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UPCOMING
EVENTS
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Copyright © 1999-2008 EnsenadaGazette.com
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events and news
events

text by connie ellig

UPDATED MAY 7, 2008

january
february
march
april
may
june
july
august
september
october
november
december
Events are subject to change. All events listed are open to the public.
Unless otherwise noted, all phone numbers listed are in Mexico.
To call from the U.S. or Canada dial 011-52 + numbers listed. Within Mexico dial 01 + numbers listed.
2007 MAIN EVENTS
Ongoing Monthly Events
Every first & third Wednesday: Club Compañeros de Baja Norte meet at 10:30am on the clubhouse on Calle Mazatlán #256 in Fracc. Acapulco, one mile south of Ensenada. Luncheon follows ($4dlls. donation). Meet new friends and assist charities through this local service club. Info: Pauleen Blake, tel. (646)177-5116; e-mail

Every last Saturday: La Sociedad de Vecinos de Punta Banda meets at 10am at Campo La Jolla Salon in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Meet new friends and assist charities through this local service club. Info: Heather Hamilton, tel. (646)154-2452; e-mail

January 2008

Thru February 29: “Raíz (Root)” Art Exposition
Opened in December 2007, this exhibition features nearly a dozen abstract acrylic paintings by Ensenada artist Luis Gabriel Razo at the Museo Histórico Regional (former Ensenada jail) on Av. Gastelum between Av. Lopez Mateos & Virgilio Uribe, Ensenada. Museum gallery hours: 9am-5pm Tues.-Sun., closed Mon. Free admission. Info: Museo Histórico Regional de Ensenada, tel. (646)178-3692.
 
Thru March 31: Guided Whale Watching Tours
View the magnificent California gray whales near Ensenada’s Todos Santos Bay as they migrate toward their warm breeding grounds along the Baja peninsula’s central Pacific coast. Guided 4-hour tours are available from Sergio’s Sportfishing Center, tel/fax (646)178-2185; e-mail or Gordos Sportfishing, tel. (646)178-2377.
 
Thru March 31: Whale Watching Excursions in Guerrero Negro, Baja California Sur
Experience a close-up encounter with the California gray whales and their calves in their warm mating and breeding grounds of Scammon’s Lagoon (Laguna Ojo de Liebre). Located approximately 370 miles south of Ensenada, Guerrero Negro is the northern gateway to the state of Baja California Sur. For guided tour info & reservations, contact Malarrimo Eco-Tours, tel. (615)157-0100.
 
January 1: New Year’s Day
 
January 6: Día de los Santos Reyes (Three Kings Day in Mexico)
 
January 7, 14, 21 & 28: David Lynch Film Series
7pm: The Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of four films by Oscar-nominated American director David Lynch, known for his surreal movies that feature a singularly dark and disturbing view of reality. The free showings of “Wild at Heart” (1990) on January 7, “Blue Velvet” (1986) on January 14, “Mulholland Drive” (2001) on January 21, and “Inland Empire” (2006) on January 28 take place in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
January 11-February 15: “Con las sobras de mis sueños, me sobra para comer (With the Leftovers from My Dreams, I Have Enough Left Over to Eat)” Art Exposition
Miguel Ramón Tamayo of Mexicali presents his installation art and assemblages in the Galería de la Ciudad in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The January 11 artist reception at 7:30pm is open to the public. Gallery hours: 8am-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130 or CEARTE/Jaime Delfín, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308, ext. 113.
 
January 12 & 13: “A Majority of One,” a Play
The Rosarito Theatre Guild presents the love story of a Jewish widow and a wealthy Japanese widower who develop an attraction but must learn again the lessons of tolerance, kindness and forgiveness on Sat. at 7pm and Sun. at 2pm at Gertrude Pearlman Theatre at Campo La Jolla in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Ticket donation: $8dlls. ($7dlls. if purchased before Jan. 11). Info & tickets: Heather Hamilton, tel. (646)154-2452; e-mail
 
January 16: Historical Book Presentation
7:30pm: Historian Alejandro Espinoza Arroyo introduces his new book, “Linaje Espinoza en El Rosario, Baja California: Así sobrevivieron nuestros pioneros (The Espinoza Lineage of El Rosario: The Way of Survival of the Baja California Pioneers),” in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The book and presentation are in Spanish but the question-answer period is bilingual. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
January 21: Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday Observed (U.S.)
 
January 24-April 14: “Conversaciones (Conversations)” Photo Exposition
Mexico City/Ensenada photographers Natalia Delgado and Fabián Bautista exhibit their color and black & white digital works in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The January 24 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
January 24-May 15: “Abstracto 02 Colección ING (Abstract 02 ING Collection)” Art Exposition
A collective exhibition of more than three dozen paintings, lithographs and sculptures signed between 1961 and 1985 by more than two dozen of Mexico’s most distinguished artists in the Sala de Exposiciones of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The January 24 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
January 31-February 5: 90th Anniversary “La Fiesta de las Californias 1918-2008” Carnaval
One of the city's largest and most popular events, Ensenada’s Mardi Gras attracts a multitude of national and international visitors. In the evening, enjoy regional foods and libations, games and rides, live entertainment and dancing in the streets along Av. Ruiz. Don’t miss the lavish parades of colorful floats and costumed dancers on Sat., Sun. and Tues. at 2pm along Av. Ruiz and Blvd. Costero. Info at Spanish-language web site or contact the Special Events Committee at tels. (646)175-7740 or (646)178-3819; e-mail
See 2006 story & photos
See 2005 story & photos

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February 2008

Thru February 5: 90th Anniversary “La Fiesta de las Californias 1918-2008” Carnaval
One of the city's largest and most popular events, Ensenada’s Mardi Gras attracts a multitude of national and international visitors. In the evening, enjoy regional foods and libations, games and rides, live entertainment and dancing in the streets along Av. Ruiz. Don’t miss the lavish parades of colorful floats and costumed dancers on Sat., Sun. and Tues. at 2pm along Av. Ruiz and Blvd. Costero. Info at Spanish-language web site or contact the Special Events Committee at tels. (646)175-7740 or (646)178-3819; e-mail
See 2006 story & photos
See 2005 story & photos

Thru February 15: “Con las sobras de mis sueños, me sobra para comer (With the Leftovers from My Dreams, I Have Enough Left Over to Eat)” Art Exposition
Miguel Ramón Tamayo of Mexicali presents his installation art and assemblages in the Galería de la Ciudad in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The January 11 artist reception at 7:30pm is open to the public. Gallery hours: 8am-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130 or CEARTE/Jaime Delfín, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308, ext. 113.
 
Thru February 29: “Raíz (Root)” Art Exposition
Opened in December 2007, this exhibition features nearly a dozen abstract acrylic paintings by Ensenada artist Luis Gabriel Razo at the Museo Histórico Regional (former Ensenada jail) on Av. Gastelum between Av. Lopez Mateos & Virgilio Uribe, Ensenada. Museum gallery hours: 9am-5pm Tues.-Sun., closed Mon. Free admission. Info: Museo Histórico Regional de Ensenada, tel. (646)178-3692.

Thru March 31: Guided Whale Watching Tours
View the magnificent California gray whales near Ensenada’s Todos Santos Bay as they migrate toward their warm breeding grounds along the Baja peninsula’s central Pacific coast. Guided 4-hour tours are available from Sergio’s Sportfishing Center, tel/fax (646)178-2185; e-mail or Gordos Sportfishing, tel. (646)178-2377.

Thru March 31: Whale Watching Excursions in Guerrero Negro, Baja California Sur
Experience a close-up encounter with the California gray whales and their calves in their warm mating and breeding grounds of Scammon’s Lagoon (Laguna Ojo de Liebre). Located approximately 370 miles south of Ensenada, Guerrero Negro is the northern gateway to the state of Baja California Sur. For guided tour info & reservations, contact Malarrimo Eco-Tours, tel. (615)157-0100.

Thru April 14: “Conversaciones (Conversations)” Photo Exposition
Mexico City/Ensenada photographers Natalia Delgado and Fabián Bautista exhibit their color and black & white digital works in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The January 24 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

Thru May 15: “Abstracto 02 Colección ING (Abstract 02 ING Collection)” Art Exposition
A collective exhibition of more than three dozen paintings, lithographs and sculptures signed between 1961 and 1985 by more than two dozen of Mexico’s most distinguished artists in the Sala de Exposiciones of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The January 24 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

February 2: Groundhog Day

February 3: Super Bowl Sunday

February 4: Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day in Mexico) Observed

February 4, 11, 18 & 25: Herzog vs. Kinski German Film Series
7pm: The Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of four films starring Klaus Kinski that were directed by Werner Herzog. The free showings of “Aguirre, the Wrath of God” (1973) on February 4, “Woyzeck” (1979) on February 11, “Fitzcarraldo” (1982) on February 18, and “Cobra Verde” (1987) on February 25 take place in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Films are in German with subtitles most likely in English. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
February 5: Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day in Mexico)
 
February 6: Ash Wednesday

February 7: Chinese New Year

February 14: Valentine’s Day

February 18: Presidents’ Day (U.S.)

February 20-March 20: Kaleidoscopic Photography Exposition
The Institute of Astronomy of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) presents a series of 14 photos, “Una mirada caleidoscópica a la instrumentación astronómica (A Kaleidoscopic Look at Astronomic Instrumentation),” in the lobby of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The February 20 inauguration at 7:30pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
February 24: Día de la Bandera (Flag Day in Mexico)
 
February 27: “The Young Scene” Concert Series
7:30pm: Students of classical and electric guitar from the Academy of Pro Música Ensenada, A.C. perform in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
February 29: Leap Day

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March 2008

Thru March 20: Kaleidoscopic Photography Exposition
The Institute of Astronomy of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) presents a series of 14 photos, “Una mirada caleidoscópica a la instrumentación astronómica (A Kaleidoscopic Look at Astronomic Instrumentation),” in the lobby of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The February 20 inauguration at 7:30pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

Thru March 31: Guided Whale Watching Tours
View the magnificent California gray whales near Ensenada’s Todos Santos Bay as they migrate toward their warm breeding grounds along the Baja peninsula’s central Pacific coast. Guided 4-hour tours are available from Sergio’s Sportfishing Center, tel/fax (646)178-2185; e-mail or Gordos Sportfishing, tel. (646)178-2377.

Thru March 31: Whale Watching Excursions in Guerrero Negro, Baja California Sur
Experience a close-up encounter with the California gray whales and their calves in their warm mating and breeding grounds of Scammon’s Lagoon (Laguna Ojo de Liebre). Located approximately 370 miles south of Ensenada, Guerrero Negro is the northern gateway to the state of Baja California Sur. For guided tour info & reservations, contact Malarrimo Eco-Tours, tel. (615)157-0100.

Thru April 14: “Conversaciones (Conversations)” Photo Exposition
Mexico City/Ensenada photographers Natalia Delgado and Fabián Bautista exhibit their color and black & white digital works in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The January 24 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

Thru May 15: “Abstracto 02 Colección ING (Abstract 02 ING Collection)” Art Exposition
A collective exhibition of more than three dozen paintings, lithographs and sculptures signed between 1961 and 1985 by more than two dozen of Mexico’s most distinguished artists in the Sala de Exposiciones of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The January 24 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308. 

March 1: 3rd Annual Mexico Tourism, Travel & Real Estate Expo in San Diego
10:30am-5pm: Mexico Alive & AeroMexico present an informative expo featuring more than 60 Mexico-related real estate, travel, tourism, resort, golf and media exhibitors, plus seminars and door prizes, at the San Diego Events Center/Scottish Rite Center, 1895 Camino Del Rio South, San Diego, CA. Admission: $3dlls. (see web site for 2 x1 admission). For more info including exhibit and sponsorship availability, contact Ted Donovan at U.S. tel. (619)985-4950; e-mail

March 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31: The Coen Brothers American Film Series
7pm: The Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of five films directed and produced by the Academy Award winning duo of Joel and Ethan Coen. The free showings of “Blood Simple” (1983) on March 3, “Raising Arizona” (1987) on March 10, “Miller’s Crossing” (1990) on March 17, “Barton Fink” (1991) on March 24 and “The Big Lebowski” (1998) on March 31 take place in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Films are in English with Spanish subtitles. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
March 6: “Tribute to Bob Marley and Carlos Santana” Concert
7:30pm: Ensenada’s Grupo Wandana performs covers made famous by these great reggae and Latin musicians at Teatro Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $8dlls.; students $5dlls. Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail

March 8-April 10: “Tormenta Silenciosa (Silent Storm)” Painting Exposition
A retrospective of more than 50 contemporary and abstract oil paintings by acclaimed artist/poet Eduardo Tello at the Galería de Arte “Jardín Visual” of Radio Bahía, Av. Ruiz #10, Ensenada. The March 8 inauguration at 6pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-5pm Mon.-Fri., 8am-2pm Sat. Free admission. Info: Eduardo Tello, U.S. tel. (714)434-7336; e-mail

March 9: Daylight Saving Time Begins (U.S.)

March 10-April 11: “Origenes (Origins)” Painting Exposition
Renowned Ensenada artist Armando Franco displays his works in the library of Xochicalco University, Calle San Francisco #1139, Fracc. La Misión, Ensenada. The March 10 inauguration at 5pm is open to the public. Free admission. Info: Universidad Xochicalco, tel. (646)174-3980.
 
March 14-16: 22nd Annual Tecate SCORE San Felipe 250
More than 250 cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATVs will attempt to complete the challenging 232-mile desert course within the official 10-hour time limit. On Friday, the SCORE Midway and tech inspection is from 10am-6pm on San Felipe’s waterfront malecón. On Saturday, the race start is 6am for motorcycles and ATVs, followed by trucks and cars at approximately 9:30am. The start line is at the landmark San Felipe arches on Highway 5 on the outskirts of town; the finish line is just south of the arches, directly behind the Tecate building. Awards are Sunday at 10am in front of The Beachcomber on the malecón. Info: SCORE International, U.S. tel. 818-225-8402.

March 15: Club Compañeros de Baja Norte St. Patrick’s Day Lunch

1-4pm: Enjoy Irish singing and dancing plus a traditional meal of corned beef and cabbage with salad and dessert at the Compañeros Clubhouse, Calle Mazatlán #256, Fracc. Acapulco, 1 mile south of Ensenada. Open to the public. Donation: $7dlls. Info: Carol Coons, tel. (646)174-5164; e-mail

March 15-April 6: 9th Annual Bahía de los Angeles Art & Craft Show and Sale
11am-5pm: A talented group of local artists exhibits their oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings, gourd creations, crafted wooden objects, jewelry and fabric items upstairs at the Isla Market (just north of Villa Vitta RV Park) in Bahía de los Angeles on the Sea of Cortez. The opening reception on March 15 at 11am is open to the public. Free admission. Info: Mary Bandy, e-mail

March 17: Benito Juárez’ Birthday Observed (Mexico)
 
March 17: St. Patrick’s Day

March 19: Club Compañeros de Baja Norte General Meeting and “Sharp Medical Visit”
10:30am: Open to the public, Sharp HealthCare under the direction of Minerva Santos will discuss arthritis, offer free blood pressure checks, and answer health-related questions at the Compañeros Clubhouse, Calle Mazatlán #256, Fracc. Acapulco, 1 mile south of Ensenada. Lunch ($4dlls. donation) follows. Meet new friends and assist charities through this local service club. Info: Tillie Foster, tel. (646)176-1901, ext. 169; e-mail

 
March 21: Benito Juárez’ Birthday (Mexico)

March 22 & 23 and March 29 & 30: “Citizen Mendez (Aboard the American Freedom Train)” a Play
Set on the California/Mexico border, Jack Shea’s compelling play interweaves the tales of two illegal Mexican immigrants, two American border crossing agents, and an American yuppie couple whose lives converge on one devastating night. Directed by Irka Davis, this political drama explores the concept and consequences of borders and offers a thought-provoking commentary on life’s struggles and the American Dream. Performances are on Sat. at 7pm and Sun. at 2pm at Gertrude Pearlman Theatre at Campo La Jolla in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Ticket donation: $8dlls. ($7dlls. if purchased before March 21). Info & tickets: Heather Hamilton, tel. (646)154-2452; e-mail

March 22-29: Baja Travesia 2008
Teams from around the world compete in an adventure racing event that starts in San Felipe and ends in Ensenada, and includes disciplines like paddle boarding, ocean kayaking, trekking/canyoneering, mountain biking and a desert auto rally.

March 23: Easter Sunday

March 23: Club Compañeros de Baja Norte Easter Brunch
9-11:30am: Enjoy a special brunch of Eggs Benedict ($4dlls. donation) and an Easter Hat Contest & Parade at the clubhouse on Calle Mazatlán #256 in Fracc. Acapulco, one mile south of Ensenada. Open to the public. Meet new friends and assist charities through this local service club. Info: Pauleen Blake, tel. (646)177-5116; e-mail
 
March 26: “The Young Scene” Concert Series
7:30pm: Accompanied by Ella Korobtchenko on piano, music students specializing in “Bel Canto” from the UABC School of Arts perform songs by Spanish composers in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
March 28-30: El Alamo 200 Off-Road Race
Motorcycles, ATVs and four-wheel vehicles from both sides of the border compete in a challenging four-lap race on a 50-mile circuit course at El Alamo, 50 miles southeast of Ensenada. Info: RECORD Off-Road Series/Ramón Castro, tel. (646)176-1637.

March 29: 19th or 20th Annual Los Gordos Crazy Hat Party
5-11pm: Bring your wildest hat and participate in pre-April Fool’s Day festivities, music and dancing at Restaurant/Bar Los Gordos at Rancho La Bufadora in Punta Banda, 21 miles south of Ensenada. Info: Pam Connor; e-mail

March 31: César Chávez Birthday (California State Holiday)

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April 2008

Thru April 6: 9th Annual Bahía de los Angeles Art & Craft Show and Sale
11am-5pm: A talented group of local artists exhibits their oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings, gourd creations, crafted wooden objects, jewelry and fabric items upstairs at the Isla Market (just north of Villa Vitta RV Park) in Bahía de los Angeles on the Sea of Cortez. The opening reception on March 15 at 11am is open to the public. Free admission. Info: Mary Bandy, e-mail

Thru April 10: “Tormenta Silenciosa (Silent Storm)” Painting Exposition
A retrospective of more than 50 contemporary and abstract oil paintings by acclaimed artist/poet Eduardo Tello at the Galería de Arte “Jardín Visual” of Radio Bahía, Av. Ruiz #10, Ensenada. The March 8 inauguration at 6pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-5pm Mon.-Fri., 8am-2pm Sat. Free admission. Info: Eduardo Tello, U.S. tel. (714)434-7336; e-mail

Thru April 11: “Origenes (Origins)” Painting Exposition
Renowned Ensenada artist Armando Franco displays his works in the library of Xochicalco University, Calle San Francisco #1139, Fracc. La Misión, Ensenada. The March 10 inauguration at 5pm is open to the public. Free admission. Info: Universidad Xochicalco, tel. (646)174-3980.

Thru April 14: “Conversaciones (Conversations)” Photo Exposition

Mexico City/Ensenada photographers Natalia Delgado and Fabián Bautista exhibit their color and black & white digital works in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The January 24 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
Thru May 15: “Abstracto 02 Colección ING (Abstract 02 ING Collection)” Art Exposition
A collective exhibition of more than three dozen paintings, lithographs and sculptures signed between 1961 and 1985 by more than two dozen of Mexico’s most distinguished artists in the Sala de Exposiciones of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The January 24 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
April 1: April Fool’s Day

April 5: Nomads4Niños Charity Golf Tournament & Fiesta
A charity event with a scramble format and prizes for golfers plus cooking contests and other activities for food and fun lovers at Baja Country Club, located approximately 8 miles south of Ensenada. Limited to 48 players, the tournament fee ($55dlls.) includes golf with tee-off from 9-11am, cart, range balls, prizes and fiesta. “Fiesta Only” donation ($10dlls. before April 1, $12dlls. after) includes mariachi music, catered food and beverages from 1-6pm. Proceeds benefit Agua Viva Guarderia Day Care Center in Maneadero. Advance registration is required through Doc Dougherty, U.S. tel. 619-618-0508; e-mail 

April 6: Daylight Saving Time Begins (Mexico)

April 7, 14, 21, 28: Film Series “Jan Svankmajer and the Quay Brothers, Masters of Surrealistic Animation”
7pm: The Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of avant-garde films by eminent European animators/directors. The free showings of Svankmajer’s “Alice” (1989) on April 7, “The Collected Shorts of Jan Svankmajer” (1965-1992) on April 14, the Quay’s “The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes” (2005) on April 21 and “The Brothers Quay Collection” (1984-1993) on April 28 take place in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Film dialogue is in English. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

April 10: Concert of Classical Music
7:30pm: Directed by Ernesto Rosas, the CEM Orchestra performs Tchaikovsky’s Manfred Symphony and Fantasy Overture Romeo and Juliet, and soloists Olena Galytska and Santos Cota perform Bach’s Concert for Two Pianos in Do Major at Teatro Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $8dlls. (Additional concerts are on April 7 in Mexicali, April 8 in Tijuana and April 9 in Tecate.) Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail

April 11: “The Young Scene” Concert Series
7:30pm: Music students from the UABC School of Arts perform a contemporary music at Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
April 11-June 2: “Mi Trabajo es el Mar (My Work is the Sea)” Photo Exposition
UAM social anthropology student Dzilam Méndez displays his color digital photos that focus on the lives of tuna fishermen in the lobby of Teatro de la Cuidad on Av. Diamante, Ensenada. The April 11 artist reception at 7pm is open to the public. Lobby hours: 8am-3pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.

April 12: Seminars of 9th Annual Festival of New Wine & Mollusks
Visit the mollusk cultivation areas from 7:30-10:30am and attend aquaculture seminars from 11am-2:30pm. For prices and more  information contact the Baja California Winemakers Association, tel. (646)178-3038; e-mail

April 13: 9th Annual Festival of New Wine & Mollusks
Noon-5pm: Don’t miss this unique opportunity to taste newly made Baja California wines while savoring oyster, clam and mussel dishes prepared by seafood producers and local restaurants at Ensenada’s Cruiseport on the bay. For tickets ($20dlls.) and more information contact the Baja California Winemakers Association, tel. (646)178-3038; e-mail

April 16: Francisco Bribiesca in Concert
7:30pm: As part of his “Nadie Esta Solo 2008” world tour, this celebrated classical guitarist performs at Teatro Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $8dlls., students $5dlls. Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail
 
April 17-30: “Perdida de una Identidad Social y sus Consecuencias (Loss of a Social Identity and its Consequences)” Collective Photo Exposition
Former students from the UABC School of Photography exhibit their color and black & white digital photography in the hallways of the Casa de la Cultura in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The April 17 artist reception at 7pm is open to the public. Hours: 8am-6pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.
 
April 19: Passover Begins at Sundown
 
April 19: 29th Spring Rosarito-Ensenada Fun Bicycle Ride
10am: Over 7,500 cyclists participate in this scenic 50-mile ride along the Free Road that starts in downtown Rosarito Beach and finishes in Ensenada with a fiesta from noon-sunset at Plaza Ventana al Mar on the waterfront at the giant flagpole. Register online or call Bicycling West, U.S. tel. 858-483-8777 for recorded message. In Ensenada contact Andres Muñoz, tel. (646)174-0033.

April 19 & 20: Sierra Blanca Mountain Hike
A 4-hour guided hiking tour from the Kumiai village of San Antonio Necua to the Sierra Blanca, the highest peak in Valle de Guadalupe. The hike begins on Saturday at 7am, includes overnight camping with bonfires and Kumiai storytelling at the San Antonio Viejo base camp, and returns Sunday morning. Bring your own camping equipment, food and beverages. Cost is $20dlls. per person. Info: ADESU Alliance for Sustainable Development/Horacio González, tel. (646)178-8780; e-mail
 
April 20: San Antonio Necua Artisans & Farmers Market
10am-5pm: The Kumiai community of San Antonio Necua presents an exhibition and sale of traditional Kumiai, Pai-Pai, Cucapah and Kiliwa native arts as well as local agricultural products (cheese, honey, eggs, bread, fruits) and traditional foods like shawii, pinole and ground wheat tortillas. Enjoy guided walking tours and a cultural program with birdsingers and traditional dances. Free admission. The community is located in Valle de Guadalupe off Ensenada-Tecate Highway 3 (take dirt road opposite Domecq Winery and continue approximately 2 miles, passing L.A. Cetto Winery and following signs to Necua). Info: ADESU Alliance for Sustainable Development/Horacio González, tel. (646)178-8780; e-mail
 
April 22: Earth Day

April 23-June 25: “Autorretrato (Self-Portrait)” Painting Exposition
More than two dozen Ensenada artists reveal their inner selves in large format paintings in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The April 23 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
April 24: Inauguration of the Second Phase of Ensenada’s State Center of the Arts
Noon: Official grand opening ceremony of the Plaza de las Artes and Foro Experimental of the Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

April 24-May 21: “Gráfica Baja Californiana (Baja California Graphics)” Art Exposition
A collective exhibition of 32 engravings by Baja California artists in the Galería de la Ciudad in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The April 24 artist reception at 7pm is open to the public. Gallery hours: 8am-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.

April 25: “Live Rock” Concert
7:30pm: Local bands perform alternative rock at the Foro Experimental of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

April 25-27: 61st Newport to Ensenada Yacht Race
The world’s largest international yacht race begins at noon on Friday in Newport Beach, California and concludes with an award ceremony on Sunday afternoon at the Hotel Bahía in Ensenada. This 125-nautical-mile race attracts approximately 450 sailboats in nearly two dozen classes. Info: Newport Ocean Sailing Association (NOSA), U.S. tel. (949)644-1023.
See 2006 review & photos

April 25-27: Gran Feria del Nopal in San Vicente
The three-day festival dedicated to this edible cactus includes seminars, nopal samples from 30-40 regional growers, a gastronomic fair and culinary contest of different dishes prepared with nopales, cultural entertainment, and the presentation of candidates for San Vicente Fiesta Queen. Festivities take place in front of the Delegation Office in the Plaza del Pueblo, located on the Transpeninsular Highway approximately 50 miles south of Ensenada. Info: Delegación de San Vicente, tel. (646)165-6635.

April 26: “Historias en V Planivuelvo” Children’s Theater
5pm: Triciclo Rojo, a Mexico City theater company, performs this entertaining pantomime in the Foro Experimental of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Admission: $5dlls. adults, $2.50dlls. children. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
April 27: “Celebrating the Children” Concert
Noon: Directed by Pavlo Getman, the Youth Symphonic Orchestra of Tijuana performs at Teatro Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $8dlls., students $4dlls. Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail

April 27: “Tu Hombro” Contemporary Dance Presentation
8pm: The well-known Compañia Antares from Hermosillo, Sonora, performs in the Foro Experimental of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. General admission $10dlls., students $5dlls. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

April 28: Museo Histórico Regional Monthly Conference
8pm: Débora Flores, Director of the Community Museum in San Vicente Ferrer, is the guest speaker at the Museo Histórico Regional (former Ensenada jail) on Av. Gastelum between Av. Lopez Mateos & Virgilio Uribe, Ensenada. Free admission. Info: Museo Histórico Regional de Ensenada, tel. (646)178-3692.

April 30: Día del Niño (Children’s Day in Mexico)
 
April 30: “An Adventure of Fiesta, Art & Fun” Children’s Day Celebration
4-7pm: Creative workshops, interactive exhibitions, games, and presentations of music and dance at the Plaza de las Artes and Foro Experimental of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

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May 2008

Thru May 15: “Abstracto 02 Colección ING (Abstract 02 ING Collection)” Art Exposition
A collective exhibition of more than three dozen paintings, lithographs and sculptures signed between 1961 and 1985 by more than two dozen of Mexico’s most distinguished artists in the Sala de Exposiciones of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The January 24 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-7pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

Thru May 21: “Gráfica Baja Californiana (Baja California Graphics)” Art Exposition
A collective exhibition of 32 engravings by Baja California artists in the Galería de la Ciudad in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The April 24 artist reception at 7pm is open to the public. Gallery hours: 8am-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.
 
Thru June 2: “Mi Trabajo es el Mar (My Work is the Sea)” Photo Exposition
UAM social anthropology student Dzilam Méndez displays his color digital photos that focus on the lives of tuna fishermen in the lobby of Teatro de la Cuidad on Av. Diamante, Ensenada. The April 11 artist reception at 7pm is open to the public. Lobby hours: 8am-3pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.
 
Thru June 25: “Autorretrato (Self-Portrait)” Painting Exposition
More than two dozen Ensenada artists reveal their inner selves in large format paintings in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The April 23 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-7pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
May 1: Día del Trabajo (Labor Day in Mexico)

May 2: Minaudieres Reception
6-9pm: Open to the public, the evening reception marks the debut of designer Barbara Johnson’s Tjentland brand minaudieres (small, hard-case evening bags), which are studded with Swarovski crystals and semi-precious gemstones and lined with Colorado deerskin suede. Wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served at Barbara’s home in Punta Banda. For directions and reservations contact Barbara Johnson, tel. (646)154-2011; e-mail 

May 3: 134th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs

May 3: Feria Artesanal Arts & Crafts Fair
10am-6pm: A unique opportunity to meet and interact with more than 50 internationally known artists and artisans who will be demonstrating and selling their works directly to the public at Centro Artesanal on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Castillo, Ensenada. Participants include local fine artists and sculptors, native Pai-Pai potters and Kumiai basket weavers, and dealers of quality Mexican folk art and Mata Ortiz pottery. Also enjoy tequila tastings, traditional Mexican foods and beverages, and an artistic program of cultural music and dance. Free admission. For more information or to participate as a vendor, contact Adalberto Pérez Meillón, tel. (646)175-7848; e-mail 
 
May 3: 6th Annual Baja Book Signing & Wine Tasting
11am-5pm: Meet more than a dozen famous Baja authors and storytellers, sample fine Baja California wines (from 1pm), and enjoy a performance of the Salzambra Flamenco Dancers (at 2pm)  at Pyramid Resort in Plaza del Mar, Km. 57 on Rosarito-Ensenada Free Road. Books and wine available for purchase. For information, hotel reservations, or to participate in the event as a Baja book author, contact Keri McCarty, tel. (646)155-0265; e-mail 

May 3 & 4: Cabalgata Vaquera El Alamar
A 4-5 hour guided horseback riding adventure in the Sierra de Juarez. Registration fee includes meals and overnight camping (bring your own tent and equipment) at Rancho El Alamar. Horse rental available or bring your own. Registration & info: Alfredo Vizcarra, cell tel. (646)179-5074 or Tijuana tel. (664)902-3681; e-mail
 
May 3, 17 & 31: Traditional Mexican Folkloric Dance Show
4pm: Attired in colorful handmade costumes, the ensemble Xochiquetzal ISSSTE Cultura performs time-honored regional dances of Jalisco, Veracruz, Sinaloa and other regions of Mexico every other Saturday at La Casa Vieja Wine Bar & Art Gallery, located between Casa de Piedra winery and Restaurant Mustafa in San Antonio de las Minas at Km. 93.5 Carr. Tecate-Ensenada (“Ruta del Vino”). Free admission, ample parking. Info: Colleen & Humberto Toscano, tel. (646)155-3153.

May 4, 11, 18 & 25: CEARTE Tianguis Cultural
12:30-7pm: Artists and artisans offer their wares on Sundays at this cultural marketplace held on the Plaza de la Estrella of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
May 5: Cinco de Mayo (Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla)
 
May 5, 12, 19 & 26: Film Series “Alfred Hitchcock, the Master of Suspense”
7pm: The Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of psychological thrillers directed by one of the most popular and celebrated filmmakers of all time. The free showings of “Rear Window” (1954) on May 5, “North by Northwest” (1959) on May 12, “Psycho” (1960) on May 19 and “The Birds” (1963) on May 26 take place in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Films are in English with Spanish subtitles. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

May 8: Concert of Mexican Music
7:30pm: The AUCA String Quartet, composed of students from the UABC School of Arts, performs music by contemporary Mexican composers in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
May 9: “DNA,” a Movie Presentation
4pm: A showing of a new sci-fi film by Punta Banda resident Carlos Victorica at Gertrude Pearlman Theatre at Campo La Jolla in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Ticket donation is $5dlls. If you could choose your DNA, what kind of DNA would you like to have??? Info & tickets: Heather Hamilton, tel. (646)154-2452; e-mail

May 9: Ensenada Jazz 25th Anniversary Tour ‘08
7:30pm: The incomparable Ensenada Jazz celebrates 25 years of performing jazz in Baja California with a concert at Teatro Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $8dlls., students $5dlls. (Additional concerts are on April 26 in Tecate, May 2 in Tijuana and May 13 in Mexicali.) Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail
 
May 10: Día de las Madres (Mother’s Day in Mexico)

May 10: Amanda Miguel in Concert
As part of their “La Pareja Más Romántica de America” tour, the world-famous Argentine-born Mexican pop singer and her husband, Diego Verdaguer, perform at the Casa de los Siete Patios, located 8 miles north of Ensenada near Playas de San Miguel. Tickets are $50, $60 & $80dlls.; proceeds benefit Club Rotario Ensenada Calafia. Wine, mixed drinks and El Rey Sol canapés will be sold at event. Doors open at 8pm; the outdoor concert begins at 10pm. Seating is limited. Advance tickets are recommended and are available at Restaurant El Rey Sol, tel. (646)178-1733.
 
May 10, 17, 24 & 31: Bazar Centro Artesanal
10am-6pm: A colorful outdoor bazaar featuring local artists and their original works, native Pai-Pai potters and Kumiai basket weavers, and a variety of vendors offering quality Mexican crafts, collectibles, antiques, books, regional foods, beverages and produce every Saturday at Centro Artesanal on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Castillo, Ensenada. Free admission. For more information or to participate as a vendor, contact Centro Artesanal administrator Adalberto Pérez Meillón, tel. (646)175-7848; e-mail 

May 11: Mother’s Day (U.S.)

May 11: 7th Annual International Half Marathon
8am: Men and women are invited to compete for medals and cash prizes in this 21 km. foot race that starts and finishes at Sullivan Sports Field, Av. Diamante, Ensenada. Open to anyone age 16 or older; no entry fee. Info: Municipal Sports Institute (INMUDERE)/Felipe Borrego Escobedo, tel. (646)176-4445 or (646)177-0744.
 
May 11: Fiesta of the Flowering Vineyards DATE CHANGED TO JUNE 8!
Noon-5pm: Held at a different winery each year, this event is an excellent opportunity to sample wines from many different wineries and enjoy regional foods and music in a family atmosphere. Info: Baja California Winemakers Association, tel. (646)178-3038; e-mail 

May 11: Club Compañeros de Baja Norte Mother’s Day Celebration
1-4pm: Open to the public, the special luncheon features Cornish game hen, vegetables, salad, dessert, and for mothers, a corsage and champagne. Join the festivities at the Compañeros Clubhouse, Calle Mazatlán #256, Fracc. Acapulco, 1 mile south of Ensenada. Donation is $7dlls.; proceeds benefit club charities. Reservations are recommended. Info: Jim O’Brien, tel. (646)154-2018; e-mail 
 
May 17: 133rd Preakness Stakes at Pimlico

May 17: Homage to Ensenada
5pm: In honor of Ensenada’s 126th Anniversary, local composers and writers present their Ensenada-themed music and poetry in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

May 17 & 18: La Sociedad de Vecinos de Punta Banda White Elephant Sale
9am-3pm: Browse for bargains like small appliances, kitchenware, linens, furniture, etc. at Campo La Jolla Salon in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Proceeds benefit the Punta Banda Scholarship Fund. Donations welcomed. Info: Kathy Hibbard, tel. (646)154-2833; e-mail

May 17 & 18: Baja Series Motocross 2008
Round One of this exciting motorsport series takes place at the newly renovated Rancho Motocross track located 10 minutes from downtown Ensenada at Km. 8.5 on Carr. Ensenada-Ojos Negros (Highway 3). On Saturday, practice is from 10am-3pm. On Sunday, practice is 8-9am with races from 10:30am-3pm. General admission is $5dlls., VIP admission is $7dlls. Info: Baja Series Motocross, cell tel. (646)947-5330.

May 17 & 18: Spring Men's Doubles Tennis Tournament
10am: Open to men age 21 or older at Club Deportivo Puerto Salina, Carr. Tijuana-Ensenada Km. 73, approximately 23 miles north of Ensenada. Registration ($50dlls. per pair) includes t-shirt, raffles and post-tournament party. Spectators are welcome, free admission. Info & registration: Club Deportivo Puerto Salina, tel. (646)155-4110 or (646)155-4109; e-mail 
 
May 18: Club Compañeros de Baja Norte Brunch
9-11:30am: Sunday brunch at the clubhouse on Calle Mazatlán #256 in Fracc. Acapulco, one mile south of Ensenada. Open to the public; $4dlls. donation. Meet new friends and assist charities through this local service club. Info: Pauleen Blake, tel. (646)177-5116; e-mail

May 18, 19, 21, 22, 23 & 25: 12th Annual University Festival of Theater
8pm: A series of six Spanish-language plays performed by theater groups from Mexico City, Veracruz and Sinaloa at either the Foro Experimental of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario or the Teatro Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4 in Ensenada. General admission is $10dlls., students $5dlls. Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail, or CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

May 22: “A Night of Chamber Music” Concert POSTPONED!
7:30pm: Violinist David Varela and pianist Evgeny Korolkov perform in the Pro Música Ensenada, A.C. Sala de Events, Av. Obregon #1025 between Calles 10 & 11, Ensenada. Donation: $10dlls. Info & tickets: Margit Gantt, tel. (646)174-7969; e-mail

May 24: The Orquesta de Baja California in Concert
7:30pm: Directed by Iván del Prado, the Orchestra of Baja California and invited horn soloist Jon Gustely perform “Música Acuática (Water Music)” at the Foro Experimental of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. General admission is $5 dlls. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.
 
May 24 & 25: 15th Annual Guillermo's Yellowtail Sportfishing Tournament in Bahía de los Angeles
Anglers compete for trophies and cash prizes while trying to hook up with the largest yellowtail in the Sea of Cortez. Registration fee. Bring your own boat or arrange a panga rental in town. Info: Restaurant Guillermo’s/Guillermo Galván in L.A. Bay, satellite tel. (200)124-9104.

May 24 & 25: Club Compañeros de Baja Norte Rummage Sale
10am-2pm: Search for treasures and bargains at the clubhouse on Calle Mazatlán #256 in Fracc. Acapulco, one mile south of Ensenada. Proceeds benefit club charities. Donations of gently used clothing, furniture, appliances, etc. are welcomed. Info: Edie Crocker, tel. (646)154-2547; e-mail

May 24 & 25: 29th Annual La Misión Fiesta
A family style country festival with parades, rodeo contests, cultural exhibitions, regional foods, live entertainment and a Saturday night Cowboy Camp & Bonfire. It is held at the site of San Miguel Arcangel de la Frontera Mission at Km. 65.5 on the Tijuana-Ensenada Free Road (from Toll Road, take La Fonda exit). The fiesta kicks off on Saturday with sports contests at 8am, rodeo contests at 3pm, folkloric dancing at 4pm, the 11th Annual State Calabaceado Dance Festival at 4:30pm, and a bonfire and dance at 8pm. Sunday festivities begin with Catholic mass at 9am, followed by a civic parade at 10am, inauguration ceremonies at noon, folkloric dance groups from 12:30-5pm, a cabalgata (procession of costumed horseback riders) at 2pm, rodeo at 3:15pm, and a special performance of “Nativo,” a music and dance production based on the history of Baja California, from 5-6pm. The fiesta concludes with live music for dancing from 8pm-midnight. Free admission. Info: UABC School of Tourism in Tijuana/Prof. Mario Reyes, tel/fax (664)682-1697; e-mail
See 2006 story & photos

May 25: 6th Annual Festival del Caballo, Arte y Vino
10am-6pm: Equestrian and charrería exhibitions, Andalusian dancing horses, folkloric & flamenco dancers, music, arts & crafts, wine tasting and regional foods. Festivities take place at Adobe Guadalupe Vineyards & Inn in Valle de Guadalupe. Admission: $25dlls. at the door, $20dlls. in advance. Children under 12 free. Proceeds benefit Club Tiburones, A.C. Info at tel. (646)120-5878 or cell (646)947-7146.

May 25: Ensenada 126th Anniversary “Ensenada de Todos, Suma de Culturas” International Festival
10am-8pm: A multicultural celebration at Plaza Ventana al Mar on the waterfront near the giant flag pole on Blvd. Costero, Ensenada. Enjoy music, dance, arts, foods and exhibits by nearly four fozen local community groups of various nationalities, historical and cultural societies, museums and the city’s founding families. Free admission. Info: Yukio Nishikawa, tel. (646)176-2763; e-mail

May 26: Memorial Day Observed (U.S.)

May 28: La Sociedad de Vecinos de Punta Banda Steak Night
Join La Sociedad for a dinner of chicken or filet mignon, baked potato, salad and dessert at Campo La Jolla Salon in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Doors open at 4:30pm, dinner served at 5:30pm. Member donation is $6-8dlls., non-member $8-10dlls. Proceeds benefit club charities. Info: Kathleen Taormina, tel. (646)152-0090; e-mail

May 28: “The Young Scene” Concert Series
7:30pm: Under the direction of Maestro Luis Salazar, the Pre-Orquesta del Centro de Estudios Musicales (CEM) of the UABC School of Arts performs Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 at the Foro Experimental of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308 or Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail
 
May 29: 10th Annual Baja 500 Autograph Signing Fiesta
1-11pm: Meet and get autographs from more than 65 racing teams from Mexico, the United States and other countries at this family-oriented event featuring Trophy-Truck, motorcycle and race car exhibitions, off-road products and souvenirs, music, food and giant screen video presentations at Plaza Ventana al Mar (near the gigantic flag pole) on Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas), Ensenada. Free admission. Info: Gabriel García at El Vigía, tel. (646)120-5555, ext. 255; e-mail
 
May 29: An Encounter with Folkloric Dances Ensenada 2008
7:30pm: Grupo Tepochcalli and Grupo Folklórico Ixtepecano perform colorful Mexican folkloric dances at Teatro de la Cuidad on Av. Diamante, Ensenada. Admission: $5dlls. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.

May 29-June 1: 40th Tecate SCORE Baja 500
The legendary desert race in which more than 300 cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATVs from the United States, Mexico, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan traverse nearly 500 miles of rugged mountain, forest and desert terrain in their attempts to “beat the Baja.” This year’s race starts and finishes in front of Ensenada’s historic Riviera Cultural Center on Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas). On Thursday, May 29, there is the Autograph Signing Fiesta from 1-11pm and racer/media registration from 2-6pm. On Friday, May 30, the pre-race SCORE Manufacturer’s Midway and tech inspection takes place on the boulevard across from the Riviera from 10am-6pm. On Saturday, May 31, motorcycles and ATVs start at 6am, followed by trucks and cars at approximately 10am. On Sunday, June 1, award presentations are poolside at 10am at Ensenada’s Hotel San Nicolás. Info: SCORE International, U.S. tel. (818)225-8402.

May 31: A Sunset Concert with Francisco Cespedes
The Cuban-born singer/composer performs romantic music in the Plaza de Toros of L.A. Cetto Winery in Valle de Guadalupe, Km. 73.5 on Ensenada-Tecate Highway 3. Doors open at 4pm; concert is at 6pm. General admission is $40dlls.; VIP seating is $60dlls. Wine and food available. Info & tickets: L.A. Cetto offices, Ensenada tel. (646)175-2363, Valle de Guadalupe tel. (646)155-2264, Tijuana tel. (664)685-3031; e-mail

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June 2008

Thru June 1: 40th Tecate SCORE Baja 500
The legendary desert race in which more than 300 cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATVs from the United States, Mexico, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan traverse nearly 500 miles of rugged mountain, forest and desert terrain in their attempts to “beat the Baja.” This year’s race starts and finishes in front of Ensenada’s historic Riviera Cultural Center on Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas). On Thursday, May 29, there is the Autograph Signing Fiesta from 1-11pm and racer/media registration from 2-6pm. On Friday, May 30, the pre-race SCORE Manufacturer’s Midway and tech inspection takes place on the boulevard across from the Riviera from 10am-6pm. On Saturday, May 31, motorcycles and ATVs start at 6am, followed by trucks and cars at approximately 10am. On Sunday, June 1, award presentations are poolside at 10am at Ensenada’s Hotel San Nicolás. Info: SCORE International, U.S. tel. (818)225-8402.

Thru June 2: “Mi Trabajo es el Mar (My Work is the Sea)” Photo Exposition
UAM social anthropology student Dzilam Méndez displays his color digital photos that focus on the lives of tuna fishermen in the lobby of Teatro de la Cuidad on Av. Diamante, Ensenada. The April 11 artist reception at 7pm is open to the public. Lobby hours: 8am-3pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.

Thru June 25: “Autorretrato (Self-Portrait)” Painting Exposition
More than two dozen Ensenada artists reveal their inner selves in large format paintings in the Sala Ernesto Muñoz Acosta of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The April 23 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., 11am-7pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

June 1: Día de la Marina (Navy Day in Mexico)

June 1: 11th Annual Mushroom Festival

1-9pm: Food fair and restaurant culinary competition of mushroom-based dishes on Av. López Mateos between Av. Alvarado and Av. Blancarte, Ensenada. Wine, beer, live entertainment, raffles, and mushroom exhibitions by the science faculty of UABC University. Ticket ($12-15dlls.) includes food samples and beverages. Info & tickets: CANIRAC Chamber of Restaurants, tel. (646)174-0448; e-mail
See 2006 review & photos


June 6, 7 & 8: “Nunsense” a Musical
Directed by Mike Beals, the Wigs & Giggles Repertory Group presents this hilarious Off Broadway musical about five zany nuns at Gertrude Pearlman Theatre at Campo La Jolla in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Performances are on Friday and Saturday at 7pm and on Sunday at 2pm. Ticket donation: $8dlls. ($7dlls. if purchased in advance from May 1-June 5). Info & tickets: Heather Hamilton, tel. (646)154-2452; e-mail
 
June 7: 140th Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park

June 7: Dinner Concert of Classical Music
7pm: A festive evening that serves as the opening reception for the Roberto Calderón Art Exposition (June 7-15) at Club Deportivo Puerto Salina, Carr. Tijuana-Ensenada Km. 73, approximately 23 miles north of Ensenada. Admission ($70dlls. per couple) includes dinner, flamenco music and a concert of classical music by Grupo Ensamble. Tickets & info: Club Deportivo Puerto Salina, tel. (646)155-4110 or (646)155-4109; e-mail 
 
June 7-15: Roberto Calderón Art Exposition
Ensenada artist Roberto Calderón exhibits his paintings and sculptures at Club Deportivo Puerto Salina, Carr. Tijuana-Ensenada Km. 73, approximately 23 miles north of Ensenada. Exhibition hours: 9am-6pm daily. Free admission. Info: Club Deportivo Puerto Salina, tel. (646)155-4110 or (646)155-4109; e-mail 
 
June 7 & 8: Circuito Panamericano Baja California 2008 Dog Show
10am-4pm: Come and watch purebred dogs from Mexico and the United States compete for the titles of Mexican Champion and Grand Mexican Champion in the gardens of the Hotel Corona, located on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) #1442 & Av. Club Rotario, Ensenada. Free admission for spectators but please do not bring noncompeting dogs. For more information or to enter the dog competition (advance registration required), visit www.clubcanofilocaliente.com or call Claudia Pierce, Tijuana tel. (664)633-7395.

June 7, 14, 21 & 28: Bazar Centro Artesanal
10am-6pm: A colorful outdoor bazaar featuring local artists and their original works, native Pai-Pai potters and Kumiai basket weavers, and a variety of vendors offering quality Mexican crafts, collectibles, antiques, books, regional foods, beverages and produce every Saturday at Centro Artesanal on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Castillo, Ensenada. Free admission. For more information or to participate as a vendor, contact Centro Artesanal administrator Adalberto Pérez Meillón, tel. (646)175-7848; e-mail 

June 8: Fiesta of the Flowering Vineyards (Fiesta de los Viñedos en Flor)
Noon-5pm: Originally scheduled for May 11, this colorful event at Bibayoff Winery in Valle de Guadalupe is an excellent opportunity to sample wines from many different wineries and enjoy regional foods and music in a family atmosphere. Admission is $2dlls. per child, $10dlls. per adult (wine tasting included). Proceeds benefit Albergue San Vicente Shelter in Ensenada. Advance tickets are recommended and available through the Baja California Winemakers Association, tel. (646)178-3038; e-mail 

June 13: San Antonio Necua Festival

10am-midnight: The Kumiai community of San Antonio Necua presents its annual festival, a cultural gathering of Yuman tribes (Pai-Pai, Cucapah, Kiliwa and Kumiai) with traditional dancers and bird singers, an intertribal piak tournament, arts and crafts exhibitions, a bonfire at sunset, and complimentary meals. Free admission. For a small fee, participate in craft workshops and guided nature hikes. The community is located in Valle de Guadalupe off Ensenada-Tecate Highway 3 (at Km. 73.5 take dirt road and continue approximately 5 miles, passing L.A. Cetto Winery and following signs to Necua). Camping is available for $5dlls./night per vehicle with up to 5 persons. Info: ADESU Alliance for Sustainable Development/Horacio González, tel. (646)178-8780; e-mail

June 14: Flag Day (U.S.)
 
June 15: Father’s Day
 
June 20-22: Ensenada-San Felipe 250 Off-road Race
More than 200 cars, trucks, ATVs and motorcycles from both sides of the border compete on a challenging off-road course. Info: RECORD Off-Road Series/Ramón Castro, tel. (646)176-1637.

June 21: “Lady de la Lena”Art Exhibit
1-7pm: Celebrate the Summer Solstice with Ensenada artist and storyteller Martina at Joanna Jones Galería & Cafe at Villa Borja in Cantamar, Tijuana-Ensenada Free Road Km. 47.6 (a half mile north of the Cantamar exit from the Toll Road). Enjoy Italian food by Dominic, Baja California wine tastings, music by songwriter/guitarist D’Elle, a drum circle hosted by Thomas & Tombo Raisticos, and a “Starving Artists” reduced art sale. Info: Joanna Jones, cell tel. (646)193-0072, U.S. tel. (619)819-2994 or e-mail

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July 2008

July 4: Independence Day (U.S.)

July 12: Baja Scholarship Foundation Charity Golf Tournament
A shot-gun start, scramble tournament with a post-golf carne asada patio party, raffle and awards ceremony at Baja Country Club, located approximately 8 miles south of Ensenada. Check-in is 9-10am, putting contest is 9:30am, start is 10:30am. Cost ($65dlls./player) includes golf, cart, prizes and 3:30pm party. “Party only” cost for non-golfers is $8dlls./person. Proceeds benefit the non-profit Baja Scholarship Foundation which assists needy Mexican children and their families. Info and tournament registration (limited to 48 golfers): Marylee Donovan, tel. (646)155-4134; e-mail
 
July 18-20: 4th Annual Baja Rosario Festival
A cultural festival celebrating the founding of of the first Dominican mission, Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Viñadaco, by Friar Vicente Mora in July of 1774. The three-day event features rodeos, horse races, nightly dances with live music, a beauty pageant, carnival rides, regional foods, an art exposition and tours of mission sites, museums and other local points of interest. Festivities begin on Friday afternoon and continue through Sunday night. The town of El Rosario is located approximately 150 miles south of Ensenada via the Transpeninsular Highway. Info: Antonio Muñoz, U.S. cell tel. 619-664-3585; e-mail
See 2005 review & photos
See 2006 story & photos

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August 2008

August 1-17: Fiestas de la Vendimia
The annual Grape Harvest Festival with different cultural and culinary events at wineries, vineyards and restaurants in Ensenada, San Antonio de las Minas and Valle de Guadalupe. Info: Baja California Winemakers Association, tel. (646)178-3038; e-mail

August 2 & 3: Nativa 2008 Festival of Traditional Arts of Baja California
9am-5pm: A cultural gathering of native artists from the Pai-Pai, Kumiai, Cucapá and Kiliwa communities who present their pottery, basketry, beaded jewelry and other unique handmade items and offer traditional foods, interactive crafts classes, an arts contest and informational exhibits at Plaza Ventana al Mar on the waterfront at the giant flagpole near Blvd. Costero & Alvarado, Ensenada. The “Kuri Kuri” (a traditional gathering of gourd singers) reunites members of related tribal groups from California, Arizona and Baja California as they share traditions of music and dance. Free admission. Info: ADESU Alliance for Sustainable Development/Horacio González, tel. (646)178-8780; e-mail 
 
August 16: 13th Annual Los Gordos Chili Cookoff & Salsa Contest
Noon-5pm: Join the fun at this friendly neighborhood “anything goes” cookoff at Restaurant/Bar Los Gordos at Rancho La Bufadora in Punta Banda, 21 miles south of Ensenada. Taste chili ($1dll. fee) and salsas; enjoy raffles and other surprises. Cook's entry fees (amateurs only) are $10dlls. for chili (judged at 3pm), $7dlls. for salsa (judged at 1pm). Info & cook’s registration: Kathleen Taormina, tel. (646)152-0090; e-mail

August 16: L.A. Cetto “Fiesta Colores de Vendimia 2008”
Noon: L.A. Cetto Winery celebrates its grape harvest with a gala fiesta including the blessing of the first harvest, grape stomping contests, wine tasting, country dinner, bullfights, live entertainment and fireworks at the vineyards in Valle de Guadalupe, 25 miles northeast of Ensenada at Km. 73.5 on Highway 3. Info: L.A. Cetto offices, Ensenada tel. (646)175-2363, Valle de Guadalupe tel. (646)155-2264, Tijuana tel. (664)685-3031; e-mail
 
August 17: 6th Annual Summer Taco & Beer Festival
10am-8pm: Enjoy Tecate beers, live entertainment, raffles, and all types of tacos (seafood, beef, pork, chicken, etc.) prepared by local taquerías at Plaza Ventana al Mar on the waterfront at the giant flagpole near Blvd. Costero & Alvarado, Ensenada. For information and tickets call Olivia Herrera, cell tel. (646)132-6094.

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September 2008

September 1: Labor Day (U.S.)
 
September 13 & 14: Cabalgata de la Independencia 2008
A 4-5 hour guided horseback riding adventure in the Sierra de Juarez. Registration fee includes meals and overnight camping (bring your own tent and equipment) at Rancho El Alamar. Horse rental available or bring your own. Registration & info: Alfredo Vizcarra, cell tel. (646)179-5074 or Tijuana tel. (664)902-3681; e-mail

September 16: Día de la Independencia (Mexican Independence Day)
Banks, schools, government offices and some businesses close on this Mexican holiday that is celebrated with parades, civic ceremonies and fiestas throughout the republic.
 
September 27: 29th Fall Rosarito-Ensenada Fun Bicycle Ride
10am: Over 7,500 cyclists participate in this scenic 50-mile ride along the Free Road that starts in downtown Rosarito Beach and finishes in Ensenada with a fiesta from noon-sunset at Plaza Ventana al Mar on the waterfront at the giant flagpole. Register online or call Bicycling West, U.S. tel. 858-483-8777 for recorded message. In Ensenada contact Andres Muñoz, tel. (646)174-0033.
 
September 30: Rosh Hashanah Begins at Sundown

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October 2008

October 9: Yom Kippur
 
October 12: Día de la Raza (Columbus Day in Mexico)
 
October 12: Real del Castillo Festival
10am-8pm: Celebrate the anniversary of this historic former gold mining town, the capital of Baja California during the 1880s. Visitors are requested to dress in vintage attire to compete for prizes while enjoying this traditional country style fiesta. Historic exhibitions, entertainment, free barbacoa. Bring your own potable water, sodas and snacks. Real del Castillo is located approximately 30 miles southeast of Ensenada. Take Ensenada-San Felipe Highway 3 into central Ojos Negros, then follow the signs. Info: Beatriz Toboada, tel. (646)178-6038.
 
October 13: Columbus Day Observed (U.S.)
 
October 26: Daylight Saving Time Ends (Mexico)
 
October 31: Halloween

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November 2008

November 2: Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead in Mexico)
Día de Muertos is one of Mexico's most traditional religious holidays as deceased loved ones are remembered with special altars, flowers, candles and their favorite foods. A sweet bread, pan de muertos, can be found at bakeries, and candy skulls, coffins and skeletons are featured at dulcerías. Celebrations and candlelight processions are held in local cemeteries.

November 2: Daylight Saving Time Ends (U.S.)
 
November 4: Election Day (U.S.)
 
November 11: Veteran’s Day (U.S.)
 
November 17: Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day in Mexico) Observed
 
November 19-22: 41st Anniversary Tecate SCORE Baja 1000
Chronicled in the 2005 full length feature documentary “Dust to Glory,” the Baja 1000 is the legendary off-road race in which more than 400 cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATVs challenge nearly 1,300 miles of rugged mountain, forest and desert terrain in their attempts to “beat the Baja.” Info: SCORE International, U.S. tel. (818)225-8402.
 
November 20: Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day in Mexico)
 
November 27: Thanksgiving Day (U.S.)

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December 2008

December 1: World AIDS Day
 
December 12: Día de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (Our Lady of Guadalupe Day in Mexico)
 
December 12-14: Race Ready Ensenada-San Felipe 275 Off-Road Race
More than 220 cars, trucks, ATVs and motorcycles from both sides of the border compete in a challenging off-road event that is the last in the Record Off-Road Series. Info: RECORD Off-Road Series/Ramón Castro, tel. (646)176-1637.

December 22: First Day of Hannukah
 
December 25: Christmas Day
 
December 26: First Day of Kwanzaa

December 27-March 2009: Guided Whale Watching Tours
View the magnificent California gray whales