El Paso's Winterfest has outshone competition across the nation to be crowned as the Best Christmas Market in 2026 by Newsweek. The celebration, a staple of the holiday season in the city's downtown area, has been praised for its blend of Mexican and American holiday traditions, offering attendees a unique experience with crafts, entertainment, and an array of flavors from around the world. According to Newsweek's coverage, the market's distinct desert setting does little to diminish the festive spirit, as families skate, shop, and take in the lights under the desert stars.
As reported by the El Paso Times, the selection process involved a panel of Newsweek experts and contributors, as well as reader votes; a call-to-action for the latter was shared on Winterfest's social media channels. The lively event surpasses its counterparts, including markets in Austin, Washington, D.C., and New York, locations steeped in their own histories and holiday practices.
The honor has been met with a sense of community pride and recognition of collective effort. "Being named America’s best Christmas market is a meaningful recognition for our community,” Ben Fyffe, City of El Paso Quality of Life Managing Director, expressed in a statement obtained by KVIA. He emphasizes the importance of this accolade as a reflection of the exhaustive contributions from city departments, partners, and local creatives who infuse Winterfest with its characteristic enchantment.
While this recognition from Newsweek is certainly noteworthy, the Market at Winterfest has the potential to stack another accolade onto its 2026 holiday mantle; it's in contention for a spot in USA Today's Top 10 Holiday Markets. Winterfest supporters and El Paso residents are encouraged to cast their votes, per details shared by KFOX-TV. This additional acknowledgment would further cement the market's place as an integral part of the wider national festive framework. Voting closes Nov. 30, allowing fans of the market to help secure another win for their cherished local event.
