Things To Do This Weekend in El Paso – Free Concerts, Farmers Markets & More

Here’s what’s going on in and around El Paso this weekend, August 16 – August 18. Some events are free, some will cost you a few bucks:

FRIDAY:

Alfresco! Fridays – Live music by local bands outside in the Arts Festival Plaza located between the El Paso Museum of Art and the Plaza Theatre. This week, Captain Radio. 6 p.m. No outside food or beverages, or pets allowed. More Info

Friday at the Fire – Live music by local bands set against the ambiance of the Freedom Crossing outdoor fireplace. 6- 11 p.m. This week, Sobredosis del Sabor. DJ Darrin kicks the night off at 6 p.m.

FRIDAY – SATURDAY:

Movies in the Canyon - Blockbuster movies shown on an inflatable screen in the picturesque McKelligon Canyon Amphitheater. Showtime 8:30 p.m. Free admission, concessions available (no food or beverages may be brought in). Friday’s movie is The Hunger Games and Saturday its Madagascar 3. More Details

SATURDAY:

Freedom Crossing Family Play Date – The family-themed event begins with a showing of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius at the Grand Theatre at 10 a.m. Tickets for all ages are $3.50 and include a kid’s size popcorn and soda. Free activities for kids, such as crafts, giant bouncy castle and slide, face painting, and visits from Captain Jack Sparrow, Tinkerbell follows at 11 a.m. in the Play Area and runs through 2 p.m. Freedom Crossing, 11611 Haan Road at Ft. Bliss

Downtown Artist and Farmers Market – The market offers the chance to shop for original arts and crafts and regionally grown produce in an outdoor setting while enjoying entertainment featuring local artists, food vendors and free activities for the entire family. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Union Plaza District (near The Garden Restaurant) along Anthony Street. Free parking. More Details

Farmer’s Market at Ardovino’s Desert Crossing – The annual “producers only” market featuring area farmers, backyard gardeners and artisans selling organic and pesticide-free vegetables, locally-made goat cheeses, natural free range chickens and eggs, native plants for home and yard, fresh-baked breads and salsas. Coffee, house-made pastries and fresh-squeezed juices available; brunch served in the restaurant beginning at 8 a.m. (575) 589-0653, ext. 3

Mayapan Farmer’s Market – The Annual Mayapan Farmers’ Market continues at Cafe Mayapan. Fresh, local produce and menudo will be available. 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Café Mayapan, 2000 Texas Avenue.

SUNDAY:

Mission Trails Art Market – The open-air market features arts and crafts, music, and the ‘Billy The Kid Breakout Show’ by The Pistoleros De San Elizario reenactors. 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday at Veteran’s Memorial Plaza, 1500 Main in San Elizario. Free admission; pet friendly. 851-0093

Corner Tavern Summer Patio Live Music Series – Mostly local classic rock and jazz bands jamming for free on the patio from 6-9 p.m. This week, Prime. 543-6000

Zin Valle Vineyards Free Music Sundays - Bring your family and friends, pack a picnic and enjoy the afternoon at Zin Valle Vineyards. Free wine tasting and music. 12 Noon to 5 p.m.This week, guitarist and singer James Springer. More Info

Melodies at the Park - This annual series highlights a variety of local acts while showcasing some of the city’s parks. All shows are free and start at 7 p.m. This week April Ticket Duo will be performing at Armijo Park, 710 E. 7th. Call 544-0753