Exciting El Paso Events: Bark Wars and Cinco de Mayo Celebrations

EL PASO, Texas — Be ready for a week full of excitement in El Paso as multiple cultural and civic events take place. On Saturday, May 3, El Paso Animal Services invites pet lovers to join in Bark Wars: Revenge of the Sit from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 5001 Fred Wilson Ave. This Star Wars-themed event will include free pet adoptions, low-cost vaccinations from Vista Hills Animal Hospital, and a pet costume contest at 2 p.m.

In addition to pet festivities, attendees can enjoy puppy yoga at 11 a.m., laser tag, carnival games, food trucks, and live music. Both pets and humans are encouraged to dress up in costumes.

The El Paso Mexican American Cultural Center will also host a family-friendly Cinco de Mayo celebration on May 3 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 201 W. Franklin Ave. This free event will showcase live mariachi and folklorico performances, along with hands-on activities exploring the history of the holiday. Food lovers can experience culinary tastings such as mole, and those interested in fitness can participate in a mural bike ride, cardio session, and yoga class to celebrate National Fitness Day.

Later that same day, from 2 to 10 p.m., El Paso’s inaugural Michelada Fest will take place at the intersection of Main and Kansas streets. Hosted by local hip-hop artist Krystall Poppin, the event promises performances by various artists, including Snow Tha Product and Tito Torbellino Jr. Attendees can indulge in music, dancing, food, and micheladas made by local vendors, with free admission for children 12 and under.

On Thursday, April 30, the Consulate General of Mexico will open the art exhibition “Color Esperanza – Manos Pequeñas, Grandes Sueños” from 6 to 8 p.m. at 910 E. San Antonio Ave. The exhibition features artwork by children who use painting to express their emotions, and admission is free to the public.

Chapoteo Water Park will begin its season with a Cinco de Mayo-themed event at 11 a.m. on May 3, featuring various activities and food. Admission ranges from $12 to $15 for children under 48 inches tall, with discounts available for seniors and military members. Other water parks, including Lost Kingdom Water Park and Camp Cohen, will open later in May, offering special activities for their launch.

On Sunday, May 4, community members are invited to a bike safety event at San Jacinto Plaza at 9 a.m. This will include educational courses for children, bike vendors, food trucks, and a mural bike ride. Participants are encouraged to dress up for the “May the Fourth be with You” theme.

A Fam Jam Concert will take place on Friday, May 2, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre, featuring live music from the Mark Odom Band. Children will have access to activities such as face painting and yard games.

For those interested in exploring nature, the Old Tin Mine Hike will be available from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on May 3 at Chuck Heinrich Memorial Park. Guided tours will lead participants through historical mining sites, with a small fee for admission.