Good morning, El Paso.

Wet 'N' Wild Water World hosted the 17th Annual World's Largest Swimming Lesson yesterday to teach basic water safety to families, as the El Paso Parks and Recreation Department partnered with the Drowning Prevention Coalition to equip kids with essential skills such as floating, kicking + opening their eyes underwater.

The Rescue Mission recovery program helped Fred Johnson rebuild his life after years of addiction, and today he manages Hallelujah!

BBQ — a social enterprise that offers job training and employment for others starting over.

El Paso will begin eight days of America 250 and Fourth of July celebrations tomorrow — featuring fireworks, parades, concerts and family activities at venues from Fort Bliss to downtown parks — as community members prepare for festive local culture.

El Paso artist Blast explained how his graffiti background inspired his solo exhibition 'Trancazos de la Vida Real' at EPMA – a display that links local culture with personal experience.

Legendary actress Ann-Margret will speak as she receives the (Plaza Classic Award) for Lifetime Achievement at the 2026 Plaza Classic Film Festival.

Her appearances for 'Bye Bye Birdie' and 'Tommy' are scheduled Friday, July 17 and Saturday, July 18 at the Plaza Theatre.

New Census Bureau estimates show that El Paso County lost nearly 12,000 school-age children between 2020 and 2025, driven by declining births and families leaving.

The decline is linked to lower school enrollment and a growing older population.

El Paso Water transferred 1,054 acres to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department on May 14, expanding the eastern boundary of Franklin Mountains State Park and boosting public access.

The move protects the desert ecosystem and supports long-term conservation for future generations.

Three local nonprofits received grants from Blue Cross and Blue Shield to boost healthcare and food access.

El Paso Children's Hospital Foundation will enhance pediatric diabetes programs and healthy cooking, El Pasoans Fighting Hunger expanded food distribution to serve 1,500 people daily, and ProAction plans to provide 40,000 vaccines soon.

Toby, a 6-year-old pug rescued from a Fabens home, is back in intensive care after a medical setback and is receiving ongoing treatment from PAWsitive Rescuers (he is not ready for adoption yet).

El Paso orthopedic surgeon Dr. Shark from Texas Tech Physicians advises residents to warm up slowly during exercise and seek early treatment if joint pain persists + timely consultation can help prevent injuries and reduce osteoarthritis risk.

He stresses proper training to support overall joint health.

El Paso Biergarten offers a European style pub vibe for World Cup watch parties with $1 wings and a 20-ounce beer cup refill deal to enjoy games in a lively setting.

The USA vs. Turkey match (8 p.m. MT on Thursday) will draw a crowd at the venue.

The Sleeping Beauty

7-9 p.m. — Magoffin Auditorium — $25 general admission, $45 front row — Witness the enchanting tale of Princess Aurora brought to life by the Nylia Ballet Company.

School Of Rock - The Musical

7:30-10:30 p.m. — UTEP Dinner Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a lively musical adaptation of the iconic film with a talented cast.

Los Estramboticos Concert

7-11 p.m. — Lowbrow Palace — Tickets available — Enjoy a vibrant concert by Los Estramboticos with official merchandise.

Tom & Collins Live Performance

9:00 p.m. — Lost & Found — Ticketed event — Experience an electrifying night with the beats of Tom & Collins.

4th of July Festival and Firework Show

5-9 p.m. — Rio Grande Valley Ranch RV Resort — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with food, games, and a spectacular firework display.

School Of Rock - The Musical

2-5 p.m. — University of Texas at El Paso — Cost info not provided — Experience the lively energy of rock music and talented youth performers in this exciting musical.

El Paso Junior Golf Tournament

All day — El Paso Country Club — Entry fees vary — Watch young golfers showcase their talent in a competitive junior tournament.

Jimmy McMurrin Stand-Up Comedy Show

8-11 p.m. — El Paso Comic Strip — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy a night of laughter with rising star Jimmy McMurrin and special guests.

El Paso Swim & Cruise Fashion Show

7-10 p.m. — The Fountains at Farah — Check online for ticket info — Dive into summer style with a vibrant fashion show featuring local and global designers.

EL PASO w/ HAUNT ME

7-11 p.m. — Lowbrow Palace — Tickets available — Experience the ethereal sounds of the indie/dreampop band Cathedral Bells live.