Minerpalooza rallies the start of the 2019 UTEP football season

The start of the college football season has a sound — and you can hear it already.

Before dawn Friday, the UTEP band, cheerleaders and spirit teams began fine-tuning their acts ahead of Minerpalooza.

One of UTEP’s longstanding back-to-school traditions, Minerpalooza features live entertainment, interactive activities and a variety of food vendors.

“We want to give El Paso and the fans a fun and energetic night in the Sun Bowl,” said Daniel Veale, Asst. Director of Athletic Marketing at UTEP. “Our student athletes are rocking these great t-shirts donated by Nike and we are really excited to share everything El Paso with the entire community,” he said.

In light of the tragic August 3 shooting and the death of Luke Laufenberg, UTEP has planned for an “El Paso Strong” weekend.

The 21-year-old tight died before he could suit up for the Miners. He was diagnosed with a rare form of Leukemia and appeared to beat the disease when he received a scholarship to play for UTEP. Head Coach Dana Dimel said Laufenberg embodied the spirit and heart of a Miner and left a profound mark on the program. His family, including his father, former Cowboys quarterback Babe Laufenberg, will be at the game Saturday for a special ceremony.

“El Paso Strong Weekend” begins with Minerpalooza Friday night and continues Saturday with the Miners’ opening football game against Houston Baptist.

Minerpalooza is from 6 to 11 p.m. Friday at Sun Bowl Drive and Glory Road. The 29th annual festival is free and open to the public.

Kickoff is at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Sun Bowl.

KVIA 2019