Downtown El Paso is getting the full country treatment in 2026, with Cole Swindell locked in to headline the 10th annual Way Out West Country Music Festival on Saturday, Sept. 26. The multi-platinum singer-songwriter will top a full day of country acts on two stages, as the Borderland festival celebrates a decade of live music, local flavor, two-stepping, and family-friendly fun.
Tickets and on-sale details
Organizers say pre-sale tickets for festival subscribers go live at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 5, with the general public on-sale following at 10 a.m. Friday, May 8. Military discounts will be offered through GovX. According to KFOX, tickets will be available through the festival website, Ticketmaster, and the Plaza Theatre box office.
The festival is also collecting sign-ups for news and early updates on additional performers, and will post new lineup announcements as they are confirmed. For details on tickets and artist additions, see the Way Out West festival site.
About Cole Swindell
Over the past 12 years, Cole Swindell has carved out a steady run as both a songwriter and recording artist, stacking up 13 No. 1 singles as a performer along the way. His official bio notes that 12 of those chart-toppers have earned RIAA Platinum certification, including three tracks that have reached 3x Platinum status, a track record that helps explain why he is headlining the anniversary year. For more on his catalog and recent releases, see Cole Swindell.
What to expect at the fest
The 2026 edition is slated to run across two stages, the Bud Light Main Stage and the Lucchese Rising Star Stage, with a mix of national acts and up-and-comers. Beyond the music, organizers are planning vendor rows, a margarita contest, a chili challenge, and a cornhole tournament to keep things lively between sets.
"This 10-year milestone is incredibly meaningful for all of us," Festival Producer Gina Roe-Davis said in the announcement. The stage lineup details and producer comments were reported by KFOX.
Local logistics
Because Way Out West unfolds in the heart of downtown El Paso, nearby businesses and city officials typically brace for heavier foot traffic, street closures, and changes to event-day parking. Visit El Paso lists Way Out West among the city’s signature annual events and urges attendees to watch for updates on maps, parking options, and accessibility information.
Festivalgoers who prefer to buy tickets in person can head to the Plaza Theatre box office at 125 Pioneer Plaza. Box office hours, policies, and will-call details are available via the Plaza Theatre box office.
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