Newport to Ensenada Regatta Set to Sail Again for its 77th Edition

Ahoy, sailors and landlubbers alike! Get ready to grab your sun hats and binoculars because the iconic Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race is back for its 77th year—and it’s bringing plenty of wind, waves, and international camaraderie with it.

The City of Ensenada, under the leadership of Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz, proudly announced that everything’s shipshape for one of the biggest nautical events between Mexico and the U.S.

Representing the mayor, Jared Gutiérrez López, Director of International Affairs, and Andrés Marínez Bremer, President of Proturismo, met up with Newport Beach Mayor Joe Stapleton, NOSA Commodore Philip Herzfeld, and Mexico’s Consul in Santa Ana, Audrey Rivera Gómez, among other dignitaries and VIPs, to celebrate the regatta’s launch.

This historic race isn’t just about fancy yachts and shiny trophies—it’s about the deep friendship and growing ties between the sister cities of Newport Beach and Ensenada. Around 130 sailboats are expected to make the legendary journey south, reaffirming maritime and cultural bonds that have been cruising strong for decades.

When the boats start arriving in Ensenada, expect a fiesta fit for a fleet! The city will roll out the welcome mat with special receptions, cultural activities, and commemorative events organized by local and state authorities, along with nautical clubs from both sides of the border.

“The Newport to Ensenada Regatta is a shining example of international cooperation that strengthens our community,” said Jared Gutiérrez on behalf of Mayor Agatón. “This historic connection continues to place Ensenada on the global sailing map.”

The City of Ensenada invites everyone—from hardcore sailors to curious spectators—to come celebrate this unique event full of sport, culture, and international friendship. So mark your calendars, polish those deck shoes, and let’s make this another unforgettable race!

2025: A Very Grape Year for Provino (Calendar of Wine Events)

Loosen your belt, wine lovers—because 2025 is about to get delicious.—scratch that, walk steadily and hydrate, wine lovers—because Provino Baja California is rolling out the cork carpet in 2025, and the lineup is juicier than a sun-ripened grape in Valle de Guadalupe. Under the charmingly serious theme of “Terruño, Identidad y Vocación” (which basically means “This land was made for wine and we’ve got the talent to prove it”), this year’s events promise to be a delicious mix of vino, seafood, culture, and just enough fancy to remind you to iron your linen shirt.

Let’s take a tipsy stroll through the year, shall we?

IX Salón del Vino

  • 📍 Hotel Coral & Marina
  • 📅 April 11
  • 🎟️ Invitation only (aka, bring your wine biz card)

This is Provino’s version of a job fair—but for wine. No crowds, no “try this and smile awkwardly,” just serious sniffing, swirling, and schmoozing between 70 Baja wineries and buyers from Mexico and SoCal. You can’t buy your way in, so unless you’re a distributor or food & beverage exec, you might have to settle for sipping in the parking lot. (Kidding. Sort of.)

V Mesas Marinas

  • 📍 Andador Cultural UABC, Sauzal
  • 📅 April 12 | 2:00 PM
  • 🎟️ 3,500 pesos (but it’s a steal, really)

Imagine this: 15 tables, 20 lucky guests per table, and a dream team of chef + winemaker + shellfish whisperer serving you a four-course feast by the sea. We’re talking abalone, oysters, mussels, and other seafood you can’t pronounce but will gladly eat. Pair that with Baja’s finest whites and bubbly, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable afternoon—just try not to lick the plate.

XXV Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo

  • 📍 Hotel Coral & Marina
  • 📅 April 13 | 12:00 PM–7:00 PM
  • 🎟️ 1,400 pesos
  • 🚫 No kids, no pets. Just grown-up fun.

This is the big one, folks. The Conchas Festival is turning 25, and like any quarter-life celebration, it’s going all out. 80 wineries, 50+ restaurants, and over 160 new wine labels await you, from fresh whites to effervescent Pét-Nats. There’s also a shellfish pavilion (try saying that after a few tastings), live cooking demos, a mollusk cook-off, and the now-iconic “marina island” with seafood rice and noodles flying off the burners. Wear stretchy pants. Trust us.

VIII Conferencias en Flor

  • 📍 Auditorio CEVIT, CETYS Universidad
  • 📅 June 13 | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
  • 🎟️ Free (just register and pretend you’re a responsible adult)

For those who like to learn while they sip, this one’s for you. Experts will dive into sustainable farming, water conservation, and vineyard science. It’s like TED Talks for people who know the difference between Tempranillo and Nebbiolo.

XIX Fiesta de los Viñedos en Flor

  • 📍 Somewhere green and magical
  • 📅 June 14 | 12:00 PM–7:00 PM
  • 🎟️ 950 pesos | Kids under 18 get in free (finally!)

This is the rare Provino event that lets you bring the whole family—and for a good cause, too. All the proceeds support local vulnerable communities, and everyone donates their time and products. Expect wine (of course), a country market, kid-friendly zones, an art auction with paintings made on-site, and even traditional Kumiai cuisine. Bonus: your kids might finally understand why you love Baja wine so much.

Inauguración XXXV Fiestas de la Vendimia

  • 📍 Hotel Coral & Marina
  • 📅 July 30
  • 🎟️ Invitation only—again with the exclusivity!

This is where the wine party season officially begins. If you know someone, now’s the time to cash in that favor.

XXXV Muestra del Vino

  • 📍 Centro Cultural Riviera del Pacífico
  • 📅 August 1 | 7:00 PM
  • 🎟 1,200 pesos

The OG wine tasting event that launched the Fiestas de la Vendimia decades ago is still going strong. With 84 wineries, 160+ wines, and the people who made them pouring directly into your glass, it’s like Baja’s answer to Comic-Con—but instead of capes and comics, it’s corks and canapés.

XXXV Concurso de Paellas

  • 📍 Viña de Liceaga
  • 📅 August 17 | 12:00 PM–7:00 PM
  • 🎟️ 1,450 pesos | Kids under 12 get in free (but keep Fido at home)

We’re closing out Vendimia season with a bang—and a whole lot of saffron. This beloved event is peak Ensenada summer tradition, where 80+ teams battle it out to cook the ultimate paella while 84 wineries pour over 160 wine labels. It’s rustic elegance under 120-year-old oak trees with a whole lot of rice and rhythm. Come hungry, leave happy (and probably a little sun-kissed).

IV Festival Vino Sin Fronteras

  • 📍 Tijuana, B.C.
  • 📅 October 11
  • 🎟️ 1,500 pesos | Adults only, sorry fur babies

This cross-border celebration brings together 40 wineries and 100+ wines, plus restaurants from all over Baja. Expect a musical lineup that spotlights local talent and a guest wine region that keeps things fresh. It’s all about wine, unity, and a little international flair—because why limit your palate to one side of the border?

III Velada Cultural del Día de Muertos: Noche de Ofrendas

  • 📍 Sala de Tintos, Bodegas de Santo Tomás
  • 📅 November 1 | 7:00 PM–12:00 AM
  • 🎟️ 1,200 pesos | Adults only

This isn’t your average Day of the Dead gig. It’s a cultural deep dive into the afterlife with wine—100+ Baja labels, traditional Mexican food, mariachi, ballet folklórico, and live music. Come dressed to impress your ancestors (think catrina chic) and dance the night away surrounded by altars and ofrendas.

Tarde de Ofrendas

  • 📍 Plaza Santo Tomás, Ensenada
  • 📅 November 2 | 2:00 PM–7:00 PM
  • 🎟️ Free | Family-friendly

A lighter, more casual follow-up to the previous night’s festivities. Expect a kermés-style afternoon with altar contests, food stalls, live performances, and of course—more wine. It’s the perfect setting to bring the whole family and honor tradition with a Baja twist.

Wanna go? Check out provinobc.mx/eventos for tickets and details.

Everything Ready for the SCORE San Felipe 250 in Baja California

San Felipe is gearing up to host one of the most anticipated events on the international off-road racing calendar—the 38th edition of the SCORE San Felipe 250, running from April 3 to April 6. With strong support from the State Government led by Governor Marina del Pilar, this event is set to bring both adrenaline and a boost to local tourism.

So far, 234 teams have registered from all over the globe, including Argentina, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, the United States, Japan, and Mexico. Registrations remain open until April 3, with numbers expected to keep climbing.

State Tourism Secretary Miguel Aguíñiga Rodríguez put it best: “The SCORE San Felipe 250 is more than just a race—it’s a tourism engine that puts Baja California on the world stage. It celebrates the union of sport, adventure, and our unique hospitality as a destination.”

Participants have already begun familiarizing themselves with the official 250-mile route through extreme terrain—a challenging stretch that promises plenty of technical hurdles in the San Felipe desert.

Event Schedule:

• Thursday, April 3: Trophy Trucks take part in an exclusive qualification round.

• Friday, April 4: Official mechanical inspections (Tech & Contingency) kick off, with a meet-up for fans, media, and racers.

• Saturday, April 5: 6:00 a.m. – Motorcycles and Quads hit the track; 10:00 a.m. – Four-wheel vehicles officially take off.

• Sunday, April 6: The event wraps up with an award ceremony celebrating the off-road spirit.

For more details on the race, visit score-international.com and bajacalifornia.travel.

Rosarito’s Spring Break 2025: A Mixed Bag for Local Tourism

Rosarito’s business community is expressing concern over the noticeable decline in American spring breakers this season. Gustavo Torres Ramírez, president of the Consejo Coordinador Empresarial (CCE) and a hotelier, noted a 15% drop in hotel occupancy compared to last year. Despite efforts like discounts and joint promotions with restaurants and beach clubs, the anticipated influx of young American tourists hasn’t materialized.

Torres Ramírez attributes this downturn to economic uncertainties in the U.S., suggesting that fears of a recession are prompting potential visitors to tighten their belts and prioritize financial stability over vacations. This cautious spending behavior is reflected in decreased activity on booking platforms like Booking.com and Expedia, as travelers delay or cancel plans.

Despite these challenges, Rosarito continues to host vibrant Spring Break events aimed at attracting both domestic and international visitors. Papas&Beer, a renowned beachfront venue, is offering four consecutive weekends of festivities featuring live performances from artists like Diplo, Sexyy Red, Wiz Khalifa, and Lil Jon. These events promise pool parties, open bars, and beachfront concerts designed to create unforgettable experiences for attendees. 

Additionally, the Spring Break Bike Fest 2025 took place from March 21st to 23rd at Coco Beach. This action-packed weekend included motorcycle stunts, live performances by artists such as G. Perico and WC “The Shadiest One”, and access to multiple clubs with open bars. 

Looking ahead, the local tourism sector is pinning hopes on the upcoming Tianguis Turístico in April to provide a much-needed boost. However, Torres Ramírez warns that summer occupancy rates may continue to lag behind 2024 figures. He emphasizes the importance of addressing persistent issues, such as police corruption affecting tourists, which tarnishes Rosarito’s image and deters potential visitors.

While the current season presents hurdles, Rosarito’s commitment to hosting dynamic events and improving the tourist experience reflects a proactive approach to revitalizing its appeal as a premier Spring Break destination.

Rosarito Gears Up for the 2025 Tianguis Turístico

Get ready, Rosarito! The 2025 Tianguis Turístico is just around the corner, and the city is expecting over 10,000 visitors from April 28 to May 1 at the Baja California Center.

Mayor Rocío Adame Muñoz is leading the charge, ensuring the event boosts local tourism and the economy. She acknowledged the efforts of President Claudia Sheinbaum and Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila in bringing this major international event to Baja California.

Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses are set to benefit big-time, as thousands of industry professionals and tourists flood the area. Adame Muñoz also assured visitors that her administration is fully committed to providing a safe and top-tier experience for everyone attending.

With just weeks to go, Rosarito is rolling out the red carpet for what promises to be one of the biggest tourism events of the year!

Get Ready for the “El Bebé” Fishing Tournament in Rosarito This March 30th

Rosarito’s “Playa El Bebé” will host the first round of Baja California’s state fishing competition this coming Sunday, March 30th, and organizers are expecting a strong turnout. Last year, the event drew nearly 150 anglers from across the state and Southern California.

The competition is part of the official calendar of SEPESCA BC, supported by Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda’s administration, and organized by the Baja California Fishing Clubs Association. This year’s tournament is being hosted by TJ Fishing Club, represented by Nemesio Salazar Vázquez and Omar Reyes Moreno.

This event is the first of three selective beach fishing tournaments that will qualify participants for the State Championship. The tournament will kick off at 5:00 AM, with registration for anglers. The official start of fishing will be at 7:00 AM, and the weigh-in will close at 1:00 PM, allowing participants who are in line by that time to still compete.

At the end of the day, prizes will be awarded in categories such as children’s, women’s, mojarra, and other species. There will also be raffles and food made with local fish.

For those interested in participating, details on registration, costs, rules, and prizes can be found by calling 664 493 6014 or 664 339 9173, or by emailing tjfishingclub@gmail.com. More information is also available on their website.

In support of the event, Victor Hugo Méndez, head of Sport Fishing at SEPESCA BC, presented financial support to the organizers to help cover event expenses.

If you want to compete, you can sign up the day of the event or pre-register at Pesca del Mar Outdoors in Ensenada or Fishing Crew Store in La Gloria.

Looking ahead, the next two rounds of the state competition will take place on April 27th at Sunset Beach in Ensenada, hosted by Club Pura Vida, and on July 20th at Playa El Pabellón in San Quintín, organized by Pioleros del Valle de San Quintín.

Top anglers from these events will have the chance to represent Baja California in the VI National Beach Sport Fishing Championship, held September 19-20 at Playa Manzanilla, Jalisco.

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!

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! 

Muestra del Vino 2024 Brings Wine, Music, and Food Together

The 2024 Fiestas de la Vendimia kicked off this friday August 2nd in style as wine lovers gathered at Ensenada’s Riviera Cultural Center for the much-anticipated Muestra del Vino. Now in its 34th edition, this event showcased some of the best wines that Baja California has to offer. Guests had the chance to sample 168 different wines—reds, whites, and rosés—from various local producers. With commemorative glasses in hand, attendees strolled through the event, stopping at different stations to sip and chat with winemakers. And of course, what’s wine without great food? Over 50 top-notch local restaurants brought their best dishes, pairing perfectly with the wines on offer.

It wasn’t just about the wine. Live music filled the air as guests wandered the scenic gardens and halls of the Riviera Center. From norteño beats to smooth jazz and lively cumbia, the music had everyone in good spirits. And to cap off the evening, Kinky rocked the stage, lighting up the night with their electric performance.

This year’s event wasn’t limited to showcasing Baja California wines. Chihuahua was featured as a guest wine region, adding a bit of variety to the offerings and building connections between different wine-producing areas in Mexico.

If you missed it, don’t worry. Muestra del Vino is an annual must-do. With a ticket price of 1,350 pesos, it definitely was a great deal for a night filled with fantastic wine, gourmet food, and live entertainment. Just remember, it’s an adults-only event—no kids or pets allowed.

Just like every year Muestra del Vino isn’t just a wine tasting event—it’s a celebration of Mexican wine culture, where great flavors and good times come together. Ready for next year?

Rosarito Takes Center Stage with First Opera Encounter

BY ARCHER INGRAM

Gear up, opera lovers and curious bystanders! The city of Playas de Rosarito in Baja California is gearing up to host its first-ever Opera Encounter in Rosarito (ENOR), set to transform the State Center for the Arts into the opera hub of the region from July 27 to August 3. This inaugural event is not just a series of performances; it’s a cultural movement aimed at making opera accessible and enjoyable for all.

The Baja California Secretary of Culture is spearheading this initiative, with a packed schedule that includes masterclasses, rehearsal sessions, insightful lectures, and riveting recitals. The event will gather a mix of experienced maestros, professional singers, and up-and-coming talents, all dedicated to providing a unique artistic experience that cultivates a deeper appreciation for this majestic art form.

According to Marco Antonio Nuño Sánchez, the coordinator of CEART Playas de Rosarito, the essence of ENOR is to foster artistic development, broaden the opera’s appeal to new audiences, and strengthen the cultural community. “By creating spaces for opera, we aim to not only entertain but also educate and inspire connections among local, national, and international artists,” Nuño Sánchez remarked.

This sentiment is echoed by Javier Carrillo, the artistic coordinator of ENOR Rosarito, who emphasized the festival’s role in breaking down the elitist barriers often associated with opera. “ENOR is designed to integrate opera culture in a natural and accessible setting for everyone. This week-long event focuses on unveiling the behind-the-scenes of opera production, from singer preparation to the complexities of staging an opera,” Carrillo explained.

One of the highlights of the Opera Encounter is the grand concert “Il baccio di Tosca,” scheduled for July 31. This performance will commemorate the centennial of Giacomo Puccini’s passing by bringing to life scenes from his iconic opera “Tosca.” The event will feature renowned opera stars Maria Katzarava as Floria Tosca, César Sánchez as Mario Cavaradossi, and Carlos Conde as Il Barone Scarpia. They will be accompanied by the Ghukasyan String Orchestra with Andrés Sarre at the piano, under the skilled direction of Armando Pesqueira, coordinator of the State Music System of Baja California.

As ENOR draws to a close, the festival will segue into the twelfth edition of the “Opera by the Sea Festival,” which will take place at the CEART Rosarito arts esplanade. This event is free to the public, further emphasizing the initiative’s goal to make cultural events accessible to a broader audience.

Local businesses and tourism operators are also set to benefit from the influx of visitors and cultural aficionados expected to attend the festival. This aligns with the broader vision of the organizers to not only enrich the cultural landscape but also stimulate the local economy through high-quality artistic events.

For those interested in experiencing this operatic extravaganza, further details about the program and ticket information can be found on the websites and social media pages of the Baja California Secretary of Culture and CEART Playas de Rosarito. This is a golden opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of opera right in the heart of Baja California.

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