El Paso’s most iconic holiday tradition is officially lighting up the season again and it’s just in time for when families and friends from out of town will be making their way back to El Paso for Thanksgiving festivities.

WinterFest returns on November 22, 2025, bringing back the beloved Scherr Legate Lights Parade, the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a full night of entertainment that transforms downtown into a glowing winter wonderland. If you’ve been looking for something festive (and free!) to do with the family, consider this your holiday plans secured.

Festivities kick off at 5 PM in San Jacinto Plaza with the Tree Lighting Ceremony. Mariachi Los Dragones, DaVinci Folklorico, and Telemundo 48’s Joselyne Ortega and Karla Mariscal will help count down to the moment the city’s massive holiday tree lights up the night. Performances continue throughout the evening, featuring Orgullo De Mi Tierra, La Original Sonora, Banda La Conquistadora, and DJ G Cue keeping the energy up.

Courtesy: El Paso WInterFest via Instagram

Courtesy: El Paso WInterFest via Instagram

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Scherr Legate Lights Parade

Then, at 6 PM, the Scherr Legate Lights Parade makes its grand return. The parade winds through downtown — starting on Mills and Kansas and ending at Campbell and San Antonio — filling the streets with illuminated floats, dancers, music, and thousands of spectators ready to kick off the season.

Whether you’re a yearly attendee or a first-timer, WinterFest is one of El Paso’s most cherished traditions and it is a chance for families to come together, make memories, and welcome the magic of the holidays in the heart of downtown.

Can’t make it in person? You can still catch every sparkling moment live on:
• City of El Paso YouTube (@CityOfElPasoTX)
• Telemundo 48 (48.1)
• Texas Fast Channel on Roku
• City TV U-Verse 99 & Spectrum 1300

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