El Paso Labor Day Weekend Events

What’s there to do in the area this long Labor Day weekend? A lot, actually. Most of the events, like the Labor Day BBQ and the St. Anthony’s Bazaar, have become a family tradition for many El Pasoans while others, like the Sun City Music Festival, are relative newcomers to the scene.

But whether the tradition is new or old one thing is for sure; the unofficial end of summer is filled with festivals and fiestas that offer something for every taste – and taste bud! Here in chronological order are the Labor Day weekend events in our area:

Fiesta de las Flores - The annual three-day celebration of Mexican music and food emphasizes El Paso Hispanic heritage and culture. This year’s featured performers include Sunny Ozuna & Sunliners, and Johnny Hernandez. Friday August 30 - Sunday September 1 at the El Paso County Coliseum, 4100 Paisano. Admission is $10 in advance, $15 at the gate; 12 and under free if accompanied by parent. Events begin at 6 p.m. nightly. Website

Sun City Music Festival - The glow-stick beat bash billed as “Texas' Largest Electronic Music Festival” will take over Ascarate Park Saturday and Sunday, August 31-September 1. Saturday’s headliners are Armin Van Buuren and Steve Aoki, and Sunday’s headliners are Tiesto and Alesso. 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM daily. Admission prices vary. Website

St. Anthony’s Bazaar – The annual fundraiser for the Franciscan seminary is three days of carnival games, live entertainment and delicious bazaar food, including the legendary gorditas. Free admission. Saturday August 31 – Monday September 2 at the St. Anthony’s Seminary, 4501 Hastings (at Crescent). Events begin daily from noon to 11 p.m.

Harvest Wine Fest - Celebrate the history of New Mexico Wines and sample wines from wineries around the state. 15 food vendors, more than 50 arts and crafts vendors, live music, and a grape stomp contest at the top of every hour round out the entertainment. Admission is $15, includes souvenir wine glass; under 21 free if accompanied by parent of legal guardian. Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday through Monday, August 31-September 2 at the Southern New Mexico State Fairgrounds, Las Cruces. Website

Labor Day BBQ - Rock, ride and feast at Western Playland Monday, September 2. You can check out the concerts and rides, including the brand new Hurricane rollercoaster, and feast on BBQ chicken quarters, ribs, brisket, brats, hot dogs, and more. Admission is $15.00 (plus tax) in advance, $20.00 plus tax at the gate! Concert headliners are Hoobastank and Filter. Gates open at 2 p.m. Website