When the Fourth of July rolls around, El Paso, Texas lights up with borderland pride, family fun, and breathtaking desert sunsets that rival the fireworks themselves. Whether you’re looking for live music, family-friendly celebrations at your apartment in El Paso, or a front-row seat to fireworks bursting over the Franklin Mountains, here’s how to make the most of America’s 250^th birthday, El Paso style!

Star Spangled District Fireworks Spectacular

The centerpiece of El Paso’s July 4th festivities is the Ascarate Park. This all-day event brings together live music, local food trucks, carnival rides, and a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Ascarate. Gates open early and families claim picnic spots along the water’s edge for the best views. Admission is typically free, with a small parking fee, and the fireworks launch at 9:20 p.m.

Freedom Fest at Fort Bliss

Military families and locals alike gather for one of the city’s largest Independence Day celebrations. Expect headliner concerts, beer gardens, a kids’ zone, food vendors, and a massive fireworks show visible across much of East El Paso. Civilians are welcome with valid ID, making this a great way to honor those who serve while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Viva El Paso! at McKelligon Canyon

For something uniquely El Pasoan, catch the outdoor musical at McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre. This long-running production tells the city’s story through dance, drama, and live music, highlighting Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and Western influences. The July 4th weekend shows often feature special patriotic performances and fireworks framed by the canyon walls — a truly unforgettable experience.

Fireworks Across the City

If you prefer a more casual evening, you’ve got options. Wet ‘N’ Wild Waterworld in Anthony hosts its Red, White & Boom Bash, including poolside music and a dazzling fireworks finale. Meanwhile, newer viewing spots like The Fountains at Farah or Cielo Vista Mall’s parking lot parties draw families with local DJs and food pop-ups. No matter where you stand, you’ll likely see at least one show light up the desert sky.

Celebrate the Border Way

El Paso brings together the best of Texas warmth and Mexican flair on Independence Day. From mariachi music echoing through the mountains to food trucks serving brisket and tacos on every corner, Sun City celebrates in its own festive way. However, you mark the holiday, expect color, culture, and community—under one dazzling desert sky.

Need a few more ideas?

 15 Ways to Celebrate America’s 250^th Birthday

Whether you’re picnicking to the sound of an orchestra, dancing at Willie’s picnic, or watching the show from a rooftop, El Paso offers something for every kind of patriot.

Need more ideas on how to celebrate America’s 250^th?  Read on!

1. Host a red, white, and blue barbecue at the pool for family and friends.
2. Volunteer to decorate your community center or library in patriotic style.
3. Organize a bicycle or pet parade for kids and families around Cantera Apartments in El Paso.
4. Join or host a historical costume party, dressing as people from 1776 to now.
5. Register to vote or help others get registered.
6. Visit your local city hall or state capital to learn about government today.
7. Write a letter to your future self about what freedom means in 2026.
8. Learn about an American ancestor and share their story.
9. Support a veterans’ organization or museum.
10. Read the Declaration of Independence aloud with family or friends.
11. Donate $2.50, $25, or $250 to a nonprofit supporting democracy or education.
12. Build or craft something inspired by early American innovation—like soap, quilts, or candles.
13. Host a patriotic trivia night or quiz about U.S. history.
14. Watch movies about America’s founding era, like 1776 or John Adams.
15. Create a time capsule with 2026 mementos for 2076.

Each idea—from festive to reflective—helps you celebrate not just a milestone year, but the ever-evolving story of America and its people.

The post How to Celebrate the 4th of July, El Paso Style! appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

Earlier this month, we shared some of our favorite holiday activities, and the festive fun is far from over! As you dash through our joyful town, take a moment to reflect on the true reason for the season!

Make it A Date Night to Remember!

There are endless entertainment options in El Paso, and this season is no exception! Below are a few of our favorites. For full details and times, visit VisitElPaso.com and check their EVENTS pages for December.

A Drag Queen Christmas!

Join Murray & Peter for “A Drag Queen Christmas” hosted by Nina West, featuring America’s longest-running drag tour! Get ready to enjoy live performances from your favorite queens. VIP Meet & Greet add-on tickets are also available. (This event is for ages 18 and over.)

NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet

Celebrate the holiday season with America’s favorite Christmas tradition! This enchanting performance features an international all-star cast, blending world-class ballet with whimsical puppets, lavish costumes, and stunning acrobatics. Don’t miss this chance to create memories that will last a lifetime—get your tickets now!

Erica Lane: Here We Come A Caroling

Experience the excitement of Christmas like never before! Join Erica Lane and her world-class band for a fantastic night of Christmas carols and original songs. Feel the nostalgia of the season with jazz and Celtic influences, interwoven with a pop-rock-folk vibe that reflects Erica’s unique artistry. You’ll be bursting with holiday cheer and won’t want the night to end!

Christmas with C. S. Lewis

In his early adult years, C. S. Lewis believed the story of Christ’s birth was merely a feel-good myth. That all changed after a profound encounter with his friend and fellow author, J. R. R. Tolkien. Both men adored mythology, but Tolkien was convinced that the Jesus myth was the one true myth. Thus began Lewis's transformation, a journey that celebrates the heart of the season!

Enjoy all that El Paso has to offer this holiday season, and may your days be merry and bright!

The post Holiday Events in El Paso, Texas (Part Two) appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

‘Tis the season to embrace the delightful joys of Christmas and Hanukkah right here in El Paso! In the spirit of the season, our family at Cantera Apartment Community has gathered a list of our favorite holiday happenings to help you create magical memories this festive time of year.

Don’t forget to check out both of our blogs, as many events will brighten up the month with cheer!

Wherever you go and whatever you do, our family wishes you a joyful and safe holiday season!

Classically Christmas!

Every year, El Paso kicks off the holiday spirit with a grand tree lighting ceremony, and the annual lights parade at San Jacinto Plaza. Wrapped in hundreds of twinkling lights, it’s the perfect place to stroll through the Plaza, shop for those perfect gifts on your Christmas list, and enjoy some downtime, unplugged, and plugged into the holiday spirit.

Tap Into the Tamales!

No stroll through El Paso during the holidays would be complete without savoring the city’s famous tamales! You won’t need a list—just open your eyes to the menus, and you’ll discover a wonderful array of options to delight your taste buds this season.

Seek out the Christmas Lights!

As you wander through El Paso, you’ll find homes sparkling with beautiful Christmas lights. Two of our top picks are Fred Loya’s El Paso Christmas Lights, a dazzling winter wonderland featuring millions of enchanting lights and festive decorations. This magical display draws thousands from all over to enjoy the vibrant holiday atmosphere. While you’re out enjoying the seasonal sights, don’t miss the Eastridge neighborhood, renowned for its stunning Christmas light displays.

Capture the “Lights on the Lake!”

The holiday light display at Ascarate Park is a breathtaking sight, boasting over two million lights and 100 animated displays. This event includes breaking piñatas along with live music and food—making it an exciting and fun-filled way to celebrate Christmas for all ages!

Look High and Low for Luminaries!

 Luminarias adorn El Paso as part of the Hispanic celebration of Christmas, creating a magical backdrop for family photos or social posts! As you explore the town to enjoy the luminaries, be sure to take a leisurely stroll along Scenic Drive at Rim Road.

Don’t Miss Winterfest

Downtown El Paso is brimming with festive cheer during WinterFest! Everyone is invited to participate in holiday-themed activities such as cookie decorating, caroling, live music, and visits with Santa. To wrap up your holiday celebration, be sure to find some time to skate under the stars at the outdoor ice-skating rink!

The post Holiday Events in El Paso Texas (Part One) appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

The Food!

We’ve mentioned before that El Paso is one of the best places for food in the country. Our city is famous for its rich culinary scene that seamlessly blends Mexican and American flavors. Influenced by the region’s unique cultural heritage, El Paso boasts a variety of delicious dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Whether you’re grilling by the pool at Cantera, sharing dishes at a potluck, or enjoying local restaurants and the holiday festivals to come, we toast to you this holiday season!

Don’t forget the craft breweries and local bars, many of which offer signature drinks and live music. It’s easy to see why El Paso is a favorite for food lovers everywhere.

Friendly Faces, and Family Friendly, Everywhere!

El Paso is known for its relaxed vibe and friendly people, and without a doubt, locals here are some of the nicest you’ll meet.

Whether you’re new to El Paso or have lived here for years, you’ll find people ready to welcome you. The city is diverse, and you’ll often hear many different languages as you walk around.

El Paso is also a great place for families, and we’ve dedicated many of our blogs to sharing the family-friendly lifestyle you can enjoy here all year.

Some of our best advice for you has been gleaned from the Family Destinations Guide. Within their exceptional website, they offer some of the best ways to enjoy family time close to home or just a short scenic drive away. Here’s a quick list with links to get you on your merry way!

UTV Adventures

I Fly Indoor Skydiving

El Paso Zoo

El Paso Museum of History

Insights Science Discovery

The Music, of course!

Throughout El Paso, there’s always something exciting happening here.

You can find live music all over the city, with everything from traditional Mexican folk to contemporary indie rock.

With so many choices, we’ve made it easy to find your next concert. Check out the options below—we hope to see you there!

Music Venues in El Paso

Concerts in El Paso

Music Festivals in El Paso

We hope you enjoyed our list of things to be thankful for in El Paso, Texas.

From our family to yours, we wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving.

The post Top Things to Be Thankful for in El Paso, Texas (Part Two) appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

Several years ago, we published a few of our family-friendly super-easy Easter recipes that were a great hit. That edition was so popular, we thought we would dive into our recipe box and find some new ideas to help you have a festive and stress-free Easter Bruch to come at our apartment community in El Paso, Texas.

And as with all our favorite recipes, we rely on the very talented and passionate chefs of TasteofHome.com.

From our family at Cantera apartments in El Paso to yours, may you have a very blessed Easter season.

Super Easy Easter Coffee Cake

Recipe by Eleanor Harris, Cape Coral, Florida

Tested by Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2-3/4 cups sugar, divided
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups sour cream
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Super Easy Directions:

In a large bowl, cream butter and 2 cups sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda and salt; add alternately with sour cream, beating just enough after each addition to keep batter smooth.

Spoon a third of the batter into a greased 10-in. tube pan. Combine cinnamon, nuts and remaining 3/4 cup sugar; sprinkle one-third of mixture over batter in pan. Repeat layers twice. Bake at 350° until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 60-65 minutes. Cool for 15 minutes before removing from the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.

Asparagus, Bacon & Shallot Tart

Recipe by Paula Nolan, Granite Bay, California

Tested by Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Ingredients

• Dough for single-crust pie
• 1-pound fresh asparagus
• 6 thick-sliced center-cut bacon strips, coarsely chopped
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1-1/4 cups half-and-half cream
• 1-1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Directions

• Trim tough ends from asparagus. Reserve 12 spears; cut the remaining asparagus into 1/2-in. pieces.
• In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, 6-8 minutes; remove and drain. Add olive oil to skillet, then red onion, shallot and chopped asparagus; cook and stir until softened, 6-8 minutes. Stir in vinegar; cook 3 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Return bacon to pan; stir in tomatoes, parsley, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Spoon into crust.
• Whisk eggs and cream; stir in cheddar cheese until blended. Pour over top. Arrange reserved asparagus spears in a spoke pattern with tips facing outward. Sprinkle with Gruyere cheese. Bake until a knife inserted in center comes out clean, 25-30 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting.

Sugar Glazed Ham

Recipe by Carol Strong Battle, Heathsville, Virginia

Tested by Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (5 to 7 pounds)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons prepared mustard
• 1 to 2 tablespoons cider vinegar

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°. Place ham on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, score surface of ham with 1/4-in.-deep cuts in a diamond pattern. Cover and bake until a thermometer reads 130°, 1-1/2 to 2 hours.

The post Easey-peasy Easter Brunch Recipes appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

To continue to bring the holiday magic into your home at Cantera apartments in El Paso, we have picked some of our favorite movies presented by Hallmark for you to enjoy this year.

So, bring out the popcorn, cozy on up and get ready for our roundup of the most delightful Hallmark Christmas gems, along with a sprinkle of Hanukkah cheer.

The Christmas Doctor

Starring the fabulous Holly Robinson Peete, this festive film follows an ambitious traveling doctor who finds herself in a small town during the holidays. Will she find romance, a sense of belonging, and the magic of the season? Spoiler alert: we think so!

A Season for Miracles

Hold onto your sleigh bells because A Season for Miracles introduces none other than Laura Dern! Though it dives into some heavier themes, this tale still delivers holiday magic. A young woman takes her niece and nephew to escape the uncertainties of the world, finding sanctuary in the picture-perfect Christmas town of Bethlehem. With a guardian angel helping along the way, this film serves up some heartwarming holiday miracles!

Christmas Comes Twice

Get your time-traveling mittens ready for another classic hit featuring the brilliant Tamera Mowry. She’s an astrophysicist who takes a spin on a bewitched carousel at a Christmas carnival and is given a second chance with her true love. Holiday wishes really can come true!

Love, Lights, Hanukkah!

Finally, Hallmark brings us Love, Lights, Hanukkah, starring the beloved Ben Savage. This festive flick follows a restaurant owner who discovers her Jewish roots through a DNA test, sparking a delightful romance over eight magical nights. Talk about a holiday adventure!

The Christmas Train

A fan-favorite that rolls in with all the feels! Starring the dashing Dermot Mulroney, this film takes us on a ride from D.C. to L.A., where our cynical journalist meets a parade of colorful characters, including the fantastic Danny Glover and Joan Cusack. As he encounters their warmth and holiday spirit, his heart begins to thaw. All aboard the love train!  

Christmas Under Wraps

This movie features the ever-charming Candace Cameron Bure who plays a dedicated doctor uncovering the heartwarming secrets of her new Alaskan town. Can you guess the big holiday surprise hiding beneath the snow?

A Royal Christmas

And last but certainly not least, this family’s favorite features the incredible Lacey Chabert. Rumor has it, she’s not only one of the sweetest stars in Hollywood, but also a total holiday queen! We’re here for the royal enchantment and festive flair!

From our Cantera apartment community in El Paso, we wish you a warm and wonderful Christmas and Hanukkah season and a healthy and happy New Year to come!

The post Top Christmas Movies to Watch this Year! appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

The most wonderful time of the year is here, and it’s time to transform your home at Cantera apartments in El Paso into a festive wonderland!

Our ultimate guide to Christmas and Hanukkah decorating is packed with cheerful ideas that will fill your spaces with holiday spirit. Whether you’re draping glimmering lights on your tree, adorning your front door with a vibrant wreath, or creating a cozy atmosphere in every single corner, our tips will help you enjoy and make your home sparkle this season.

Holiday decor doesn’t have to break the bank or consume your precious time. We've curated a collection of delightful ideas that utilize small, budget-friendly decorations and clever furniture arrangements. So, you can curate the enchanting Christmas atmosphere you’ve always dreamed of without emptying your wallet!

Happy decorating!

• Infuse your home with a relaxing Scandinavian charm using a tight palette of red and white (with a hint of greenery from the tree) that inspires warmth and coziness in this lovely Utah home.
• Why stick to the traditional red and green? Embrace a pastel palette with lighter hues—think pretty pinks, delightful blues, and soft yellows that maintain a festive spirit.
• How adorable is this little tree? A vintage candy box perfectly serves as its stand, or for a fun twist, try a cookie tin for added charm!
• Add a sprinkle of cheer to your curtains by simply threading ribbons through Shiny Brites and tying them in a festive pattern.
• Drape an oversized garland across a headboard to add instant holiday cheer, swapping out accent pillows for plaid patterns to ramp up the festive ambiance.
• Craft your own enchanting garland using dried navel and blood oranges, twine, and decorative hooks—a zesty addition to your holiday decor!
• Sprinkle some Christmas cheer in your kitchen with a small wreath elegantly hanging from the window to remind you of the magic of the season while you cook and clean.
• Count down the days until Santa’s arrival with an adorable, neutral-toned advent calendar made from brown craft paper, it's sweet and simple!
• Transform the vibe of your space! A towering garland that reaches from floor to ceiling enhances the height of this cozy stone fireplace, creating an airy atmosphere.
• Make your front door sing with charm! Create these festive "bells" using mini-Bundt pans and molds, complete with ornaments for clappers—finish with a bow and greenery for festive flair.
• Infuse nostalgia and warmth into your living area with a sparse alpine balsam fir in an antique copper pot, complete with bird ornaments and dried-orange garland for an organic touch.
• Incorporate non-seasonal items in festive colors to elevate every nook of your home—think coolers and camp lanterns that can seamlessly bring in holiday flair!
• Gather your family’s favorite Saint Nicks! Start collecting these charming figurines, they'll create a delightful, mismatched display atop your mantel or bureau.
• Host joyful crafting sessions around the dining table, creating “trees” from Styrofoam cones wrapped in baker's twine and topped with star cookie cutters.
• A well-placed wreath and a few holiday decor items are just the right touch to make your kitchen feel merry and bright!
• Don't forget to illuminate every corner of your home! A simple string of garland can even turn your bathroom into a merry escape.
• Bring back memories and warmth by stringing together old winter mittens—this delightful craft is perfect for kids’ rooms!

So, gather your loved ones, heat up some hot cocoa, and let’s deck the halls with joy and laughter this holiday season!

The post Easy and Affordable Holiday Decorating Ideas appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

When you live in a close-knit apartment community like Cantera apartments in El Paso, celebrations are not just traditional, they are a delightful experience that brings families together for all the right reasons!

To prepare you for a festive 4th of July, we've compiled a list of the highlights of events you can enjoy this year. For more ideas, click on VisitElPaso.com; it’s one of the best sources for things to do in El Paso! 

El Paso’s 4^th of July Parades

On the West Side of El Paso ~
For over 20 years, the Rotary Club of West Paso has organized the biggest parade of the year, and this year is no exception. Since 1962, when the Club was established, this Rotary organization has donated over $150,000 to community organizations promoting youth programs and quality of life for all.

There are lots of perfect spots to view the classic and crazy floats, marching bands, and so much more. See the parade route below, and be sure to bring your chairs and sunscreen. Then sit back and celebrate!

See the complete West El Paso Parade Route through this link to the Rotary website.

On the East Side of El Paso

The Del Norte Lions Club hosts this annual 4^th of July parade that starts at 9:00 am.  Here’s the parade route.

• The festivities start at Hanks High School
• It continues west on Montwood
• Turns north on Yarbrough
• Then west on Album Park

4^th of July Fireworks in El Paso

Here is where you can look high into the sky in El Paso to enjoy 4^th of July fireworks displays.

El Paso County Fourth of July Stars and Stripes

Come one, come all to enjoy a full day of fun that lasts into the night. The festivities start at 3:00 p.m., and the fireworks are estimated to start at 9:20 p.m. If you are going to the park just to see the fireworks, get there before the gates close at 8:00 p.m.

El Paso Chihuahuas GECU Independence Day Celebration

Here’s a classic way to enjoy the day. Get tickets to the game against the Las Vegas Aviators, and then stick around for the fireworks display. All the fun begins at 6:35 p.m. and you can get your tickets and more details by visiting Epchihuahuas.com.
Western Playland Amusement Park July 4^th Fireworks Celebration

Kids of all ages love the Western Playland Amusement Park, and this 4th of July, it’s a must-do event for the summer. The Park opens at 4:00 p.m. and offers all the rides, games, and food you need to enjoy before the fireworks shoot into the sky at 9:00 p.m.

Wet ‘N Wild Waterworld Fourth of July Fireworks

Cool off from the summer heat and drive up to our favorite waterpark north of El Paso. As the home of the biggest wave pool in Texas, Wet ‘N Wild knows how to do summer right! And this 4^th of July, they top it off with fireworks planned for 9:00 p.m.

Pop Goes the Fort Concert & Fireworks

For a lovely way to celebrate our independence, get your tickets now for this traditional evening at Fort Bliss. The “Pop Goes the Fort Concert and Fireworks” starts at 4:00 p.m. with music presented by the 1^st Armored Division Band, followed by the El Paso Symphony Orchestra at 7:00 p.m. The fireworks are planned to conclude this annual celebration.

The post 4th of July Parades and Fireworks in El Paso, Texas appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

Earlier this month we posted some top spots to seek out Santa and see some of El Paso’s most spectacular light displays. To keep the holiday spirit in full swing, we are now posting some of the Cantera apartment family’s favorite shows to see this time of the year. 
Whether you chose to celebrate Christmas and Hannukah this year, we wish you a safe and memorable season!

Les Misérables
December 14 – 16, 2023
The Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center

Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption-a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. The magnificent score of Les Misérables includes the songs "I Dreamed a Dream," "On My Own," "Bring Him Home," "One Day More" and many more. Recommended for ages 12+.

Merry-Achi Christmas
December 16, 2023
The Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center

The Mariachi Sol de Mexico will perform a Merry-Achi Christmas performance for all to enjoy.  It’s another one of these events that everyone should experience this time of the year.
Get into the spirit now and buy your tickets right here.

A Drag Queen Christmas
December 19, 2023
The Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center

The longest running drag tour in America returns to El Paso. Get ready for your favorite queens performing live on stage. We've got Winners, Fan Favorites, OGs, Miss Congeniality, plus queens from Season 15 and All Stars 8. There’s a special VIP Meet and Greet option this year too.  Get your tickets now as they always sells out.

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
December 26, 2023
The Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center

The beloved family tradition is back: NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet! Gather your loved ones for the warm-glow-nostalgia of America's favorite Christmas celebration. Experience the extraordinary international cast and Ukrainian Principal Artists performing at the peak of classical European Ballet.  

How the Grinch Found Jesus
December 10 & 11, 2023
CrossPoint Church

Now here’s another one that might just be on the top of our favorite list of productions. It’s an unusual yet spirited approach to How the Grinch Stole Christmas.  Ideal for the whole family with cookies and cocoa, too!

From our family to yours, may you enjoy all the magic of El Paso this season and in the year to come!

The post Things to Do and See in El Paso this Holiday Season (2) appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.

“Tis the season to spoil all your senses as El Paso fills the air with holiday cheer.  From Santas to sparking lights to shopping until the stockings are stuffed, our family at Cantera apartments in El Paso has a full list of fun for you!
No matter where you go or what you do, we send our best wishes for a safe and memorable Christmas and Hannukah to come!

Light up the Night!
El Paso is not shy when it comes to decorating the city in all directions!  There are so many spots to take in the sparkling nights throughout our festive city.  Here’s a list of our favorite places for a perfect ‘date night’ or family outing.

• Eastridge Neighborhood has always been known as one of the ‘must see’ spots during the Christmas season.  It’s magical in every term of the word with some of the most spectacular displays of lights in El Paso.  We like to walk the blocks and found that parking on Deby Lewis is a good spot to do so. 
• San Jacinto Plaza in Downtown El Paso is a great place to get holiday photos amid the lit-up displays. There are also spin scooters you can rent to enjoy a ride around the Downtown area.
• Ascarate Park is one of the many places to be this holiday season. At the top of the ‘must see and do’ list are their annual “Lights on the Lake” display. On December 11, bring your four-legged family members to their annual “Santa Paws Pet Walk.”
• Sun City is another top spot to capture the magic of the holidays.  It’s a perfect place to gather the whole family to capture our annual photo in front of their 60-foot Christmas tree! And it’s always a treat to tune into KISS-FM to listen to classic songs while driving along the colorful streets.
• Last but never least, the lights to see in El Paso are in the Lower Valley at Speaking Rock Entertainment Center.

Seek out Santa!  
Here are some highlights for where to find Old’ Saint Nick this month.  Be sure to call ahead or check the shopping center’s websites for the most up-to-date times and locations. Some also suggest you make a reservation or bring non-perishable food to donate to those who need it most.
Many of them also offer special activities during the month, including special times for special-needs children.
No matter where you go, be sure to thank the elves who make this happen every year!
The recommendations below come from the popular ElPasoMom.com website.  For a full list of where to find Santa in El Paso this year, click into this link.

Santa Magic Photo Experience at Sunland Park Mall
Pre-reservations are encouraged with walk-up visits welcomed on a first-come basis.  For more information, visit the Mall’s website.
Pre-booking your Santa Magic photo experience is encouraged. Walk-up visits are available as space permits at participating locations. Sensitive-friendly Santa times are available too! Find out more details here.

Santa Photo Experience at Cielo Vista Mall
Here’s a good spot to take children who aren’t quite sure about Santa.  They have special times set aside to ensure each child has a merry experience this year. 
 
Shop and See Santa, Too! 
Meet Santa at Wonderland’s Cabela’s. Advanced reservations are required.  

Bassett Place
Stuff those stockings with gifts from Bath and Body Works, and see Santa right next door, too! 

El Paso Winterfest
Any day of the week during December through the 21st, Jolly Ole St. Nick will be ready to greet your little ones at Winterfest.
To experience more of the magic in El Paso this season, tune into our next blog this month.

The post Things to Do and See in El Paso this Holiday Season appeared first on Cantera Apartments Blog.