Luisa Rosas-Hernández

Luisa Rosas-Hernández

Luisa Rosas-Hernández is a writer for the Gringo Gazette North, where she covers Baja’s wine scene, good eats, and public safety—with a healthy dose of wit and no bad news allowed. By day, she’s a health researcher recognized by Mexico’s National System of Researchers (SNI), and by night, she handles the Gazette’s finances and dabbles in social media—making sure the numbers add up and the posts pop. When she’s not chasing stories or crunching data, you’ll likely find her in the Valle enjoying a glass of red (or a crisp white with oysters)… for research purposes, of course.
Breaking News

Elon Musk Might Be Out of Trump’s Inner Circle

But Not Out of the Picture

Elon Musk may soon step down from his official role as an advisor to President Donald Trump—but that doesn’t mean he’s off the radar. According to Trump himself, Musk is expected to leave his post as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—yes, that’s the actual name, no meme left behind.

Created to “streamline” the federal government, DOGE under Musk became the ultimate budget-cutting machine. We’re talking agency shutdowns, staff layoffs, and enough red tape slashing to make a confetti cannon. While some praised the reforms as bold, others are calling them reckless. The response? Coast-to-coast protests with the rallying cry “Hands Off!”

Despite the noise, Trump remains publicly supportive. “He’s got a lot of companies to run,” Trump told reporters, suggesting the world’s busiest billionaire may be heading back to the world of electric cars, rockets, satellites, brain chips, and tweets that move markets.

Vice President JD Vance added fuel to the speculation, confirming that even if Musk leaves his government title behind, he’ll remain “a friend and advisor” to both him and the president. Translation: Elon’s still got Trump’s ear—just without the official nameplate.

Meanwhile, Tesla’s having a bit of a bumpy ride. Sales are down, the stock’s sliding, and investors are wondering whether politics and profit can really mix. Some say Musk’s high-profile presence in D.C. has made his brand less appealing in an already divided market.

The bigger question? What does Musk’s departure mean for Trump’s second-term plans? Some insiders believe the White House wanted Musk out of the spotlight to calm the waters. Others say he’s simply had enough of D.C. drama.

Whatever the case, don’t expect him to sit still. Whether he’s launching satellites or lunching with senators, Musk isn’t going anywhere. He may no longer be the official Mr. Fix-It for the federal government, but you can bet his influence is still circling the launch pad.

At the Gringo Gazette North, we say skip the press releases—watch the body language. And if Elon Musk is stepping down, he’s probably stepping sideways… into something just as chaotic.

At the Gringo Gazette, we like our news like we like our tacos—straightforward, a little spicy, and served without the extra fluff.

1 387
Tijuana Talent at Harvard
 Articles, Arts & Literature, Border, Tijuana

Benito Del Águila Takes Border Culture to Harvard

—No Wall Can Hold Back Art

Harvard might be thousands of miles from the border, but last week it got a strong taste of Baja’s cultural flavor thanks to artist and cultural promoter Benito Del Águila. He brought the borderlands to the Ivy League during the symposium “Distant Neighbors or Regional Partners?”—a heavyweight gathering at Harvard University reflecting on U.S.–Mexico relations under two new administrations.

While academics, investigative journalists, Indigenous community leaders, and even a coalition of borderland mayors tackled migration and trade, Benito came with brushes, vision, and something Harvard hadn’t seen much of lately: borderland soul.

His talk focused on the power of art as a form of cultural diplomacy. According to Benito, it’s not about red tape or policy—art gets things done the old-fashioned way: by bringing people together. He shined a spotlight on the Tijuana–San Diego art community and how it’s been building bridges way before the diplomats got around to it.

Del Águila didn’t just theorize—he showed real-life examples of how the arts are opening dialogue and encouraging mutual respect between Mexico and the U.S. He also promoted “La Línea que Une – Conexiones Transfronterizas”, an exhibit featuring over 50 artists from both sides of the border who reflect on life in a binational community.

That show is part of Artwalk Rosarito 2025, which, if you haven’t been, is not just a walk—it’s a cultural sprint across gallery spaces that’s fast becoming the go-to art event of the region.

Benito’s participation at Harvard didn’t go unnoticed. Outlets like Flash Cultural Tijuana echoed the event, highlighting his role in pushing for deeper cross-border understanding through creativity and cultural connection.

It wasn’t just about showing off pretty pictures. It was a reminder that culture—unlike certain policies—actually crosses borders. Through art, music, and shared stories, Benito made it clear: when creativity leads the way, people follow.

And while Washington figures out which neighbor gets what, artists like Del Águila are already living in the future—one where Mexico and the U.S. aren’t distant at all.

At the Gringo Gazette North, we say skip the red tape—pass the paintbrush. Benito’s brushstrokes just hit Harvard, and Baja’s voice is louder than ever.

#Harvard

0 377
Suspect Caught in Killing of Gail Castro
 Breaking News, Tijuana

Suspect Caught in Killing of Gail Castro

Justice Closing In

Baja California authorities aren’t messing around. This week, the State Attorney General’s Office (FGE) confirmed the arrest of a man involved in the murder of Gail Castro—brother of popular influencer Markitos Toys.

The suspect had been under investigation for months. Eventually, authorities tracked him down and made the arrest, showing that in Baja, no one gets a free pass when it comes to serious crimes.

The murder of Gail Castro shocked fans across the country and hit social media hard. While details of the case remain under wraps, the FGE says this is just one of several actions they’re taking to bring justice to the Castro family.

More arrests could be on the way. In the meantime, this capture sends a loud message: run all you want, but sooner or later, Baja catches up.

Here at the Gringo Gazette North, we don’t chase headlines—we chase the silver linings. And today, it’s that Baja California’s getting tougher on crime, and impunity is no longer on the menu.

0 2793
 Articles

Mario Bros Busted in Tijuana

And No, Not the Nintendo Kind

Tijuana authorities finally caught a crime boss known as “Mario Bros”. He’s a suspected leader in the Los Mayos cartel. This time, he tried to escape during a raid in the Natura neighborhood. However, there were no power-ups to save him.

The Mexican Army led the operation. In addition, the Navy, local and state police, federal agents, and prosecutors all joined in. Basically, every badge in Baja showed up.

As a result, officers seized weapons and other shady items. According to investigators, Mario is linked to multiple homicides and cartel activity across the region.

At the moment, he’s behind bars. Authorities are still deciding whether to keep him in Tijuana or move him to another prison. Either way, the bust shows how serious these agencies are about working together.

More importantly, this is another win in the ongoing effort to make Tijuana safer. While crime headlines are rarely good news, this one might just be the exception.

At the Gringo Gazette North, we keep it real—with a wink. And in this case? Let’s just say, game over, Mario.

2 555
 Articles, Music, National

No Entry for Narco Cheerleaders

U.S. and Mexico Pull the Plug on Banda That Praised “El Mencho

Looks like the U.S. and Mexico are finally singing the same tune—and it’s not a narcocorrido.

Former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Christopher Landau, who also served as Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, confirmed on April 1 that the U.S. has revoked both work and tourist visas for all members of the Mexican band Los Alegres del Barranco. Why? Because they thought it was a good idea to glorify El Mencho—one of Mexico’s most wanted drug lords—during two concerts in Jalisco and Michoacán.

The shows featured songs and video tributes to Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” leader of the CJNG cartel—one of the most violent criminal organizations in the region.


Screenshot taken during the concert video

Landau made it crystal clear in his post on X: “Freedom of speech doesn’t mean freedom from consequences. We’re not rolling out the welcome mat for anyone glorifying criminals and terrorists.”

And Mexico isn’t sitting this one out either. President Claudia Sheinbaum called for an investigation, saying, “That shouldn’t happen. It’s not right.” But it didn’t stop there.

The mayor of Zapopan confirmed that a formal complaint was filed with the Jalisco State Attorney’s Office—against both the venue (the University of Guadalajara Auditorium) and the band itself. On top of that, the City of Zapopan announced a fine of 300 Unidades de Medida y Actualización (UMA), which comes out to 33,942 pesos. So yes, real consequences are happening on both sides of the border.

Whether you’re in a cowboy hat or a business suit, praising a cartel boss just got a whole lot more expensive—and a whole lot less welcome.

Zero tolerance is the name of the game now. U.S. or Mexico—narco worship is out of tune

2 514
 Ensenada, Food, Wine

A Shell of a Good Time: The Conchas & Wine Festival Turns 25!

If you ever needed an excuse to sip world-class wine while slurping fresh oysters by the sea, here it is: The XXV Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo is back from April 10–13 in Ensenada, and this year, it’s bigger, bolder, and brinier than ever. 

For 25 years, this festival has been the place where Baja California’s wine, seafood, and culinary magic come together in one glorious weekend of indulgence. Hosted by Provino Baja California, it brings together top-tier winemakers, chefs, and seafood producers, showcasing the best local shellfish and the freshest new wines from the region. This is not your average “grab a glass and a snack” kind of affair—this is four days of seafood feasting and wine swirling at its finest. 

The festival opens with the XVI Taller de Conchas (April 10-11), a deep dive into all things seafood. If you’ve ever wanted to hear marine biologists, aquaculture pros, and chefs discuss oyster farming, mollusk sustainability, and the future of Baja’s seafood industry—this is your jam. Even if you don’t understand half of what’s being said, it’s still a great way to appreciate where your fancy seafood dinner comes from. 

Next up is the IX Salón del Vino (April 11), where 70 wineries will be showing off their latest and greatest. This exclusive business-to-business event is where winemakers and distributors strike deals and introduce their newest creations to the world. It’s like speed dating, but for wine. 

Then, things get serious on April 12 with Mesas Marinas, an ultra-exclusive seafood and wine experience. Picture this: 15 oceanfront tables, each seating 20 guests, with a personal chef, winemaker, and shellfish producer catering to your every need. You’ll get a four-course meal featuring Baja’s finest oysters, clams, mussels, and abalone, paired with the best white and sparkling wines in the region. Chefs from as far as Peru, the U.S., Mexico City, and beyond will be on hand to create unforgettable seafood dishes—and trust us, this is the kind of meal you’ll be talking about for years. 

And then, the main event: The XXV Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo on April 13 at the Hotel Coral & Marina. This grand celebration brings together 80 wineries, over 50 restaurants, and thousands of seafood lovers for a day of pure indulgence. Expect an all-you-can-taste experience featuring fresh oysters, mussels, clams, and more, alongside over 160 labels of wine, most of them crisp whites, delicate rosés, and elegant sparkling wines. 

Oh, and let’s not forget the oyster-shucking contest, the chef-led “marina island” where you’ll get to taste seafood rice and pasta dishes, and a cooking demonstration zone for those who like their food with a side of education. 

Don’t Miss It! The Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo isn’t just a food and wine festival—it’s a celebration of Baja’s rich culinary culture, a place where the region’s best flavors, traditions, and talent shine. And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth the ticket price, just remember: 3.5 tons of shellfish, 4,182 bottles of wine, and 25,000 gourmet tastings don’t lie. 

Get your tickets before they’re gone: tienda.clubprovino.mx

0 555
 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Weather

Baja California Faces the Big Chill: How Cold is Too Cold?

Baja California, where margaritas flow as freely as the sunshine, is now bracing for a rare visitor: a cold front. Yes, folks, it’s time to put away your flip-flops and dig out that jacket you swore you’d never need. With not one but two cold fronts—numbers 9 and 10—set to crash the party, Baja residents are preparing for a taste of what the rest of Mexico calls “autumn.”

Blame It on the Polar Air

The good news? You’re not imagining things. The bad news? The temperature drop is as real as a frozen margarita in July. The cold front isn’t just a breeze; it’s a full-on polar air invasion. Temperatures are predicted to nosedive, especially in the early mornings when Baja’s usual sunny optimism might feel more like a frosty slap in the face.

Rain? Check. Wind? Double-check. And let’s not forget the chill-factor mornings that will have locals considering—gasp!—buying socks. It’s all courtesy of this polar express, sweeping through Mexico and reminding everyone that, yes, weather does occasionally change.

What to Expect in Baja

While the mainland is dealing with frost and even whispers of snow (seriously, Mexico?), Baja’s unique geography spares us from the worst of it. But don’t get too cozy. Winds will kick up, especially in coastal areas, and morning temperatures are expected to dip below the comfort zone for your average Baja native. You know, the kind who thinks anything below 20°C (68°F) is apocalyptic.

For those in northern Baja, temperatures could hit a teeth-chattering low, especially in Tijuana and Mexicali, where residents might even spot a bit of frost. Meanwhile, in southern Baja, Cabo San Lucas is likely to experience cooler evenings that might finally justify all those outdoor fire pits nobody ever uses.

Will It Snow? Don’t Hold Your Breath

Some parts of Mexico are expected to see snow (hi, Chihuahua and Durango), but Baja is, thankfully, not on that list. Our desert landscape might get a little damp and chilly, but the white stuff isn’t in the forecast. You can safely leave your snow shovel dreams for another day—or decade.

What Should You Do?

First, breathe. This isn’t the Ice Age. Second, enjoy the cooler weather—it’s practically a vacation from Baja’s relentless sunshine. Need tips? Here are a few:

                  •               Dust off that sweater you’ve been hiding in the back of your closet.

                  •               Stock up on hot chocolate—yes, you can still spike it with tequila.

                  •               Take a moment to enjoy how much better your coffee tastes when you can see your breath in the air.

For those running on solar-powered lifestyles, keep an eye on your panels. Overcast skies might affect your energy supply, so don’t be shocked if your favorite device takes a little longer to charge.

Sure, a cold front in Baja might feel like Mother Nature lost a bet, but it’s not all bad. The drop in temperatures means fewer mosquitoes (finally!), and you might even get to light that fancy candle that smells like pine trees for “seasonal vibes.” Plus, let’s face it, the chance to complain about the cold is a refreshing change from griping about the heat.

So, bundle up, Baja! This chill is temporary, and soon enough, we’ll all be back to sweating over our cervezas. Until then, enjoy the novelty of waking up and not immediately regretting life. Just remember: winter is coming—Baja style.

0 238
 Articles

Earthquakes Are Shaking It Up: But Hey, We’re Still Here!

If you’ve felt a little extra rumble under your flip-flops lately, it’s not just your margaritas going straight to your head. Ensenada’s been getting a bit of a shake-up this past week, with a series of minor earthquakes that have been giving us all a gentle reminder of just how lively Mother Nature can be. No need to panic, though—these aren’t the kind of quakes that make you run for the nearest doorway. More like a polite nudge than a hard shove. Let’s take a look at what’s been going on and why we should be… not too worried, but definitely aware. 

In the last seven days, Ensenada has experienced a series of mini-tremors—think of them as nature’s gentle “how-do-you-dos.” We’ve had a 2.0, a 2.2, and a 2.3 magnitude twist, culminating in a more respectable 2.9 magnitude. It’s like Mother Earth is stretching her legs and letting out a yawn, without actually getting out of bed. Not exactly headline material for a blockbuster disaster movie, but enough to remind us we’re living on one lively tectonic spot.  

And just when Ensenada thought it was the star of the show, Baja California Sur chimed in with a 4.0 magnitude quake. That one was strong enough to rattle a few windows and maybe send some taco stands into a temporary state of distress—but fear not, all’s well in Baja. 

Why Is This Happening? 

Let’s talk facts. The Baja California Peninsula is essentially sitting on the boundary of two tectonic plates—the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate. Every so often, these plates decide to shift a little, and when they do, we get to enjoy these “dance moves” from the comfort of our homes. Nothing major, just tectonic plates working out their differences. It’s kind of like when your upstairs neighbors decide to rearrange their furniture at 2 a.m.—annoying, but harmless. 

Scientists have reassured us that these smaller quakes are actually pretty normal. According to CICESE (Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education of Ensenada), these small tremors are a regular part of life here, a way for the Earth to release tension gradually. It’s like nature’s version of a massage to avoid a stiff back—better the occasional twitch than one big cramp, right? 

For those of you new to Baja and wondering if you need to stock up on canned beans and bottled water, take a deep breath. These mini-earthquakes are not a cause for alarm. Think of them as the Earth’s way of reminding us that she’s still in charge—just a soft poke in the ribs, not a knockout punch. You might feel a little wobble, but unless it’s enough to make you spill your morning coffee, there’s no reason to lose any sleep over it.  

Besides, it gives us all a great excuse to swap stories about “that one time I felt the earth move”—romantic implications entirely optional. 

While earthquakes are an inevitable part of living in a tectonically active area, they also offer us an opportunity to engage with each other. If the ground’s gonna move, maybe our hearts and minds should too.  

Let’s turn these quakes into conversations. Ever felt an earthquake and thought, “Wow, that was kinda cool?” Or maybe you’ve been startled awake, only to realize it was just another “hello” from below. Why not share your story? Whether you’ve been here for years or just arrived, we’d love to hear your experiences. It might help ease someone else’s anxiety, and hey, it’s not every day you get to share a literal earth-shaking event. 

What To Do Next Time 

Now, just because we’re laughing about these tiny tremors doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be prepared. If you’re feeling these shakes, it’s always a good idea to have a little plan in place, just in case Mother Nature decides to kick things up a notch. A flashlight, a stash of bottled water, and a sense of humor are always good things to have around. You know the drill—don’t panic, drop to the ground, and hold on.  

The good news is that for most of us, the worst we’ve experienced is a few jittery nerves and maybe a plant falling off a shelf. No bad news here, just a reminder that the ground beneath our feet is never completely still. 

So, folks, let’s take this as a reminder: we’re living in a beautiful, wild, and occasionally unpredictable place. The ground might shake, the tide might rise, but we’re all in this together. Let’s keep things light-hearted, stay informed, and make sure we’ve got each other’s backs.  

If you’ve got a funny earthquake story, a survival tip, or just a thought on how these shakes make you feel, we’d love for you to share. Because in Baja, we’re all about community, a little bit of fun, and keeping things as steady as possible—even when the Earth itself doesn’t. 

Let’s keep laughing, keep talking, and keep enjoying life here in this sometimes shaky, always amazing corner of the world.

0 254
 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, Events

The 2nd Baja Women’s Conference is Here to Save Your Sanity: Ready to Recharge?

Ladies of Baja, it’s time to dust off your best yoga pants and get ready for a day that’s all about you—no kids, no partners, no to-do lists. Just you, a bunch of like-minded women, and an agenda that’s all about recharging those life batteries. 

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 21st, because from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, the Second Baja Women’s Conference is taking over CEART in Rosarito. Think of it as a spa day for the soul, but with more chakras, a splash of creativity, and a side of salsa—yes, dancing, not the dip.

This isn’t your average conference where you nod off after too much coffee. No, this is a day designed to make you feel like the rockstar you are. Whether you’re looking to rediscover your creative side, sort out your chakras, or just want to have a comfortable chat about sex (because, why not?), there’s something here for everyone.

Sessions will be offered in English, Spanish, and even a bit of Spanglish because we know you’ve got that bilingual game down. Here’s just a taste of what’s on the menu:

Bilingual Sessions: Start your day with Gloria Snyder’s “Women’s Circle,” where you’ll find and strengthen your voice in life, speech, and even song with Carol Clary’s “Find and Strengthen Your Voice in Life, Speech, and Song.” If you’re in need of some serious zen, don’t miss Rose Lee’s “Chakras, Reiki, Singing Bowls.”

English Sessions: Things get spicy with Sherri Jaye’s “A Comfortable Chat on Sex,” where nothing’s off-limits. On the more holistic side, Winifred Morice will dive into “Nutrition: Wellness is an Inside Job,” while Sue McDevitt explores the “Role of Creativity in Self Care.”

For those of you who’ve been carrying the weight of the world, Alice Vernoux’s “Female Myth of Servitude: Reframing the Caretaker Role” is a must-attend. Heal through art with Shauna Robeson’s “Healing Art Therapy,” and learn how to stock a pantry that would make any nutritionist proud with Karen Schuppert’s “Building a Healthy Pantry.” 

If you’ve got some thoughts about your end-of-life plans but haven’t quite put them on paper, Marti and Karri Benjamin will guide you through “Making Your End-of-Life Wishes Known.”  Stress got you down? Maria Denzin will help you balance it all out in “Stress and Creating Balance.” Suzanne Mulroy takes a deep dive into what it means to be truly healthy in “Rethinking Dis-ease and What it Means to Be Healthy.” Marti Benjamin returns with “Flourish: The Science of Well-being,” and if you’ve got some old wounds that need tending, Elizabeth Bello’s “Transforming Trauma to Passion” will show you how to turn that pain into power.

And let’s not forget the often-ignored but totally important topic of menopause and andropause—Dr. Gloria Godinez has you covered in “Menopause and Andropause.”

Spanish Sessions: For our Spanish-speaking sisters, Dra. Gloria Godinez will also be discussing “Entendiendo la Menopausia y la Andropausia,” while Dra. Neblina Ninel Vega Salazar will explore “La Otra Cara de la Depresión.” If you’ve been carrying childhood baggage, Lic. Claudia Araujo’s “Sanando a Tu Niña Interior” is where you need to be. Creativity doesn’t just have to be in English—Sue McDevitt’s “El Papel de la Creatividad en el Autocuidado” will be offered en español as well. 

Gloria Snyder returns with “El Poder de tu Palabra,” a session that will have you owning your voice in no time. And for those looking to reclaim their power, Dra. Elvia Moreno Berry’s “Mujeres y Empoderamiento” and Nina Raffaele Aponte’s “Empoderamiento de la Nutrición Holística” will be essential stops on your conference journey.

But wait, there’s more! The day wraps up with a salsa dancing lesson from the fabulous Gabriela López Arnaut. So, not only will you leave with a recharged mind and spirit, but you’ll also have some new moves to show off at your next fiesta.

Why Should You Care? 

Let’s be real. Life gets hectic. Between work, family, and the occasional meltdown over where to put the avocado toast on the food pyramid, we all need a day to step back and focus on number one: YOU. The Baja Women’s Conference is your golden ticket to do just that. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, motivated, and maybe even a little bit wiser—or at least with a better pantry.

And hey, it’s not just about the sessions. It’s about connecting with other women who get it, who’ve been there, done that, and might even have the T-shirt. This is your tribe, and they’re waiting to meet you.

Tickets are going fast (because who wouldn’t want in on this?), so grab yours online for $65.00. If you’re more of a last-minute planner, they’re $75.00 at the door. Head over to Baja Women’s Conference Website for all the details, session info, and to snag your ticket before they’re gone.

And let’s not forget to give a shoutout to the conference’s advertising sponsor, The Shack Sports Bar and Grill, because nothing says “women’s empowerment” like knowing where to grab a cold one after a day of self-care.

So, whether you’re looking to strengthen your voice, balance your chakras, or just have a good laugh while learning a thing or two, the Second Baja Women’s Conference is where you need to be. This isn’t just an event—it’s an investment in yourself. And let’s face it, you’re worth it.

Don’t miss out on this chance to recharge, refocus, and maybe even learn how to dance like nobody’s watching (but if they are, you’ll be ready). See you there, chicas!

0 201
 Articles, Baja Norte, Events

Get Ready for “El Grito”! Mexico’s Independence Day in Baja

It’s that time of year again—when the air is filled with the smell of tacos, the crackle of fireworks, and the undeniable urge to shout “¡Viva México!” at the top of your lungs. Yes, we’re talking about Mexico’s Independence Day! And this isn’t just your regular run-of-the-mill, let’s-light-a-sparkler type of celebration. No, folks, this is big. Bigger than your neighbor’s oversized sombrero, and possibly louder too (Los Ángeles Azules, anyone?).

So, What’s the Big Deal About September 16th?

Let’s clear this up. September 16th marks Mexico’s official Independence Day. If you thought Cinco de Mayo was the big one, well, you’ve probably spent too much time at tourist bars. Independence Day is when Mexico celebrates breaking free from Spanish rule—think of it as the country’s 4th of July but with way more spice. This year’s festivities are packing a punch across Baja, and you’re definitely going to want to be part of it. And lucky for you, there’s no shortage of events to choose from.

The Grito: Not Just Yelling—It’s Patriotic

First things first: the “Grito de Independencia.” If you’re new to the scene, here’s the deal. It all goes down the night of September 15th when local officials (in outfits that put Uncle Sam to shame) step out onto balconies and reenact the legendary call to arms, originally screamed by priest Miguel Hidalgo in 1810. Thousands gather in town squares, and once the cry is done, the party kicks off. Think of it like when the ball drops on New Year’s Eve, but instead of confetti, there are churros.

Baja’s Events—Where to Be and Why

Tijuana: Tijuana is pulling out all the stops this year with Sonora Dinamita leading the celebrations. The event kicks off at 6:00 PM at the Glorieta del Monumento a Miguel Hidalgo, and let’s just say, if you’re not dancing, you’re doing it wrong. With music that’ll have everyone moving, and fireworks lighting up the sky, it’s a fiesta you won’t want to miss.

Rosarito: For those in Rosarito, the Palacio Municipal will host a lively verbena popular starting at 6:00 PM. Expect delicious Mexican street food, traditional crafts, and artisanal goods. Live music will start at 7:00 PM, keeping the energy high until the Grito at 10:00 PM, delivered by the mayor herself. The festivities continue with music until midnight, ensuring a night filled with joy and community spirit.

Ensenada: If you’re in Ensenada, get ready for a traditional Mexican fiesta at the Explanada del DIF Municipal. There’s no big-name performance this year, but the night will be filled with the authentic spirit of Mexico: live music, dance performances, and, of course, delicious street food at 6:00 pm. So, while you may not have Sonora Dinamita to groove to, the atmosphere will more than make up for it with a strong focus on cultural pride and community spirit.

Mexicali: Over in Mexicali, the party’s getting kicked up a notch with Los Ángeles Azules taking over at 11:00 PM. The Grito will be followed by a massive fireworks show, tons of food stands (you’ll want to visit at least twice), and a crowd that’s as lively as the tacos are spicy. If you’re up for a dance marathon under the Baja sky, Mexicali is the place to be.

Now, before you head out to any of these events, here are a few tips to make sure you’re fiesta-ready:

– Wear something green, white, or red. Yes, you’ll feel like you’re auditioning for a Mexican flag-themed pageant, but it’s all in good fun.

– Get your grito voice ready. Whether you’re shouting “¡Viva México!” or something that sort of sounds like it, volume matters. So don’t hold back.

– Pace your taco intake or pozole, tamales chile en nogada, tinga (Almost all mexican plates you can imagine together) . We get it. The sight of freshly made tacos al pastor can make anyone weak at the knees. But if you’re planning to make it through the night, a slow and steady approach will serve you well. Trust us, you don’t want to tap out before the fireworks.

You might be wondering, “Why should I get involved?” Well, aside from the fact that it’s a blast, celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day is a way to connect with the local community. Whether you’ve lived in Baja for years or just touched down last week, this is a moment where everyone comes together, united by good food, great music, and, of course, the love of tequila.

Besides, who doesn’t love a good excuse to party? You can always tell your friends back home that you’re “immersing yourself in the local culture.” You might even learn a thing or two about Mexican history between cumbia beats. But mostly, you’ll leave with a full stomach, new friends, and a head full of fireworks.

So put on your best sombrero, grab your friends, and get ready for a night filled with fireworks, fun, and lots of gritos. ¡Viva México, indeed! 

0 343
Send this to a friend