Blog

Summer may be over, but that doesn't mean all the fun outdoor activities you enjoy doing with your friends or family have to wait until next year. The warm months of fall in El Paso are filled with exciting events that have a little something for everyone. Here are some of the most interesting things happening in and around El Paso these coming months. Mesilla Jazz Happening The first weekend of October marks the 18th edition of this spectacular annual event that takes place each fall in the famous Mesilla Plaza. Organized by The Mesilla Valley Jazz & Blues Society with the purpose of promoting jazz and blues in El Paso, this free event is not only a delight for lovers of the genre but also for casual music lovers looking to spend some fun few days outdoors. more Hosted by jazz aficionado Trevor Hodgkin, this lively fall event offers spectators an eclectic mix of live jazz and blues performers. Live shows start on Friday afternoon and end on Sunday evening, so get your friends and family and have a weekend picnic while listening to some quality music. Dia de Los Muertos Festival For a different kind of celebration, there's the annual Dia de Los Muertos festival hosted by Concordia Cemetery. The event is a tribute to the classic Mexican tradition of celebrating the loved ones who are no longer with us. Although the premise may not be the happiest one, this is indeed a celebration in both cultural and spiritual ways, as it celebrates their existence instead of mourning their loss. Attendees will be treated to food trucks, live music, Mexican performers, poetry readings, and participants wearing traditional Mexican clothing with the famous painted skulls on their faces called calaveras. El Paso Chopin Music Festival For the past 24 years, some of the best pianists in the world have gathered in El Paso's Chamizal National Memorial Theater to celebrate the works of legendary composer and pianist Frederic Chopin. Throughout the years, this festival has enjoyed excellent reviews from critics, and its concerts have been played in front of packed auditoriums. This year's edition sees performers from all over the world, featuring famous pianists such as Eric Zuber or Richard Dowling and also El Paso local Lucy Scarbrough. Concerts are scattered all over the fall period, and entrance is free. La Viña Winery Harvest Festival New Mexico's oldest and most famous winery hosts this lively and cheerful festival that takes place this year in mid-October. Celebrating the fall harvest, this event offers 20 different types of wine to be tasted or bought by participants. Included in the admission fee are a souvenir glass and the chance to taste nine different types of wine. For people in and around El Paso, summer doesn't have to end in September. Thanks to the wonderful mix of events happening here each fall, outdoor fun can stretch way beyond Thanksgiving, and each evening or weekend can be a different kind of celebration that can be shared with friends or family. Image via Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

The amount of fuel your car uses is mostly down to your choice of vehicle and its fuel-saving technology. However, although cars are getting more fuel efficient every year, there are still some easy steps that you can take to slightly reduce your fuel consumption. Although the reduction will not have an instant impact, the amount you'll be saving will add up to a lot of money in the long run. Here are some simple steps that you can take to save money on gas. Plan Your Drives You can not only save fuel by driving your car in a certain way but also by planning your trips in a smarter way. You probably take more trips than you need to and do it at times where traffic is at its peak. Of course, if you need to get to work or to a meeting at a specific time, there's little you can do about it. However, if you more analyze other trips that you have to make and group them together geographically, you may realize that you can get to more places in just one big trip, using much less gas than you would have if you'd taken individual trips to all those places. Also, by taking the time of day into consideration, you'll be saving gas by taking some trips outside rush hour. Remove Unnecessary Weight From Your Car Many people leave all sorts of heavy things in their trunks for months out of convenience. Leaving everything you don't need in your garage makes your car lighter, so you can get rid of all those suitcases, spare parts, bottles, and all sort of equipment that you may have back there. For every extra hundred pounds of weight added to your car, fuel consumption rises by as much as two percent, so figuring out how much you'll be saving in the long run by taking out all the heavy stuff is just a case of simple math. Avoid Being in a Rush This may be a good piece of advice to take in everyday life, anyway, but it definitely applies to saving fuel. Fast driving and late braking will greatly increase your chance of getting in an accident and raise your stress levels, so taking it easy would be a good idea even without the fuel-saving bonus. Driving calmly, anticipating the time and place where you can accelerate and break, and generally not rushing through town can save you about 30% of your fuel. Closing the Windows This is a valid advice when taking long drives because at constant high speeds, the car's aerodynamics play a major part in fuel consumption. It may sound counter-intuitive, but sometimes opening a window will cause more fuel to be used than by turning on the air conditioning system. So for commuters, driving with the windows closed and letting the car cut through the air the way it was designed to do will save you a lot of money over time. Image via Marco Verch | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

Unfortunately when you are driving, sometimes the unexpected happens. Whether it is unavoidable, such as a road hazard that damaging your tire, or is out of carelessness, such as locking yourself out of your car or running out of gas, roadside assistance can allow you to have someone there when you need them. There are many options to choose from when it comes to roadside assistance and it can sometimes be hard to decide which one will provide you the best value for the cost. If you are looking for a reliable roadside assistance provider check out the four best options listed below. Your Insurance Provider One of the first places to start when considering a roadside assistance package is with your current insurance provider. Most providers offer a roadside assistance program that covers lockouts, tire change, gas delivery, and even towing. These options are usually low in cost when added to your policy and there is the added benefit that they have the make model more and VIN number of your vehicle, allowing them to know all the particulars the moment you call. Be sure to inquire with your insurance company to make sure that roadside claims do not constitute insurance claims under your specific policy. AAA One of the most well-known names when it comes to roadside assistance is AAA, otherwise referred to as triple-A. AAA has established itself as a road service provider before the term was even commonly known. Their services encompass almost any kind of roadside assistance emergency you can think of including towing, lockouts, fuel delivery, emergency repair, tire repair, and jump starting. They will also come out for minor mechanical repairs and provide a one-day rental car when your vehicle needs to be taken in for repairs. While AAA is one of the most comprehensive, the service does cost more than most with an annual average of around $120. AllState Motor Club You don't have to be an Allstate insurance customer to take advantage of their roadside assistance Motor Club. Their most basic plan runs around $52 per year and covers up to $100 worth of roadside assistance that can be used for flat tires, tows, lockout fees, or fuel delivery. You pay the fee and Allstate will reimburse you up to $100. This allows you to be able to choose the specific vendor you want and reimburses you for the expenses. Plans increase up to the Platinum level which allows for up to $250 worth of reimbursement. Acura Owners Roadside Assistance For Acura owners, the best option you can choose to protect your Acura in the event of a roadside emergency is Acura Owners Roadside Assistance. Through their Total Luxury Care program, new Acura owners can enjoy their renowned roadside assistance for free for the first four years that you own your car. With the service, you can enjoy 24-hour emergency and travel services, Acura's concierge service roadside assistance, and other privileges only available to Acura owners. Don't let roadside emergencies get you down. Keep your Acura protected from roadside hazards and emergencies by taking advantage of one of the roadside services listed above. Image via Wiegand Family | Licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0

Launched in 1986, Acura was the first Japanese luxury car to hit the North American market. Just over 30 years later, the brand has become a household name. As one of the most trusted brands in the automotive business, Acura excels where others fail; by providing a quality product at a price that's attractive to entry-level and veteran luxury car buyers. However, even some of the most avid fans may not know everything about this iconic brand. Here are just a few interesting facts about Acura. 2017 Acura NSX: A Hybrid of Firsts After a 12-year hiatus from the market, the Acura NSX returned in 2017, earning universal acclaim from just about anyone who sees this beauty. The exotic looks of the first generation transformed it into a modern marvel, turning heads at every auto show and dealership that was lucky enough to get one. more But it's what lies under the hood that made the Acura NSX a game changer. A 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 coupled with three electric motors produces 573 horsepower and gives the NSX the distinction of being the first supercar to combine these elements. Paired with a nine-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission, the hybrid for hybrid haters goes from 0-60 in 3.1 seconds and tops out at 191 mph, effectively shedding any misconception that a hybrid can't double as a speed phenom. Created by Honda In the 1980s, the luxury car market was controlled by just a handful of European and American companies. The problem is that these companies were slow to revolutionize their models and designs, opting for a reactive approach to their competitors in the marketplace. Several years before Acura's founding, Honda found this inviting gap in the marketplace and took the initiative, creating Acura in 1986. Although Acura started with just two models, it redefined the luxury brand while also bringing about fierce competition between the big players in the industry. The result is a standalone Acura brand that's just as well known as its parent company. The Legend and the Integra Acura's 2018 lineup consists of six vehicles, but when the company debuted in 1986 it came with just two models: the Legend and the Integra. The full-size, executive-class Legend was an upscale sedan that was in production from 1986 to 1995, selling over 477,000 units. That said, the Integra is still held in high regard and is widely heralded as Acura's best offering ever. Built from 1986 to 2001, this sporty compact was a high-performance machine, offering stunning aesthetics and an interior to match. With sales totaling nearly 800,000, the Integra remains the best-selling Acura of all time. That's why it comes as no surprise that many enthusiasts are hoping for a relaunch of this fan favorite. Despite the naysayers and critics, Acura has proven that Japanese automotive design is a hit across North America and other Western markets. While these facts shed some light on Acura's success story, perhaps the best of Acura is still yet to come. Rest assured, many fans will be waiting. Image via Greg Gjerdingen | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

The affordability of the 2018 Acura ILX will appeal to you if you don't have the budget for a high-end luxury vehicle but wish to enjoy the elegance and performance of a sleek-looking automobile. The 2018 Acura ILX is a front-wheel drive, premium compact sedan with four great reasons to make it worth driving. Exterior Design The tasteful modern exterior of the 2018 Acura ILX seems like a smaller version of the Acura TLX and the Acura RLX. Its distinctive feature is the LED headlamps with multiple lenses, which Acura calls the Jewel Eye. The LED brake lights shine faster than normal, giving quicker warning signals. The muscular contour of the vehicle is emphasized by the character line that runs along the side and pans out dramatically around the rear door handles. 17-inch wheels are part of the standard features, however, the A-Spec Package includes 18-inch wheels, side sills, fog lights, and a trunk spoiler. more Interior Luxury Four adults would be comfortably seated in the ILX, with its leatherette upholstery and heated front seats. The interior is quiet because of the active noise-cancelation system and the dual-zone climate control adds to the overall comfort. It comes with an intuitive dual-screen infotainment and navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity. The trunk has 12.3 cubic feet of storage space, which can be expanded when the rear seat is folded down. The A-Spec Package adds perforated suede upholstery with contrasting stitching, red instrument panel illumination, ebony headliner, and aluminum pedals. Safety Features The ILX has an impressive five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Although the 2018 model has not yet been tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2017 model received a Good score on most of the tests. To improve on the standard safety features of a rear-view camera with multiple views and the automatic headlamps, there is the AcuraWatch package with additional safety features. These include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and road departure mitigation. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering body construction helps to reduce and disperse forces in front crashes with another vehicle. Impressive Performance The 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder, engine is powered by 201 horsepower and 180 pounds to feet of torque. It also has a well-designed transverse layout that's lighter in weight and fuel-efficient. This effortless engine winds out rapidly, delivering good acceleration to match the robust, front-wheel drive transmission, which has a torque converter that smooths out the gear shifts. The eight-speed, dual-clutch, automatic transmission is particularly impressive when using the paddle shifters on winding roads. The ILX gives a sporty ride with a great steering feel and a well-tuned suspension. All in all, it's a comfortable, yet athletic drive. The 2018 Acura ILX compact sport sedan is an affordable option for a luxury vehicle. It comes in six trims: Standard, Special Edition, AcuraWatch Plus, Premium, Technology Plus, and A-Spec. Whichever model you decide on, you'll find that the above four reasons make driving the Acura ILX a delightful option. Image via Acura.com

El Paso is a great area for hiking. With an average of 200 days of sunshine each year and a point near the city that reaches over 7,000 feet, there are plenty of options for both beginners and experienced hikers. The Franklin Mountains State Park offers several hiking trails, and Billy Rogers Arroyo Park also has some trails. Check out these hiking trails in El Paso, Texas for your next day out. The Window on the Ron Coleman Trail The Ron Coleman trail is the perfect length for a day hike, and The Window is a well-known rock formation. The trail runs for 7 miles round trip with an elevation of 3,000 feet, and even though it is one of the more challenging trails in the area, the views from The Window are well worth it. Many hikers think that it offers the best view of the Franklin Mountains. more The El Paso Tin Mines Trail If you want a hike that the whole family can enjoy, head to the El Paso Tin Mines Trail. This hike keeps you in the lower elevations, but it still runs for over 6 miles, and it is a pet-friendly hike, so you can even bring your four-legged hiker with you. If you want to bring a flashlight, you can explore some of the mines along the way. Aztec Cave Trail The Aztec Cave Trail is a short hike, and it leads to caves where Native Americans once lived. You'll find the trailhead near the Tom Mays trail, and there is plenty of parking. The trail is mostly a straight shot up to the caves, which you can see from the base. The final section of the trail is fairly steep, and you might need to do some scrambling. Once you get to the caves, you can go inside. They are not too deep and have just enough room to get you some shade. Lost Dog Trailhead Check out the Lost Dog Trailhead for a good workout. This hike doesn't have a huge incline, making it a good choice for beginners, and it is also a favorite with the mountain bikers. The Lost Dog trails feature over 41 miles of trails, and for a long but doable hike, try the Tour de Lost Dog. This is a 14-mile hike with hills, vistas, and canyons to explore. There are even some views along the way where you can see three different states. Hueco Tanks State Historical Park History buffs should check out the 3-mile hike that runs through Hueco Tanks State Historical Park. This is an easy loop trail with rocks to climb up and over, along with some beautiful sights. Keep in mind that only 70 guests can enter the self-guided area of the park at one time, but you can call ahead to make a reservation. Make sure to check out these hiking trails in the El Paso area for your next hiking trip and enjoy the beautiful Texas scenery and weather. Image via Rolf Dietrich Brecher | Licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0

It's time to trade in your old car and upgrade to a new one, but how do you know what to get? With so many choices and all the new technology available, finding the right car can be a challenge. If you loved your old car, and it has been several years since you car-shopped, you'll see some significant differences in what is available. Take some time to research and follow these tips for picking out a new car to help find the right one. Think About Your Needs Before going to the dealership, you want to think about what you need in a vehicle. Make a list of what you need to have, whether it is extra seating for the kids or all-wheel drive for snowy winters. You'll also want to look at the type of driving you do. Will you need something fuel-efficient for a long commute to work, or do you need the power to tow a camper or boat on the weekends? If you have young kids, you'll also want to take into consideration how car seats fit in the vehicle and the cargo capacity. Think About What You Want After you decide what you need in a vehicle, you can think about what you want. Have you always wanted to drive a hybrid, or do you want to have the latest entertainment technology? Maybe after years of driving a sedan or minivan, you are ready for something sportier. Depending on your budget, you might have to compromise on some of your wants, but it is important to take them into consideration. Calculate Your Budget Look at your financial situation and calculate what you can afford for a car payment. You'll also want to consider what insurance will cost and how much it will cost you to register a new car. Keep in mind that all of this will depend on what type of vehicle you get and how much it is worth. Go for a Test Drive The best way to find out if you like a car and how it drives it to take it for a test drive. You should head down to your Acura dealership with some ideas of what you want, but keep an open mind, and take several models out for a drive. Make sure you test it on several types of roads, too. Head out on the highway to see how it accelerates and passes, and also drive it in town to get a feel for how it handles. Where Do You Live Your location is also a big factor in what you drive. If you live in the northeast, a convertible is not a good choice for your only vehicle, but if you live in sunny California, it is reasonable. If you live in the city, a smaller, more maneuverable vehicle is the better choice. Follow these tips to make sure you make the right choice for your new car. Image via Gamma Man | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

In just over three decades, Acura has grown from the first Japanese luxury car to one of the most revered automakers in the world. The key to their success isn't only design, ingenuity, and customer feedback, but also a proactive approach to research, development, and technology. The 2018 Acura fleet has more high-tech amenities than ever before, making your drive easier, better, and more entertaining. Improved Entertainment and Convenience With AcuraLink AcuraLink is perhaps the most comprehensive infotainment system ever created. Not only does it allow access to music and navigation, but it also has other services you won't find in other luxury vehicles. The latest generation of AcuraLink allows you to connect your Android or iOS-based mobile device for instant access to communication, apps, music and more. Additionally, a personal concierge is available 24 hours a day to book a hotel or flight, set up dinner reservations, or help you navigate a new city. The AcuraLink app is a nice addition to the infotainment system, providing features such as remote start and stop, remote lock and unlock, odometer readings, how much gas is in the tank, and a stolen vehicle locator, all with the touch of a button. more Enhanced Safety With AcuraWatch Safety is always a concern no matter where you're driving, whether it's to protect you from yourself or other drivers. With the AcuraWatch system, you can't ignore the road, but you can mitigate your chances of an accident. This advanced driver-assist safety system uses a mix of cameras, radar, and sensors to detect other motorists, obstacles, and the lines on the road, and alerts you with visual and aural cues. If you fail to steer efficiently or continue to veer or brake, AcuraWatch springs into action, offering steering assist or automatic emergency braking. Highlights of AcuraWatch include: Forward collision warning Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow Lane-keeping assist system with lane departure warning Multi-view rear camera Blind-spot information system With all of these features working in unison, it's no surprise that three of the six Acura models earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, while all models earned a perfect, five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Self-Driving Vehicles Although the technology doesn't hit the Acura RLX until 2020, the automated driving systems developed by Acura are certain to take the world and the industry by storm. As part of an effort to reduce traffic jams, eliminate driver stress, and improve the safety of roads around the country, this autonomous driving technology does the heavy lifting while allowing drivers to work on some of their own projects or unwind behind the wheel. While semi-autonomous driving options are currently hitting showrooms, the fully autonomous idea of Acura circumnavigates the issues of semi-autonomy while also becoming a pioneer in the segment. From safety to driving to entertainment, Acura's technology makes their vehicles a pleasure to drive. Once you get behind the wheel of one, you'll see why this luxury car manufacturer is a cut above the rest. Image via Randolf Lomo | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

El Paso doesn't get the same recognition as Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, or Houston, but that doesn't mean that it's not one of the best places in Texas to live or visit. With about 680,000 residents, it's smaller than other cities, making it easy to explore on your own. However, a tour of El Paso is one of the best ways to experience everything the city has to offer. From food and drink to landmarks and attractions, these El Paso tours are worth the price of admission. GeoBetty Tours If fitness and exercise are an important part of your life, explore El Paso on foot or mountain bike with GeoBetty Tours. When you book a tour with GeoBetty, a guide will take you through the most beautiful parts of the Chihuahuan Desert and the Franklin Mountains. Both of these amazing geographic locations feature diverse ecosystems with a variety of flora and fauna such as mountain lions, mule deer, coyotes, cacti, and succulents. GeoBetty offers packages or customized tours based on your interests, fitness level, skills, and times. Both hiking and mountain biking tours range from two to five hours with skill levels ranging from one to five. Prices start at $75 per person, $25 for each additional person, and $15 for youths (12-17). A Taste of El Paso Dining Tours A melting pot of cultures converges in El Paso, creating a diverse culinary scene unlike any other. With A Taste of El Paso Dining Tours, you can get your hands on some of the most delicious food in El Paso while learning about the culinary and historical influences of the city. Choose from an authentic Mexican dining experience or the Trail Hands Tour, which provides a trip to a ranch, a delicious steak, and a view of both El Paso and Juarez, Mexico, from Scenic Drive. The tours are available by appointment every day from 4 to 9 p.m. The cost is $95 per person. Self-Guided Downtown Walking Tour Some travelers like to explore at their own pace. With the self-guided downtown walking tour, you can do just that. Created by the Visit El Paso tourism board, this self-guided tour takes you through some of the most important buildings, parks, and architectural marvels that are part of the city's urban revitalization project. Just download the Visitor's Guide app for directions on the 90-minute tour, and stop off at the other shops and restaurants to your heart's content. Paso Del Norte Paranormal Society Ghost Tours One of the major cities in the Old West, El Paso has plenty of stories and secrets. Hop on board one of the Paso Del Norte Paranormal Society Ghost Tours to learn about some of the most ghastly, scandalous, and frightening events. This includes visits to haunted brothels and saloons, as well as places frequented by Billy the Kid, John Wesley Hardin, Doc Holiday, Wyatt Earp, and other Wild West lawmen and outlaws. Whether you're a fitness freak, a foodie, or just an adventurous explorer, you won't find any better way to soak in El Paso than through these exciting tours. You might just love them enough to take them on your next visit to the city. Image via uıɐɾ ʞ ʇɐɯɐs | Licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0

Founded in 1986, Acura has become a force in the luxury car world in a mere 30 years. While the lineup has changed dramatically over the years, the Japanese automaker sticks to its design and innovation as the keys to sales and success. If you're mulling over which luxury car to pull into the driveway, here are a few reasons your next vehicle should be an Acura. A Car for Everyone Acura has a car for everyone. That's a bold statement, but with six vehicles of varying design and features, it holds true. The entry-level Acura ILX offers younger buyers or those on a budget with a chance to get into the luxury market for far less than its competitors. For seasoned luxury car buyers, the TLX and the flagship RLX are both options that make sense. Laden with features, you get more bang for your buck. SUV enthusiasts get versatility and opulence in the form of the MDX and RDX, while the high-end NSX is a supercar that won't cost six figures to obtain. Regardless of your needs and tastes, Acura has the car for you. Safety With a plethora of passive, active, and driver-assist safety features, Acura is in the upper echelon of safety in the automotive market. A comprehensive set of airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system highlight the passive and active safety specs, but the true star of the show is AcuraWatch. AcuraWatch is a driver-assist safety suite that aims to forge a zero-collision society. To attain these goals, the safety system offers features intended to mitigate collisions and raise driver awareness. This includes a collision mitigation braking system, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and more. The NSX is exempt from crash tests, but all five other models received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The MDX, RDX, and RLX also garnered a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, solidifying Acura's prominent name in automotive safety. AcuraLink AcuraLink is the virtual assistant you've always needed. As part of the Technology Package, it acts as a planner, entertainment system, and mechanic all wrapped up into one. At the touch of a button, you can make dinner reservations or navigate to a new music venue. It also allows you to monitor your car's performance, while also sending service reminders when it's time to take your car into the shop. This infotainment system doubles as a communication center, an infotainment system, and the perfect in-car jukebox to boot. Throw in the AcuraLink app which allows you to find your car or remotely lock and unlock your car, and the AcuraLink system is one that other luxury automakers envy. While Europeans often get the lion's share of attention for crafting the world's best luxury cars, don't sleep on Acura. Packed with sumptuous amenities, stunning looks, and a personality to match, Acura is perhaps the best luxury car for the money. Schedule a test drive today to see what gives Acura the upper hand in the marketplace. *Disclaimer: NHTSA overall 5-Star Ratings for all Acura models first achieved in 2009. Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program (SaferCar.gov). Luxury brand designation based on ALG's (Automotive Lease Guide) Brand Pricing Score segmentation. Image via Joe Ross | Licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0

Are you on the hunt for a fun community race to get the family involved and fuel your passion for marathon running? El Paso residents are in for a treat. The city is hosting a variety of fun-themed 5Ks sure to excite everyone in town. Here are four upcoming events to keep in mind. Color Vibe 5K Run The Color Vibe 5K Run is a race like no other. Color stations are set up with paint launchers ready to douse runners in an airy mist of colored powder from head to toe. But don't worry — the powder washes out easily and is non-toxic, so all ages are welcome to join the fun. If interested, you can pre-register to secure your spot, enjoy discounted pricing, and enter an exclusive contest to win free goodies. Race packets are standard and include freebies like T-shirts, sunglasses, race bibs, and color packs. The race starts at 8 a.m., and you can check the Color Vibe 5K Run website for date and location updates. Date: TBD Dragons Zombies Skulls Run Despite the fantasy-packed name, you won't find any dragons or zombies at this El Paso race. However, you will find a Golden Sugar Skull, which will be given to top finishers in each age division. This glitzy reward goes hand in hand with the race's Dio De Los Muertos theme. The Dragons Zombies Skulls Run will offer everything from sideline entertainment like mariachis and traditional folk dancing to an after-party filled with children's activities and authentic Mexican and Latin American cuisine. Events are expected to kick off in the evening, but a location has yet to be announced. Date: Sept. 8 Downtown Running of the Bulls 5K The Running of the Bulls 5K event is a great way to take in the exciting sights and sounds of bustling downtown El Paso. The course begins at Franklin and Oregon Streets and offers a refreshing 3.1-mile trek past the downtown area. Opening events begin at 8:15 a.m. with the 5K run scheduled to start 45 minutes later. Awards will be given out to top finishers in each age group and teams of five or more. There will also be activity stations and door prizes available. Participants can opt to purchase a post-race meal ticket for $15, a single 5K run ticket for $25, or both for $30. Date: Oct. 20 Flying Horse Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K Head north of El Paso to Anthony for this next running event. The Flying Horse Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K will take place near the Henry Miramontes Memorial Park on Richard White and Franklin Street. From here you'll embark on a double-loop course that stretches from the Texas border into New Mexico and back. Admission ranges from $25 to $45 depending on date of registration, though all military members will receive a $5 discount. Included with that price are goodies such as a special race T-shirt, an athlete bag, snacks and beverages, a finisher medal, and more. The 5K portion kicks off at 8:10 a.m. with an award ceremony following at 9:15 a.m. Date: Nov. 17 There's nothing like a 5K to get your adrenaline pumping. Mark these El Paso runs on your calendar so you don't miss out! Image via Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

August in El Paso, Texas, sets the stage for summer festivals and events. It's also the perfect time of year to keep the kids entertained before they head back to school. No matter the occasion, you'll find plenty of things to do this August in and around the El Paso area. Here are just four events we recommend adding to your summer to-do list. Plaza Classic Film Festival Classic films beckon movie aficionados everywhere and now's your chance to explore these cinematic gems up close at the annual Plaza Classic Film Festival. Hosted at the Plaza Theatre from August 2-12, you and your guests can enjoy screenings of more than 90 films. These range from childhood favorites like Aladdin and Lady and the Tramp to others such as the 1970 romantic drama Love Story starring Ali MacGraw. In fact, the Golden Globe-winning actress, activist, and author is a special guest at this year's festival and will be holding an exclusive autograph session for fans. more Third Annual Race for the Future 5K Are you interested in giving back to the community while fueling your passion for marathon running? If so, the Third Annual Race for the Future 5K is a can't-miss event for El Paso residents. Proceeds will go to local organizations such as Community Partners of El Paso, Inc., a nonprofit that works with mistreated and neglected children. The race will begin at the Up and Running sporting goods store on August 5 at 7:30 a.m. sharp. Sign up for a 1-mile walk while you're there or push your limits to a 5K (3.1 miles). Registration fees range from $25 to $30, though you'll be given a slight discount if you register as part of a team of 10 or more. For participating in this event, you'll be awarded with a special t-shirt, raffle prize opportunities, and a trophy or medal if you finish in the top three. All ages are welcome! Zootopia STEAM Summer Camp From August 6-10, bring the kiddos to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) campus for some fun summer learning. The Zootopia STEAM Summer Camp serves as the perfect way to engage children in math and science exploration before the start of the upcoming school term. For a $100 fee, your kids will get to participate in engaging lessons and activities throughout the week. These include solving math problems, exploring plant and animal ecosystems, and building a scale model replica of popular attractions at the El Paso Zoo. Sounds like an exciting and stimulating way to keep your kids' brains active this summer! Victorian Sci-Fi Book and Tea Club Don your best steampunk attire and stop by the Magoffin Home State Historic Site on Aug. 18 for a Victorian Sci-Fi Book and Tea Club gathering. Here you can enjoy tasty pastries and tea while exploring the 1886 novel A Study in Scarlet by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. You can find a copy of the book online for free at Project Gutenberg. All ages are welcome to attend, and admission is only $5 per person. Whether you're a classic film buff or a fan of literature, these four events in El Paso deserve a spot on your August itinerary. Photo by Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0