Events

Articles, Events, Rosarito, Sports, Video

Rosarito’s Ultimate Fun Run: ‘Corre con Don Pisto’ Charity Race for Fitness and Community

Rosarito is lacing up its running shoes — or maybe just its walking shoes — for the first ever Corre con Don Pisto, a community race with a cause that blends exercise, charity, and a splash of local pride.

The press conference introducing the event felt less like a stiff announcement and more like a family reunion. That makes sense, because Don Pisto isn’t just a liquor company; it’s part of the Rosarito DNA. For over 30 years, the brand has been pouring not just drinks, but also steady support into local projects.

This first edition is dedicated to Bernardo Pérez, founder of Don Pisto, who passed away two years ago. Pérez was remembered as a strong, athletic, big-hearted man who rarely turned down an opportunity to help his community. His legacy is now running forward — quite literally — through this race.

The Cause Behind the Course

Proceeds will go to DIF Municipal, specifically to bolster rehabilitation services in Rosarito. Plans include a playful outdoor space for patients beginning the tough process of physical recovery, plus a circuit designed to help restore mobility after injuries. Organizers stressed this is more than just a race: it’s a way to fund hope, therapy, and second chances.

The Route & Rewards

The 5.5 km race kicks off September 7th at 8 a.m., starting and finishing at Don Pisto Castillos on Boulevard Popotla. The route winds through key intersections, with local authorities promising full security, ambulances on site, and traffic control so runners (or walkers, stroller-pushers, and wheelchair participants) can move safely.

Cash prizes are on the line: 3,000 pesos for first place, 2,000 for second, and 1,000 for third, with categories for men, women, and wheelchairs. Registration costs $250 pesos per person and can be done at Don Pisto branches, DIF offices, INDER, or even via WhatsApp if you’re out of town. The first 400 finishers will also score a commemorative medal at the finish line.

A Race for Everyone

Worried you’re not fast enough? Don’t be. As organizers said with a smile, “It’s okay, let’s walk. Bring the stroller, bring the dog, bring the neighbor. The important thing is to show up.”

And yes — because this is Rosarito — the press conference closed with an invitation to enjoy a cold Don Pisto beer. After all, it’s not every day you get to hydrate post-race with the sponsor’s finest brew.

So mark your calendars, Rosarito. Whether you’re sprinting, strolling, or rolling, Corre con Don Pisto is your chance to support the city, honor a local legacy, and maybe even earn a medal. Or at the very least, a well-deserved beer.

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Contramar Fest 2025 Press Crew
 Articles, Events, San Quintin

San Quintín Welcomes Contramar Fest with Wine and Sunset Magic

San Quintín is ready for the fourth edition of Contramar Fest. On September 6 at Playa San Ramón, Vicente Guerrero, visitors will enjoy seafood, wine, beer, and one legendary sunset.

Local Leaders Toast the Event

During the press conference, Baja California’s Secretary of Tourism, Zaida Luz López Sánchez, praised the festival. “It celebrates our identity, fuels the economy, and shows the strength of our cuisine,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ana Lourdes Lomelí Morales, CEO of the festival, stressed its original goal. Since 2021, Contramar has worked to spotlight San Quintín’s food, art, and traditions.


Contramar Fest swag lands on Francisco Ortega’s desk—because every Tourism Director deserves more than paperwork.

Sea, Land, and Plenty of Wine

This year’s menu features clams, oysters, lobster, and ceviches. Guests can pair them with wines like Prestigio de Becerra, from the valley’s first winery, and Vino Love, courtesy of Luis Alberto Lomelí Morales.

In addition, Anays Naranjo Araiza of Comercializadora Jimnar confirmed that local co-ops will supply fresh seafood. She also revealed their craft beer, created to match the region’s catch.

Music, Dancing, and That Sunset

The entertainment is just as tempting. Contramar Fest promises five hours of live music. The lineup shifts from DJs to norteño to dance beats. “Smile, taste, drink, and dance,” remains the official motto.

As a result, visitors can sip, dance, and then watch the sun set in style.

Beyond the Festival

Maricela Valladolid, VP of Proturismo San Quintín, said Contramar is part of a larger push to promote the town. Likewise, Francisco Alfredo Ortega Gamboa, municipal tourism director, explained that it now joins events like the Almejazo, Langostazo, Fiestas de la Vendimia and Agrofest. Both already attract fans from California, Arizona, and across Baja.

If You Go

  • 📍 Playa San Ramón, Vicente Guerrero, San Quintín
  • 📅 September 6, 2025 – from 3:00 p.m.
  • 🎟️ Tickets at Casa Magnolia, Ensenada, or @Contramar_fest on Instagram
  • 💲 $500–$600 pesos

Organizers also confirmed safety measures. Finally, they encouraged visitors to extend their stay. Options include missions, lagoons, volcanic hikes, and stargazing in San Pedro Mártir.

Bonus for Readers

Your GGNorth reporter walked away with a Sauvignon Blanc 2020 “Prestigio de Becerra”. The label even has a radar chart—stat fans will understand the thrill. Also gifted: a Jimnar Beer “El Chute Ámbar.”

Curious about the taste? Drop a comment, and I may share my review. It might even spark the next “Sabor Patrol” adventure.

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This Is Where the Story Literally Starts
 Events, Mexicali, Tijuana

Watch Baja’s Best Films Free in Tijuana and Mexicali Tonight

Baja California is known for wine festivals, fresh seafood, and weekend gossip. However, there’s another story worth telling—our movies. We make them here, we win awards with them, and tonight, you can watch two of them for free.

The BC by BC program, backed by Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda through the Baja California Film Commission, is bringing local talent into the spotlight. The goal is simple: combine art, economy, and identity, then show the results on the big screen.

Free Screenings in Tijuana and Mexicali

Starting at 6 p.m., Cinépolis Plaza Río in Tijuana and Cinépolis Plaza San Pedro in Mexicali will feature two Baja-born productions: Soy lo que nunca fui (2023) and Entre las cuerdas (2024).

Both have made an impact far beyond Baja’s borders. Now, they return home for a night of free cinema.

Soy lo que nunca fui (2023) — Tijuana Up Close

This is not your typical “border story” full of clichés. Instead, director Rodrigo Álvarez Flores offers an intimate look at a fractured family navigating emotional boundaries that run deeper than any wall.

Because the film was shot mostly at Estudios Baja and on real Tijuana streets, it captures the city’s true character. Each main character has a distinct visual style: wide shots for the restless, close frames for the introspective, and calm tones for those hiding chaos.

The cast includes Ángeles Cruz, Andrés Delgado, César Kancino, plus graduates from UDCI. Over the past year, the film has collected an impressive list of awards. Among them are Best Mexican Feature at GIFF, Audience Award at Cine Las Américas, and Best Picture at “Hola México” in Los Angeles. It has also been honored in Calcuta and Ensenada.

Clearly, Álvarez proves that Baja doesn’t just have stories—it has stories worth sharing with the world.

  • Tijuana, City Lights and Midnight Cinema
    #Some see the city asleep… others are filming it so it wakes up on screens around the world.
  • When Baja Talent Shows Even Behind the Mask
    #You don’t need to see the smile to know he’s directing pure gold. Tonight, 6 p.m., on the big screen

Entre las cuerdas (2024) — Tijuana in the Ring

If Soy lo que nunca fui is a slow burn, Entre las cuerdas throws the first punch early. Directed by Fernando A. Fisher, who grew up in Tijuana, the film follows Martín, a boxer fighting battles inside and outside the ring.

Filmed entirely in Tijuana over 17 days, it features a cast made up almost entirely of local talent. Because of its authenticity, it has earned international recognition, winning Best Picture and Best Director in Sweden, Audience Choice in London, and another Best Picture in Los Angeles.

Fisher’s film doesn’t sugarcoat the struggle. Instead, it shows the fight in its raw form, told by people who know it well.

Why This Matters for Baja

For decades, Baja was a backdrop for Hollywood pretending to be somewhere else. Although local crews got work, the stories weren’t ours.

Now, with directors like Álvarez and Fisher, Baja is telling its own stories. These films prove that local talent is not only strong but growing. That is why events like Séptimo 2.0 are essential. They provide a stage, and our filmmakers fill it with stories that travel far beyond the state line.

Tonight’s the Night

If you are in Tijuana or Mexicali, this is your chance. Two films, two directors, dozens of local actors, and hundreds of hours of Baja talent—all for free.

Head to Cinépolis Plaza Río or Cinépolis Plaza San Pedro by 6 p.m., grab some popcorn, and watch Baja’s stories unfold. By the time the credits roll, you will see it too: Baja is not just making movies—it is making its mark.

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Unforgettable Flavors Await at Bajas Paella Party
 Ensenada, Events, Wine

Baja’s Paella Contest Celebrates 35 Years With Wine and Music

This isn’t just another cook-off. The Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest is the grand finale of Ensenada’s 25-day Fiestas de la Vendimia—and this year marks the 35th anniversary. On Sunday, August 17, 2025, Viña de Liceaga will once again welcome wine lovers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a proper campestre party under 120-year-old oak trees (plus one majestic 500-year-old roble that’s basically a celebrity).

A Tradition Worth Savoring

Since the late 1980s, this event has honored the memory of Dr. Ramón García Ocejo, who championed Ensenada’s wine and culinary culture. Today, more than 90 paella teams will light their wood fires (gas is strictly forbidden) and serve their creations to the crowd. Meanwhile, 80 Baja wineries will pour more than 160 wine labels—a perfect match for a plate of smoky, saffron-infused goodness. Two live music stages will keep the energy high all afternoon.

Seafood Royalty in a Pan

#Lobster tails, shrimp, and scallops—this paella team isn’t here to play. A true showstopper at the 2025 Paella Contest

The Competition & Prizes

The judging is handled by the Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California (Spanish acronym: AGAPE – The “Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California”). Paellas are coded for anonymous tasting and scored on color, appearance, flavor, and texture.

Two categories take the spotlight:

  • Quality: flavor, texture, and presentation.
  • Visual Presentation: beauty and order of the cooking station.

Winners receive trophies, wine, paella pans, aprons, commemorative merch, and consumption vouchers worth around $14,000 MXN from sponsors like Afirme and La Canasta. And yes—tour packages are raffled among all attendees to close the day with a bang.

By the way, if you spot me near a good glass of Sauvignon Blanc, please come say hi. I’ll probably be there.

Family-Friendly (With a Few Rules)

Kids under 12 get in free, but no pets are allowed. The setting is pure countryside charm, with activities for children and plenty of shaded spots for adults to sip and chat.

Baja’s Biggest Paella Party Returns
#Mark your calendar—August 17 at Viña de Liceaga. Over 90 teams, 160 wines, live music, and zero excuses to miss it.

Your Insider’s Guide to Enjoying the Paella Contest

Get There Early

Gates open at 12 PM, but parking and prime shady spots go fast. If you arrive late, you risk long lines and missing the first tastings.

Parking & Transportation

On-site parking is limited and fills up quickly. Therefore, consider ride-sharing with friends or using local transportation services. Many guests arrange drop-offs to avoid the parking scramble.

Dress for the Occasion

Comfortable shoes are a must—remember, you’ll be walking on dirt paths. A hat and sunglasses will help you handle the Baja summer sun, and a light jacket can be handy for the evening breeze. Additionally, some people treat this event like a Valle de Guadalupe-style fashion show—think wide-brimmed hats, cowboy boots, and crisp white linen.

Cash or Card?

Vendors may accept both, yet cash tends to be faster. Moreover, don’t forget your ticket includes all wine and paella tastings—no surprise charges for the essentials.

Plan Your Tastings

With 90+ paella teams and 160+ wines, you won’t try everything—but you can come close. Therefore, pace yourself, and don’t ignore the lesser-known wineries; they often have the hidden gems.

Stay for the Raffle

The prize drawings happen toward the end of the event. Consequently, many people miss out because they leave early. Stick around—you might just win that vacation.

Quick Facts

  • Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
  • Time: 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
  • Place: Viña de Liceaga, Ensenada, Baja California, MX
  • Price: $1,450 MXN (kids under 12 free)
  • No pets allowed
  • Dress code: Comfortable, summer-friendly, or go full Valle chic

Thirty-five years, thousands of paellas, and countless wine pours later, the Paella Contest remains Ensenada’s tastiest tradition. Therefore, mark your calendar, gather your crew, and get ready for a day of wine, wood smoke, and friendly competition. Just remember—show up early, stay hydrated, and save room for seconds.

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La Verbena 2025 Gets the Green Light
 Articles, Events, Mexicali, Wine

La Verbena Brings Bold Flavors and Big Energy to Ensenada

Ensenada is about to pop the cork on one of its most beloved harvest season traditions. La Verbena de Santo Tomás returns this Saturday, August 16, and it’s ready to prove that wine, art, and food can still throw a better party than Netflix.

This is the 33rd edition of the event, set in the heart of downtown at the Plaza Santo Tomás. Organized by the Fundación Elías Pando and the Centro Cultural Santo Tomás, it’s part of the Fiestas de la Vendimia—aka Ensenada’s annual excuse to celebrate wine like it’s an Olympic sport.

Why “La Verbena”?

The name comes from an old Spanish tradition where towns gathered at night for music, dancing, food, and drink. It also happens to be the name of a plant (Verbena officinalis) once used in folk celebrations. In other words, “verbena” is basically code for “let’s party, but classy.”

A Local Icon

Yes, it’s emblematic. La Verbena isn’t just another Vendimia event—it’s a love letter to Ensenada’s cultural and wine roots. It also puts the spotlight on Bodegas de Santo Tomás, the oldest winery in Baja California, founded in 1888. This year’s edition brings back the intimate, community vibe with a 150-pesos cover that includes tastings, a commemorative glass, and enough reasons to call a taxi.

Wine First, Beer… Maybe Later

Traditionally, it’s all about the wine—especially when you’re standing in the shadow of one of Mexico’s wine pioneers. This year, beer will also be available. We’re not saying you shouldn’t enjoy it, but if you’re here for hops, you might be missing the point. The focus is still on wine in all its forms: experimental blends, food pairings, and guided tastings.

What’s On the Menu?

Expect live music from electronic beats to Latin rhythms, performance art, grape stomping, and wine workshops. The Plaza’s restaurants will serve up local flavors, while pop-up kitchens and tasting bars keep your glass and plate full. Look for the “Cata y Coto” sessions at Bar Escala and bites from chefs working right in front of you.

Behind the Scenes at La Verbena
#Loic Barbara, the mastermind behind La Verbena’s cultural mix, promises a celebration with wine, flavor, and more dance moves than you expect.

Culture Meets Celebration

Art installations, creative markets, and kids’ activities make this a family-friendly affair. That said, don’t be surprised if you spend most of your time hopping between wine stands like a well-dressed scavenger hunter.

La Verbena runs from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, which means you have 12 solid hours to experience one of Ensenada’s most charming traditions. It’s not just a party—it’s a taste of the city’s history in every sip.

Bottom line: If you’ve never been, you’re overdue. And if you have, you already know this is the event where Ensenada shows off its true flavor—one pour at a time.

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 Events, Food, Philanthropy, Wine

Paella, Wine, and a Good Cause? We’re In

Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 20, 2025—because Ensenada’s most delicious fundraiser is back.

Paella de Verano is setting up camp once again at CETYS Universidad, and it’s not just about rice and seafood. This annual get-together mixes wine, local beer, music, and one massive pan of generosity.

For the price of 3,000 pesos (about $166 USD), you get:

  • A steaming plate of fresh-cooked paella
  • A glass (or three) of Baja’s finest regional wine
  • Local craft beer
  • Live entertainment, including a special performance by the CETYS student orchestra (yes, they’re that good)
  • That warm fuzzy feeling from doing something good

And yes, your ticket includes everything. No add-ons, no upcharges—just vibes and value.

#image_title

So, What’s It For?

Besides giving your taste buds a vacation, Paella de Verano raises money for CETYS’s scholarship fund. That matters—because 8 out of 10 students at CETYS rely on some kind of financial aid. Your ticket helps keep dreams alive, degrees on track, and young people in school instead of in debt.

Foodie Approved

Local restaurants are showing up and throwing down. This year, culinary support comes from Ensenada favorites like Punta Morro, Evoke, La Cevichería, and La Ensenada—all committed to education and flavor in equal measure.

It’s not just a fundraiser. It’s a flavor-raiser.

Event Snapshot:

  • Where: CETYS Universidad, Ensenada campus
  • When: Saturday, September 20, 2025
  • Tickets: 3,000 pesos (≈ $166 USD)
  • Includes: Paella, regional wines, local beer, live music (featuring CETYS student orchestra), and your good deed of the day
  • Restaurants Supporting the Cause: Punta Morro, Evoke, La Cevichería, and La Ensenada

Skip the boring weekend plans. Come hungry, come thirsty, and come ready to make a difference. After all, nothing says “I care about education” quite like a second helping of paella.

For tickets or donations, visit: www.cetys.mx/generosidad/product/paella-de-verano-2025

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 Articles, Events, Rosarito

Rosarito Brings the Opera Back to the Beach—Free for All

Rosarito’s seaside stage gets ready for its second grand operatic comeback—yes, with real high notes and no high drama.

If you’ve ever wanted to sip wine, watch the sun dip into the Pacific, and hear a soprano hit a note that could crack glass—this is your moment. Rosarito’s XIII Opera by the Sea is back for its second official Operatic Encounter, and it’s not your grandma’s opera night (though she’s totally invited).

From Street Corners to Sea Stages

Back in 2009, inspired by Tijuana’s “Ópera en la Calle,” a group of cultural movers and shakers brought the drama (the good kind) to the beach. Their goal? Take world-class opera out of the theater and into the heart of Baja—with ocean views and free admission.

#Flyer from 2016

For a few years, it became a local favorite. Then, after a break, the festival returned in 2023. This time, it wasn’t just about singing—it added workshops, lectures, and more ways to get the crowd involved.

What’s Happening This Year?

From August 9 to 15, Rosarito’s CEART will host the Second Operatic Encounter (ENOR). This means a full week of masterclasses, rehearsals, and musical happenings—all open to the public and completely free.

Moreover, the grand finale takes place on Saturday, August 16, from 3 PM to 9 PM at the Explanada de las Artes, an outdoor space just steps from the sea. Expect theatrical performances, powerful voices, and the best sunset backdrop on the coast.

Why Should You Go?

First off, it’s fun. This isn’t a black-tie event where clapping at the wrong time gets you the side-eye. Instead, think flip-flops, food trucks, and open-air arias.

Second, it brings the arts to everyone. Whether you’re an opera regular or have no clue what a mezzo-soprano is, there’s something for you here. Even kids get into it.

Plus, you’ll support local talent, meet artists from around Mexico, and enjoy Rosarito’s food scene in one go.

A Cultural Boost, Baja Style

Opera can sometimes feel distant, but this festival makes it approachable. During the week, performers offer workshops and Q&A sessions. As a result, you get to see how the magic happens—no ticket required.

This effort also boosts Rosarito’s profile as more than just a beach town. Thanks to events like this, it’s becoming a cultural destination too.

Know Before You Go

  • ENOR Events: August 9–15, 9 AM–6 PM
  • Location: CEART Playas de Rosarito
  • Final Performance: August 16, 3 PM–9 PM
  • Entry Fee: $0 pesos. Yep, free.
  • What to Bring: Curiosity, sunscreen, and maybe a chair.

Final Notes

Whether you’re an opera buff or just opera-curious, Opera by the Sea makes for a great day out. It’s free, it’s cultural, and it’s got wine. What else do you need?

Besides, where else can you hear Verdi while wearing sandals?

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 Events, Rosarito

Furniture, Flair, and Furry Friends Welcome at Expo Mueble BC 2025

Get ready to furnish your calendar—Expo Mueble BC is back for its eighth edition, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more creative than ever. The furniture and design showcase will take over the Baja Center (Centro Metropolitano de Convenciones) from June 27 to 29, 2025, promising a packed lineup of over 80 exhibitors from across Mexico.

This year’s event brings together the best of the best in home comfort, interior design, architecture, and artisanal craftsmanship. Think hand-forged ironwork, custom wood pieces, elegant rattan creations, and more—all under one roof. And yes, your well-behaved pets are invited too.

Lorena López Mijangos, Commercial Director of Expo Mueble, says the goal is to make this event the go-to platform for furniture businesses in Latin America. “It will be a one-of-a-kind experience where visitors can meet the artists, the artisans, and the creators behind the designs—and even make purchases on-site,” she said during a press conference at Casa Municipal.

In addition to top talent from Baja California, attendees can expect to meet makers from Nuevo León, Chihuahua, Querétaro, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Oaxaca, and Mexico City. Organizers estimate more than 8,000 visitors will walk through the doors over the course of the three-day event.

Local pride will also be on display, especially for the Boulevard Popotla artisan community, home to generations of craftspeople. City council members Yoselin Peña and Alan Bautista honored the legacy of pioneer Juan Bosco López and his family, who helped shape the area’s rich tradition.

To top it all off, the expo will host the first-ever “Design Without Borders” competition, aimed at up-and-coming talent in industrial design and home decor. Students from three major universities submitted 36 proposals, and the winning design will take home an 80,000-peso prize.

Whether you’re scouting a standout sofa or just soaking in the inspiration, Expo Mueble BC 2025 might be your next favorite event—and yes, your dog can come too.

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 Events, Fishing

Big Prizes and Big Fish Await at “Dos Mares Baja” Fishing Tournament Tomorrow!

Get your rods ready! The much-anticipated “Dos Mares Baja” International Sportfishing Tournament is dropping anchor this weekend in Bahía de los Ángeles, promising not just adventure on the water, but over 500,000 pesos in guaranteed prizes.

Organized under the administration of Governor Marina del Pilar Avila Olmeda and promoted by the Baja California Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture (SEPESCA BC), this event is reeling in teams from Southern California and across the state.

Alma Rosa García Juárez, head of SEPESCA BC, confirmed strong pre-registration numbers and emphasized the positive economic impact the tournament will have on the local community. Expect a weekend boost for hotels, restaurants, boat rental services, and more.

The prize pool includes:

  • 200,000 pesos for the team landing the heaviest surface or bottom fish
  • 100,000 pesos for second place
  • 60,000 pesos for third
  • 30,000 pesos for the top “Catch and Release” entry
  • 10,000 pesos each for the best female angler, best child angler, and best captain

And it doesn’t stop there. Add in the jackpot categories for surface and bottom fish, plus raffles featuring gear donated by sponsors during the awards night—it’s shaping up to be a fisherman’s dream.

Key dates to remember:

  • Friday, July 13: Registration, opening ceremony, and captain’s meeting
  • Saturday, July 14: The big fishing day, weigh-in, and awards ceremony

García Juárez also acknowledged the strong support from groups like the Baja California State Association of Fishing Clubs, CONAPESCA, the San Quintín municipal government, CONANP representatives in Bahía de los Ángeles, and local naval and maritime authorities.

For more information, visit https://bajasport.fishing or call +52 646 172 3080, extensions 3264 or 3318.

Whether you’re in it for the glory, the gear, or just the thrill of the catch—Bahía de los Ángeles is the place to be this weekend.

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Talking Taste and Tradition: The Brains Behind Cocina La Baja 2025 Sit Down with Gringo Gazette North
 Articles, Ensenada, Events, Food, Sabor Patrol

Baja’s Big Bite: Cocina La Baja 2025 Serves Up Flavor, Heart and a Little Bit of Sea Spray

Get ready to loosen your belts and sharpen your forks—Cocina La Baja 2025 is almost here, and it’s not just another food festival. It’s a full-on flavor storm with a side of community pride. Taking place July 12 at Estero Beach in Ensenada, this isn’t your average “eat, snap, repeat” event. It’s where the sea, land, and kitchen come together in one giant, delicious hug.

We got the inside scoop straight from the salty crew themselves—Chef Oliver Seki (a.k.a. Heart & Flavor Ambassador), Oceanographer Rogelio Cano Cetina (General Coordinator and Sea Whisperer), Chef Hugo Lara (Gastronomic Soul), and media mouthpiece Enrique Montiel, who invited us to dive in. Literally.

From left to right: Oceanographer Rogelio Cano Cetina (General Coordinator of Cocina La Baja), Chef Hugo Lara (Gastronomic Ambassador), Chef Oliver Seki (Heart & Flavor Ambassador), PhD. Luisa Rosas (Managing Editor and writer at Gringo Gazette North), and Oliver Quintero (Publisher, Gringo Gazette North).
Interview held at Seki Japanese Baja Cuisine.

It’s Not Just Food—It’s a Love Letter to Baja

What makes Cocina La Baja so special? Simple. It’s all about product, producers, chefs, and the people. You won’t find pretentious menus or imported fluff. Just fresh Baja seafood, local legends in the kitchen, and zero room for ego. Every bite tells the story of a fisherman, a family, a tide that turned.

This year’s star ingredients? Golden sea bream, oysters, abalone, sea urchin, and even edible algae. If it lives in the Pacific and pairs well with a Sauvignon Blanc (and it does), you’ll probably taste it.

45 Chefs. 45 Producers. One Giant Culinary Fiesta

That’s right—this year features 45 restaurant-producer dream teams. No one pays for a spot, but everyone earns it. Participants commit to fair trade, sustainability, and promoting Baja’s sea treasures.

There’s even a “People’s Choice” competition, so yes, your opinion—and appetite—matter.

Speaking of seafood drama, rumor has it the tuna gets a full ronqueo (butchering show) courtesy of Baja Aqua Farms, and sushi legend Cesar Martínez might be slicing up some nigiris. Add a virtual reality station, cornhole, DJ beats, and a performance by Ensenada’s own Rondalla, and you’ve got a perfect Saturday.

What About the Environment?

Glad you asked. Cocina La Baja isn’t just chewing—it’s thinking. Expect biodegradable materials, zero-waste commitments, and speakers from Pronatura Noroeste and COMEPESCA talking real sustainability. There’s even a marine workshop for university students with protein raffles, because yes, science can be tasty.

And because this is Baja, it’s pet-friendly. You can bring your dog, just don’t expect a seafood bowl or water dispensers.

More Than a Festival—It’s a Movement

Born in 2016 as a non-profit government project (originally called Baja Seafood Export), Cocina La Baja has grown from 200 attendees to an expected crowd of 3,000 this year. Tickets are limited to 1,500 but trust us, it’ll feel like the whole peninsula showed up.

This is the second year the event honors the late Minerva Pérez Castro, a fierce voice in the local fishing community. Her legacy lives on in the Premio Minerva, celebrating innovation and commitment to Baja’s maritime identity.

And yes—we’ll be there too, proudly counted in that 3,000-strong crowd. Find us near the oyster stand or the wine bar.

Don’t Miss It

So, if you’ve got 950 pesos, an empty stomach, and a love for food that tells a story—Cocina La Baja is where you need to be. No VIP lounges, no fluff. Just Baja being Baja.

We’ll see you at Estero Beach. Come hungry, leave a believer.

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