September 26, 2026 – 10:30am to 3pm. Stay connected to all of the world in your big backyard here in the Chihuahuan Desert. Subscribe to this blog for free. Above – Zoo Education Specialist Heather Rivera with rescued Swainson’s Hawk.
September 26, 2026 10:30am to 3pm at the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta began in 2005, just one year after the Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition (CDEC) was founded at the El Paso Zoo. Since its inception, the annual event has grown steadily in popularity, bringing together families, educators, conservation organizations, and nature enthusiasts to celebrate the unique wildlife, cultures, and landscapes of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Shortly after launching the Fiesta, CDEC also helped organize and sponsor the first Poppies Fest, playing a major role in building public support for what would eventually become Castner Range National Monument.
From 2005 through 2019, the Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta was hosted by Franklin Mountains State Park. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Fiesta was held entirely as a virtual event. Following the opening of the El Paso Zoo’s Chihuahuan Desert Exhibit in 2019, the Zoo became the event’s host beginning with the 2021 Fiesta.
As CDEC enters an exciting new chapter under the leadership of Chair Kristina “Kristy” Flores and Vice Chair Victoria Claudia Cervantes Montes, the organization is expanding its commitment to education, collaboration, and conservation throughout the region.
“The Chihuahuan Desert belongs to all of us. By bringing people together through education and shared experiences, we can build stronger communities and inspire collective action to protect this extraordinary place we call home.”
— Kristina “Kristy” Flores, Chair, Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition
“The Chihuahuan Desert is one of the world’s most remarkable ecosystems. My hope is that every visitor leaves the Fiesta with a deeper appreciation for its wildlife and a desire to help protect it for future generations.”
— Victoria Claudia Cervantes Montes, Vice Chair, Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition
At the event visitors can enjoy animal encounter presentations, educational exhibits, interactive booths hosted by conservation organizations, children’s activities, and live entertainment in the Chihuahuan Desert Exhibit and the Wildlife Amphitheater at the El Paso Zoo. The Fiesta provides a unique opportunity for families to discover the incredible diversity of life found in the Chihuahuan Desert while learning simple ways they can help conserve this internationally significant ecosystem.
Admission to the Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta is included with regular Zoo admission. Current admission prices and visitor information are available at www.elpasozoo.org.
The Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition invites everyone to join us in celebrating one of North America’s most spectacular deserts—and to become part of the growing community working together to protect its future.
Our Vision – We will create a future where all people understand, value, and protect the Chihuahuan Desert.
