The Southern Border Experience refers to several immersive, educational programs in the El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, border region designed to provide firsthand insight into migration, policy, and border life. These events are typically organized by non-profits and faith-based groups rather than being a single commercial festival.
If you are looking for other events specifically related to the border or regional culture during this time:
For events involving travel into Ciudad Juárez, you will need a valid U.S. passport or equivalent travel document to re-enter the United States through one of the ports of entry, such as the Paso del Norte Port of Entry.
Would you like more information on registration deadlines for the April immersion programs or details on hotel options near the border?
Primary Southern Border Experience Programs
Related Border Events in El Paso (Spring 2026)
Practical Travel Information
•Abara Border Encounters: These are 3-day, 4-night immersive experiences.
•Focus: Re-humanizing migration through storytelling, visits to migrant shelters on both sides of the border, and dialogue with local experts.
•Location: El Paso, TX and Ciudad Juárez, MX.
•Upcoming Dates: Multiple dates throughout 2026, including a specific session starting April 21, 2026.
•Cost: Approximately $600–$845 per person, depending on group size and registration.
•Annunciation House - Border Awareness Experience (BAE): A long-standing program focused on social justice and human rights.
•Focus: Immersing participants in border culture by having them stay in houses of hospitality and meet with people directly affected by border policies.
•H4H El Paso Border Pilgrimage: An experiential learning pilgrimage focused on the economics and theology of migration.
•Dates: April 28–30, 2026 (Partnering with Abara).
•Cost: $1,200–$1,500 (includes programming and lodging).
•2026 Global Border Summit: A professional conference discussing international border issues.
•Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026.
•Location: Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park, El Paso.
•El Paso & Juárez Downtown Historic Walking Tour: A guided tour exploring iconic landmarks like the Mission of Guadalupe and the Museum of Revolution.
•Provider: GetYourGuide
•Cost: Starts around $240 USD.
•National Border Patrol Museum: A free-to-enter museum showcasing the history of the U.S. Border Patrol.
•National Border Patrol Museum
•Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 9:00 AM – 4:45 PM.
•Paso del Norte Port of Entry
Updated at 24 Mar 2026