Neon Desert returns amid storms of controversy

Angelica Ledesma, Reporter
April 22, 2019

Part of a music festival is the beloved tradition that can turn strangers into friends. Usually, people are excited to find out who will be performing but the lineup is causing a controversy due to a lack of choices in artists.

Many expected to see “superior” artists in the lineup rather than artists who have already performed in El Paso. But sometimes people forget that organizers for NDMF try to make the two-day festival unforgettable. The festival includes 40 music performers from El Paso and across the world. Headliners such as Wiz Khalifa, REZZ, Miguel, Young Thug, Gunna, Don Omar (Kings of Kings of Reggaeton music) and others will perform.

Taking place in the heart of downtown El Paso, Neon Desert Music Festival (NDMF) is fast approaching. The two day festival is primarily sponsored by Southwest University.

The festival takes place Memorial weekend, May 25 – 26. It is the ninth annual multi-genre event. Every year, NDMF is announced on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Some start to plan and purchase tickets early. Others wait for the lineup to be released before they make the decision to attend.

Last year the festival took place near San Jacinto Plaza, but was moved to 300 N. Kansas St.  KVIA news reported that the organizers said the new location will provide more viewing space for fans to have a better experience. NDMF fans disagree with the location change. KFOX14 reported that the original location gave fans a change to relax and enjoy the park. The park offers fans a chance to capture photo moments and enjoy the outdoors. Organizers wanted to make sure the event grows and remains healthy for years to come.

NDMF has hosted over 200,000 attendees. Last year, the two-day festival drew over 30,000 music fans. Although many believe that El Paso does not have the best entertainment, NDMF is the most successful multicultural music festival.