Your guide to WinterFest 2026

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Downtown El Paso will once again transform into a winter wonderland for the annual WinterFest. This year, the City of El Paso said WinterFest will be "brighter and better than ever" with more than one million lights!

WinterFest kicks off Nov. 21 with the Sherr Legate Lights Parade at 6 p.m. More than 70 groups will march the Downtown route, including marching bands and dance groups. The WinterFest website said a parade route will release soon.

The city recommended going to WinterFest early on parade day to secure a spot.

Santa Claus will also make his first appearance of the season. Families can take free pictures with him throughout the WinterFest season.

After the parade, visitors can enjoy holiday magic in Downtown for six weeks.

Attractions at WinterFest include an outdoor ice-skating rink at the Convention Center Plaza. The Rink will close Jan. 3.

The city said local vendors will offer handmade gifts and food for purchase.

Visitors can also catch a movie at WinterFest. The El Paso Museum of Art and Mexican American Cultural Center organized free holiday movie screenings with the El Paso Community Foundation Plaza Classic Film Festival.

In the heart of Downtown, San Jacinto Plaza will stay lively with local musicians, dancers and other performers. At the plaza, lights will glow from 5-11 p.m. daily. The city will also set up the famous 45-foot Christmas tree.

For those wanting a fun challenge, San Jacinto Plaza will host loteria game nights on select dates in December.

In 2025, nearly 600,000 people attended WinterFest, according to the city.