbors at Cantera apartment community.

We are also thankful for the endless benefits that come with living a full life at our apartment community in El Paso. During this seasonal transition, it also provides the ideal time to share the things we are thankful for in El Paso, Texas.

From our home to yours, we welcome every opportunity to help you enjoy all the treasures that we have enjoyed while raising our own families right here at ho me.

May you find your own treasures to add to this list.

A Welcoming Culture

Although the population centers of El Paso continue to grow, we continue to keep our minds open to welcome all of those who seek all the benefits of living and working in El Paso. Curious to know what others thought about our bourgeoning town, we found this article on TrueYou.com. In their poll of state personalities, we came in within the top five for our ‘introverted’ spirit. Here’s how they describe it:

Those who are low on Extraversion, also known as Introverts, conserve their energy, are more reserved and introspective, and do not work as hard to earn social rewards.

The Music!

Due to the amazing collection of live outdoor venues in El Paso, our city overflows with music and other events every month! Throughout the year, we have showcased some of our favorites – many of which are annual, so check their websites and make it a date!

Cool Canyon Nights

Here’s a perfect match for a date night under the stars in El Paso! Now in its 14^th season, Cool Canyon Nights offers a superstar lineup of talent for their performances at McKellingon Canyon Amphitheater.

VIVA! El Paso!
This is a ‘must-do’ for families and friends every summer in El Paso. Come one, come all to see the finest musicians, actors, dancers, and technical crews present “Viva El Paso! It is a focal project for El Paso International & Cultural Arts (EPIC Arts) and this upcoming year is another magnificent year highlighting original works.

El Fresco Music Series

This free, monthly summer music event is held at the Convention Center Plaza in Downtown El Paso. As the promoters say it best, “Fridays just got more fresco” as the beloved outdoor music series returns to El Paso.

The Family-Friendly Holiday Events

Throughout the year, we often post about the upcoming holiday events in El Paso. Here are a few links to highlight some of El Paso’s top spots for holiday family fun – many of which occur year after year.

Top Easter & Spring Break Events in El Paso (Part One) – Cantera Apartments Blog

4th of July Parades and Fireworks in El Paso, Texas – Cantera Apartments Blog

 And with the holiday season upon us, here’s a list from last year’s blog that has annual events for you to enjoy. Be sure to check out each venue’s website for the most current information.

Things to Do and See in El Paso this Holiday Season (2) – Cantera Apartments Blog

The post THINGS TO BE THANKFUL FOR IN EL PASO, TEXAS (Part One) appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

Earlier this month, we shared creative and educational ways to engage children in the culture, history and contributions of African Americans.
With some more research, we are now offering more fun and creative ways to educate our young people on the importance of Black History Month and all that it stands for.

Cozy Up With Influential Characters
There are so many excellent books that showcase African American characters, you could probably read a book a day.  To get you started, here are some recommendations:
•    My Hair My Crown (0-5 years) Written by Tonya Abari; illustrated by Tabitha Brown
•    What the Road Said (Ages 6 – 10) Written by Cleo Wade; illustrated by Lucie de Moyencourt 
•    African Proverbs for All Ages (Ages 4 – 8) Written by Johnnetta Betsch; illustrated by Nelda LaTeef
•    28 Days: Moments in Black History that Changed the World (ages 6 – 10) Written by Charles R. Smith Jr. Illustrated by Shawn E. Evans 

Attend Virtual Black History Month Events
Throughout America and the World Wide Web there are hundreds of opportunities to find educational shows and workshops tailored for children. One of our recommendations that we found online is through the National Museum of African American History and Culture.  The program is called “NMAAHC Kids Learning Together.”  Click and look for their feature of the week; all of which will be offering stories and activities focusing on Black History Month and African Americans who have had influence in history.

Creative Colors
Here are three recommendations to stir the creative juices and make educational moments come to life as well.
1)    Click into ClassroomDoodles.com and search for your free, downloadable pages that are themed for Black History Month.
2)    Then go to PuzzlesofColor.com, which offers options to buy works designed by African Americans.  Once you have completed the puzzles, they are great for framing or can be used in years to come.
3)    Google BlackWallStreet.com.  This is a really cool board game for kids 8+. It’s all about a business that used to exist in Oklahoma that was referred to as “Black Wall Street.”

Educational Eateries
There are so many opportunities to inspire children to learn and the kitchen is one of our favorite locations.  During this time of the year, and this month in particular, the culture and cuisine of African American dishes come to life.  So, gather the family and get into these recipes this month to celebrate tradition all month long.

28 Soul Food Recipes 
Best Soul Food Recipes
Insanely Good Soul Food Recipes
The Soul Good Pot/Black History Recipe Ideas  
 
 

The post Creative Ways for Kids to Celebrate Black History Month (Part Two) appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.