Need plan this week? 5 things to do in El Paso include Bug Fest, Michael Jackson tribute
El Pasoans have a variety of options for entertainment this week, from free community events to concerts and a Broadway musical.
Those looking for a date night should wear some dancing shoes and head to the Cumbia Forever Event.
With the late Prince's birthday coming up on June 7, fans can start celebrating early with a special tribute concert Friday with a popular impersonator who regularly performs in Las Vegas.
If you're looking for something for the whole family and don't mind getting close to insects, there's a fun event planned at the El Paso Zoo. Here's a closer look at some fun things to do this week in El Paso County.
Tribute to Michael Jackson and Prince
Enjoy listening to the hits of the late great artists Michael Jackson and Prince in this tribute concert at 8 p.m. Friday at the El Paso County Coliseum. Doors will open at 6 p.m.
The event is being put on by Operation Hope, an El Paso charitable organization, and will benefit the organization and Ukraine relief.
Impersonators will be Darren Wilson, who portrays Michael Jackson, and Donelvan Thigpen, who has shows in Las Vegas, performs as Prince.
The El Paso funk band 911-N-Effect also will perform.
Tickets are $20 to $35, plus fees, available at Ticketmaster.com
Bug Fest
The El Paso Zoo is excited to bring back Bug Fest this weekend, sponsored by Truly Nolen Pest & Termite Control.
Bug Fest will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sundayat the zoo, 4001 E. Paisano Drive.
The event features live bugs from North and South America, Africa, and Asia.
In addition, there will be a Great Bug Cook-Off: Battle of the Bugs! Truly Nolen representatives will have an exciting cook-off in the Wildlife Amphitheater at 1:30 p.m. on both days.
Bug Fest celebrates all insects that are creepy, crawly, and crunchy. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with different bugs from all over the world and try some bug delicacies prepared by the Zoo's executive chef.
Guests can enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, games, inflatables, and educational lectures from El Paso community partners.
Zoo regular admission: $12, discounts for seniors, military and kids.
Downtown Fiesta de las Luces
The fun fiesta returns this Saturday with a variety of vendors, food trucks, and some exciting lucha libre, as well as live entertainment.
The event is from 3 to 11 p.m. on South El Paso St., between Paisano drive and Fourth Avenue. Other upcoming events will be Sept. 17 and Nov. 19. Free admission.
The event will feature Lucha Frontera and feature eight battles throughout the evening.
The B-17 Bomber Adult Beverage Booth will provide adult refreshments.
Cumbia Forever
If you feel like dancing some fun cumbia, get your dancing shoes for Cumbia Forever Saturday at 501 Texas Ave. Doors open at 8 p.m.
The event will feature several local and regional cumbia acts and DJs as well as booths from local organizations, tequila and mezcal tasting, and a dance competition.
Musical acts will be up-and-coming acts like Wamaygallo (El Paso) and vinyl DJ vibes from Rodriga Rockmore (El Paso/Juárez). Also featured are the chicha stylings of Ritmo Cascabel (Denver) and a closing set from Frontera Bugalu (El Paso).
Tickets, $14 in advance, are on sale online at Hold My Ticket. Tickets will be $20 at the door.
Waitress
After some rescheduling, fans of musicals will be able to enjoy this Broadway musical, at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesdayat the Plaza Theatre, 125 W. Mills Ave.
The musical features Jenna, a waitress and expert pie-maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and rocky marriage. Pouring her heart into her pies, she crafts desserts that mirror her topsy-turvy life such as “The Key (Lime) to Happiness Pie” and “Betrayed By My Eggs Pie.” A nearby baking contest will give her the chance for a fresh starts.
The hit Broadway musical features original music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner Sara Bareilles, author" of "Love S" ng."
Tickets, ranging from $32 to $72, plus fees, are available at https://www.ticketmaster.com/
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María Cortés González may be reached at 915-546-6150; mcortes@elpasotimes.com; @EPTMaria on Twitter.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: 5 things to do in El Paso include Bug Fest, Michael Jackson tribute
