El Paso County is preparing to mark the nation\u2019s 250th birthday with what it says will be one of the largest Fourth of July celebrations in the Borderland, including a fireworks show planned for July 4 at Ascarate Park.<\/p>\n
County officials, Fort Bliss leadership, community partners, and special guests spoke at a press conference on Tuesday announcing the event. <\/p>\n
The press conference unveiled the plans for the county\u2019s Independence Day celebration and highlighted the partnership between El Paso County and Fort Bliss\u2019 1st Armored Division. <\/p>\n
The event is also set to welcome the City of Socorro as it announces its own Independence Day celebration, described as a region-wide effort to honor the milestone.<\/p>\n
Organizers said the planned July 4, 2026, celebration will feature live entertainment, military vehicle displays, food vendors, commemorative coin giveaways, family activities, and fireworks.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey are bringing the 1st Armored Division brass brand. We\u2019ll always have our fireworks display. We\u2019ll have food trucks and a live band that will be playing, it\u2019s going to be 915 Live, playing, there\u2019s all kinds of activities that will be happening in the park,” said Tim Bolton, the director of Parks and Recreation of El Paso County.<\/p>\n
The swimming pool and golf courses will be open to the public. <\/p>\n
\u201cEvery year we try to make this bigger and bigger, and with the 250 anniversary, I think it\u2019s going to be our biggest year yet,\u201d Bolton said. <\/p>\n
Below are the events happening for the celebration:<\/p>\n
The Ascarate Pool will have a public swimming session from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Adults $3 and Youth $2.<\/p>\n
Food Trucks will be set up within the park on the east side of the lake in the Special Events area, where an assortment of food options will be available from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.<\/p>\n
America 250 Commemorative Coin – The first 250 guests attending the event can redeem a commemorative coin marking the holiday\u2019s 250th anniversary at dedicated booths set up around the park.<\/p>\n
America\u2019s Bravest – In partnership with Fort Bliss and the 1st Armored Division, attendees will have the unique opportunity to explore a display of military vehicles showcasing Fort Bliss\u2019s military fleet. The celebration will also feature live performances by the 1st Armored Division Band, presenting a variety of musical ensembles throughout the event.<\/p>\n
Picnic Party, which promises a spectacular view of the fireworks with the best seats in the park. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Ascarate Administrative Office: $45 adults (18+) and $10 youth (6-17). The ticket includes dinner from Clasico, a parking pass, door prizes, backyard picnic games and live music by the \u201cThe Live 915.\u201d Children under the age of five do not require a ticket; however, a dinner plate will not be included. Doors open at 5:00 p.m.<\/p>\n
The Firework Display will take place on the west side of the lake at approximately 9:20 p.m., offering optimal viewing for everyone within the park.<\/p>\n
Parking will be $5 per vehicle, and no charge for those who walk into the park. <\/p>\n
Picnic shelters are free and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve a picnic shelter, fees start at $50, and the deadline to reserve a shelter is June 30th. <\/p>\n
For more information, please call 915-273-3501. All reserved picnic shelters must check in by 4:00 pm on Saturday, July 4th to avoid forfeiting the rental. No refunds will be given to late check-ins. The park will close at 11:00 p.m.<\/p>\n