Neon Desert
Head to El Paso in your RV for the annual Neon Desert Festival. It is a multi-genre music event featuring the best local and international artists.
Event information
Neon Desert Music Festival is a multi-genre music event that takes place every year in the heart of downtown El Paso, Texas. Since its inception it has grown to become one of the most successful and popular music festivals in the U.S. Festival attendees can enjoy world-class music from different genres like hip-hop, Latin, electronic dance, and rock.
Multiple stages are set up on the festival grounds where mainstream American artists at the top of their game perform. Some of the most acclaimed international and Latin artists bring the venue alive. The festival also aims to showcase local talent with a dedicated stage set up for artists from the area.
Over 200,000 people have cumulatively attended Neon Desert since it first began. Artists who have performed at the festival in the past include Martin Garrix, Dillon Francis, Cardi B, Third Eye Blind, Wiz Khalifa, Café Tacvba, Bomba Estéreo, Lil Wayne, and Foster the People.
Neon Desert is a multicultural music event that transforms Downtown El Paso for two days. The festival usually takes place over the Memorial Day weekend. In addition to the great music, guests can also enjoy some fun activities like pro wrestling shows, a skate ramp, and several impressive art installations.
Tickets
There are general admission, VIP, and Platinum VIP tickets on offer. You can also choose from single-day or two-day tickets. Prices range from around $60 for the one-day general admission tickets to $500 for Platinum VIP passes.
VIP and Platinum VIP tickets will give you access to a dedicated VIP entry lane, an outdoor VIP lounge, complimentary phone charging stations, and many other perks.
Various payment plans are available for those who'd like to pay for their tickets in installments. Tickets can be purchased online on the festival website, or you can buy them at one of the event's many partner outlets.
Explore Neon Desert RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Neon Desert is held in downtown El Paso. The streets of downtown can be challenging to navigate, especially for first-time visitors. Street names in this area often display N. or S. so be sure to look for the correct version on your route. It's a good idea to use a navigation app if possible to check the flow of traffic when possible.
Parking areas
There are a couple of affordable parking lots and garages where you can park your vehicle for the day. Several are situated a short walk away from the venue, so you can park and get there on foot. These tend to fill up fast on the days of the festival, so make sure you book your spot in advance if the lot allows. Remember to check that the lot you choose accepts RVs if you will need to park your rig for the day while at Neon Desert.
Public Transportation
The festival organizers encourage attendees to reduce their carbon footprint by riding public transport or carpooling to the event. If you take a bus, check the Oregon/Missouri stop on the red line which should be the closest point to the entrance. You could also ride the streetcar and get off at Franklin/Mesa.
Where to stay
Onsite
Camping on the festival grounds is not offered at Neon Desert. A traveler's best bet is to choose an RV resort or park that's close to the venue.
Nearby
Several of the campgrounds in El Paso are situated at the foothills of the mountains, so you'll be able to enjoy some incredible views. They are also close to other El Paso attractions like the National Border Patrol Museum and the El Paso Zoo. These come with facilities like extra large pull-through sites, full hook-ups, and free wireless internet.
Getting around
Bicycles, skateboards, scooters, skates, or other personal motorized vehicles will not be allowed in the venue. The entire site is ADA accessible, and there will be a special viewing area for patrons with mobility limitations. Wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and three or four-wheeled medical-oriented scooters are allowed.
What to pack
Clothing
Beat the heat in shorts, tank tops, light layers, and hats. Most people choose to wear flowy, comfortable clothing. A few costumes and flower crowns may make an appearance. You'll also see festival-goers in concert tees and other festival merchandise. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a pair of sunglasses.
Gear
Small bags, purses, and backpacks will be allowed inside Neon Desert only if they meet the size requirements. Make sure to carry sunscreen, an empty water bottle, a portable phone charger, and cash. Guests will not be allowed to take in professional cameras or any audio or video recording equipment, so stick to taking photos and videos with your phone or approved camera.
Health & Safety
It's likely to be very hot during the day so proper hydration is essential. There will be a central water station providing free, filtered drinking water. Carrying a few single-serve electrolyte packets can also help you stay quenched. Make sure you slather on plenty of sunscreen, and wear a hat and light, breathable clothing.
Where to eat
Cooking
Most RV parks and campgrounds allow cooking on the stove or cooktop that's associated with your RV. Open fires, large portable stoves, and some grills may not be permitted, and check if your campsite will have fuel regulations for external cooking equipment. Cooking on the festival grounds or bringing in outside food or beverages is not allowed on site.
Restaurants
Whether you're in the mood for authentic southern food, a great steak or a fast food snack, you'll find it in El Paso. You'll also come across some inventive new restaurants and plenty of delicious Tex Mex fare. The area even some authentic Greek, Spanish, Moroccan, and Mediterranean cuisine on offer.
Vendors
There will be a number of food trucks parked near the street intersections. As expected, various types of delicious tacos will be ready for you to try. You can also indulge in other delicious Mexican fare and festival staples like pizza and burgers. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be on sale as well.
Safety
Security
Every effort will be made to provide a secure, safe, and positive environment for attendees. The festival's safety management team will work closely with local and regional law enforcement to ensure public safety. All bags will be searched before entry, and guests will be subjected to a pat-down. Any prohibited item will need to be surrendered to security and will not be returned.
Weather
In May the weather in El Paso is typically hot and sunny. By this time of year, temperatures might be nearing three digits with only a light breeze providing some relief from the heat. Wear clothing that helps you stay cool, while at the same time offering some protection against the harsh desert sun.
Medical
Medical tents will be set up and staffed with trained EMTs. Patrons who need medical assistance are encouraged to head to one of the tents or contact the nearest staff member, security official, or medical staff. Anyone who needs to carry in food or medications due to dietary restrictions or medical conditions can do so by providing a doctor's note upon check-in.
