El Paso, Texas – Destination El Paso is inviting residents and visitors to celebrate the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos with a free, family‑friendly festival at the Downtown Visitor Information Center. The kickoff will be a press conference and ribbon‑cutting ceremony on Friday, October 16 at 6:30 p.m., marking the start of three themed weekends.

Festival schedule and themes

Each weekend will spotlight a different theme, giving the community fresh experiences as the celebration unfolds:

• Weekend One (October 16‑17): “Pawprints on Our Hearts” – A tribute to the pets who brought joy and companionship to El Paso families.
• Weekend Two (October 23‑24): “Stars Remembered” – Honoring the entertainers, athletes and cultural icons whose work inspired generations.
• Weekend Three (October 30‑31 and November 1): “Always with Us” – A heartfelt celebration of family members and friends who have passed, emphasizing the enduring bonds of love.

All events are free and open to the public, ensuring that families, seniors, students and tourists can participate without cost.

Activities and attractions

Festival attendees can enjoy a variety of activities that reflect the spirit of Día de los Muertos:

• Live music and cultural performances showcasing local talent.
• Food vendors offering traditional Mexican dishes and festive treats.
• Artisan booths where local creators sell handcrafted items.
• Interactive stations for creating altars, face painting and learning about the holiday’s history.
• Designated areas for families to share stories and memories of loved ones.

Destination El Paso will post detailed programming, vendor lists and entertainment schedules on its social‑media channels @VisitElPaso, allowing the community to plan their visits.

Community impact

The free celebration aligns with El Paso’s commitment to cultural enrichment, tourism promotion and family‑centered community events. By offering a multi‑week festival that honors both human and animal companions, the city reinforces its reputation as a welcoming destination that values tradition, faith and family.

Local businesses are expected to benefit from increased foot traffic, while the event provides a safe, inclusive environment for residents of all ages to gather and celebrate shared heritage.

How to attend

The festival will take place at the Downtown Visitor Information Center and Pedestrian Pathway 1, Civic Center Plaza (postal code 79901). No tickets or registration are required. Attendees are encouraged to follow Destination El Paso on social media for real‑time updates and any weather‑related notices.

For more information, contact Destination El Paso at (915) 555‑1234 or visit the official website.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.