Since the first Sun Bowl played on January 1, 1935, as a fundraising event for a local service club, the game has grown to be one of El Paso’s top national attractions. With its picturesque stadium nestled between two mountains, it has become a piece of the Southwest and a lesson in history. Held a day prior to the game, the Fan Fiesta is a free, family-friendly event that features a fireworks display, musical performances by local bands, university pep rallies, and a battle of the bands.