Ensenada Gazette - 2008 Ensenada Events Calendar

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UPCOMING
EVENTS

in ensenada county's most comprehensive up-to-date english language calendar

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WEB DESIGN BY CONNIE ELLIG & ELECTRAWEB

text by connie ellig

UPDATED DECEMBER 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 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 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 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-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 Ciudad 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: 9am-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: 9am-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 Ciudad 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 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 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 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. A portion of proceeds benefits Club Rotario Ensenada Calafia, A.C. 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.
See photos and concert review

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: 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: 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 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 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: 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 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-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. Starters have a 20-hour time period to officially finish the 441.15-mile race. 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. Starters have a 20-hour time period to officially finish the 441.15-mile race. 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 Ciudad 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., noon-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: A 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 (rondalla, blues and Latin dance music), raffles, and mushroom exhibitions by the science faculty of UABC University. Ticket ($12dlls.) includes food samples and beverages. Info & tickets: CANIRAC Chamber of Restaurants, tel. (646)174-0448; e-mail
See 2006 review & photos

June 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29: 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.

June 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30: Film Series “Stanley Kubrick, in Honor of the 40th Anniversary of 2001: A Space Odyssey”
7pm: The Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of films by one of the greatest directors and producers of the 20th century. The free showings of “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) on June 2, “A Clockwork Orange” (1972) on June 9, “Lolita” (1962) on June 16, “Full Metal Jacket” (1987) on June 23 and “Killer’s Kiss” (1955) on June 30 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.

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 6-July 16: “Trece Años (Thirteen Years)” Sculpture Exposition
An exhibition of ceramic sculptures by Ensenada artist Patricia López in the Galería de la Ciudad in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The June 6 artist reception at 7:30pm is open to the public. Gallery hours: 9am-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.

June 7: 140th Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park

June 7: Galería Pérez Meillón 20th Anniversary Celebration
6:30pm: Enjoy wine, cheese, bread, live music and great company as Adalberto Pérez Meillón celebrates his birthday and 20th year in business at Galería Pérez Meillón in Centro Artesanal, Locale #40, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) #1094 & Av. Castillo, Ensenada. Please RSVP at (646)175-7848 or e-mail

June 7: “Four Inspirations: Sonatas and Sonatinas for Clarinet and Piano” Concert
8pm: Pianist Santos Cota and clarinetist Emiliano López perform classical selections 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. General admission is $10dlls., students $5dlls. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

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 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 10: “The Passion of Russia and America” Concert
7pm: Mexico City mezzo-soprano Verónica Alexanderson and pianist Farizat Tchibirova perform classical and popular music by Russian and American 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. General admission is $10dlls., students $5dlls. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

June 12-August 4: “XVI Bienal Plástica de Baja California” Visual Arts Exposition
More than 90 outstanding paintings, drawings, sculptures and graphic works by Baja California artists that were selected from the “XVI Bienal Plástica de Baja California” art competition held in November 2007 are on display 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 June 12 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 13: San Antonio Necua Festival POSTPONED UNTIL JULY 5

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July 2008

Thru July 13: 27th Expo Feria San Quintín
6pm-midnight: An annual fair with exhibitions of regional products, foods and crafts, a “Señorita San Quintín Expo Fair 2008” beauty pageant, music, dancing, entertainment and fun for the entire family at Centro Deportivo de San Quintín, located approximately 110 miles south of Ensenada. Free admission. Info: Arturo Aviña, cell tel. (616)163-0249 or Felipe García, cell tel. (616)107-0225.

Thru July 16: “Trece Años (Thirteen Years)” Sculpture Exposition
An exhibition of ceramic sculptures by Ensenada artist Patricia López in the Galería de la Ciudad in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The June 6 artist reception at 7:30pm is open to the public. Gallery hours: 9am-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.

Thru August 4: “XVI Bienal Plástica de Baja California” Visual Arts Exposition
More than 90 outstanding paintings, drawings, sculptures and graphic works by Baja California artists that were selected from the “XVI Bienal Plástica de Baja California” art competition held in November 2007 are on display 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 June 12 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., noon-7pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

July 4: Independence Day (U.S.)

July 4: Ensenada Jazz in Concert
8pm: An outdoor concert featuring the incomparable Ensenada Jazz at the Foro Experimental and Plaza de las Artes 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.

July 4-August 26: “Primero Sueño (First I Dream)” Painting Exposition
International award winning Ensenada painter/sculptor/ceramicist José Carrillo Cedillo presents 15 of his colorful paintings created between 2000 and 2008 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 July 4 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., noon-7pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

July 5: 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

July 5 & 6: Expo-Feria de la Mascota 08
10am-5pm: Sponsored by Purina Pro Plan, the pet expo-fair in the parking lot of Ensenada’s Hotel Paraíso Las Palmas on Av. Sangines #206 will feature pet supply booths, souvenirs, regional foods (for bipeds and quadrupeds), and contests with prizes for the mascot in best costume, the mascot with the best trick, and the best trained dog. There is no fee to enter contests but pets must be registered in advance. Spectators are welcome, free admission. Info and registration: Happy Pets Veterinary Services, tel. (646)172-4030; e-mail

July 5, 12, 19 & 26: 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

July 6, 13, 20 & 27: 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.

July 7, 14, 21 & 28: Film Series “Wim Wenders, the New German Cinema”
7pm: The Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of films by this acclaimed German director, playwright and producer. The free showings of “Paris Texas” (1984) on July 7, “Wings of Desire” (1987) on July 14, “Far Away, So Close” (1993) on July 21, and “End of Violence” (1997) on July 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. Films are in English with Spanish subtitles. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

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 12: Valle Sunset
2pm: A lively party geared toward 18 to 30-year-olds featuring Mexico City rockers Grupo Motel in the vineyards of L.A. Cetto Winery in Valle de Guadalupe, Km. 73.5 on Ensenada-Tecate Highway 3. General admission is $50dlls. ($40dlls. in advance); VIP seating is $70dlls. ($60dlls. in advance). 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

July 12 & 13: Bud Light Baja Open Beach Volleyball Fiesta 2008
Pro and novice men and women’s teams from all over the world compete for medals and up to $4,000dlls. in cash and prizes at Playa Hermosa, one mile south of Ensenada. Play starts at 11am on Saturday and at 9am on Sunday. Spectators welcome, free admission. For tournament registration & fees, visit www.bajaopen.com or contact Alberto Arreola, tels. (646)176-9155 or (646)149-0013; e-mail

July 14-August 8: “Ancestral Pipe” Archeological Exhibition
A 1,200-year-old polished stone pipe that was discovered in recent excavations in the Baja Mar zone of Ensenada’s coast is on display at the Museo Histórico Regional (former Ensenada jail) on Av. Gastelum between Av. Lopez Mateos & Virgilio Uribe, Ensenada. Museum hours: 9am-5pm Tues.-Sun. Free admission. Info: Museo Histórico Regional de Ensenada, tel. (646)178-3692.

July 17-August 3: Ensenada Feria de Verano 2008
5pm-1am: A family-oriented summer expo fair with rides, games, regional foods and beverages, artisan booths, commercial exhibitions and live entertainment at Macro Plaza del Mar, across from Costco on the Transpeninsular Highway, approximately 3 miles south of Ensenada. Special events include an acrobatic automobile and freestyle motorcycle Xtreme Challenge (July 25, 26 & 27), “Los Chicharrines” Circus (Thursdays thru Sundays), and concerts by Joan Sebastián (July 27), Gloria Trevi (August 3), El Coyote y su Banda, Los Huizapoles, and other artists. Festival admission is free but there is a charge for rides, concerts and other special events. Info: Comité de Eventos Especiales, tel. (646)175-7740.

July 18-August 19: “De Punta a Punta (From Point to Point)” Art Exposition
An exhibition of 12 portraits by Mexico City painter Héctor Herrera in the lobby of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The July 18 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., noon-7pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

July 19: La Sociedad de Vecinos de Punta Banda Country Fair
11am-5pm: Bring the whole family to this annual event that features arts & crafts, a cake auction, chicken dinners, full bar service, music, dancing, activities for kids and contests for all ages at Campo La Jolla Salon in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Admission donation is $1dlls. Info: Steve Eversole, tel. (646)154-2915. Craft vendor tables ($15dlls.) are available through Heather Hamilton, tel. (646)154-2452; e-mail

July 19: Club Compañeros de Baja Norte Christmas in July
1-4pm: Join the Compañeros for a traditional Christmas dinner of turkey with all the trimmings at the clubhouse on Calle Mazatlán #256 in Fracc. Acapulco, one mile south of Ensenada. DJ music, no host bar. Donation is $8dlls. Proceeds benefit club charities. Info & tickets: Carol Coons, tel. (646)174-5164; e-mail

July 19 & 20: Baja Series Motocross 2008 in Tecate, B.C.
Round Three of this exciting motorsport series takes place at Eufrasio Santana Stadium in Tecate. Info: Baja Series Motocross, cell tel. (646)947-5330; e-mail

July 24: Binational Emergency Medical Care Committee “Weight Reduction – A Health Priority” Conference in Bonita, CA
9am-2pm: An informative half day of seminars conducted by binational medical experts (with simultaneous translation) who speak about obesity, plastic & reconstructive surgery, cardiovascular problems and how to resolve esthetic problems related to obesity at the Chula Vista Golf Course, 4475 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA. Ticket ($35dlls. or $300dlls. for table of ten) includes conference, continental breakfast and lunch. The event is a fundraiser for the Binational Emergency Medical Care Committee, a non-profit organization that coordinates 24-hour medical emergency evacuation out of Mexico. For tickets or more information contact Celia Diaz, at U.S. tel. (619)425-5080, e-mail

July 25-August 24: “Galería de la Ciudad 18th Anniversary” Collective Art Exposition
Drawings and illustrations by more than 15 Ensenada artists are on display at the Galería de la Ciudad in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The July 25 artist reception at 7:30pm is open to the public. Gallery hours: 9-11:30am & 1:30-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.

July 26: “Enological Visit” at L.A. Cetto
11am: Guided tours, a wine conference with Enologist Camilo Magoni, wine tasting, country luncheon, music and dancing at L.A. Cetto Winery in Valle de Guadalupe, 25 miles northeast of Ensenada at Km. 73.5 on Highway 3 (to Tecate). Ticket: $45dlls. Info: L.A. Cetto offices, Ensenada tel. (646)175-2363, Valle de Guadalupe tel. (646)155-2264, Tijuana tel. (664)685-3031; e-mail

July 26: “Magic of Summer” Concert
7pm: Soprano Esther González, accompanied by pianist Evgeny Korolkov, performs in the Pro Música Ensenada concert hall, Av. Obregon 1025 (between Calles 10 & 11), Ensenada. Donation: $10dlls. Info & tickets: Margit Gantt, tel. (646)174-7969; e-mail

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August 2008

Thru August 3: Ensenada Feria de Verano 2008
5pm-1am: A family-oriented summer expo fair with rides, games, regional foods and beverages, artisan booths, commercial exhibitions and live entertainment at Macro Plaza del Mar, across from Costco on the Transpeninsular Highway, approximately 3 miles south of Ensenada. Special events include an acrobatic automobile and freestyle motorcycle Xtreme Challenge (July 25, 26 & 27), “Los Chicharrines” Circus (Thursdays thru Sundays), and concerts by Gloria Trevi (August 3), El Coyote y su Banda, Los Huizapoles, and other artists. Festival admission is free but there is a charge for rides, concerts and other special events. Info: Comité de Eventos Especiales, tel. (646)175-7740.

Thru August 4: “XVI Bienal Plástica de Baja California” Visual Arts Exposition
More than 90 outstanding paintings, drawings, sculptures and graphic works by Baja California artists that were selected from the “XVI Bienal Plástica de Baja California” art competition held in November 2007 are on display 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 June 12 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 August 8: “Ancestral Pipe” Archeological Exhibition
A 1,200-year-old polished stone pipe that was discovered in recent excavations in the Baja Mar zone of Ensenada’s coast is on display at the Museo Histórico Regional (former Ensenada jail) on Av. Gastelum between Av. Lopez Mateos & Virgilio Uribe, Ensenada. Museum hours: 9am-5pm Tues.-Sun. Free admission. Info: Museo Histórico Regional de Ensenada, tel. (646)178-3692.

Thru August 19: “De Punta a Punta (From Point to Point)” Art Exposition
An exhibition of 12 portraits by Mexico City painter Héctor Herrera in the lobby of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The July 18 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., noon-7pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

July 25-August 24: “Galería de la Ciudad 18th Anniversary” Collective Art Exposition
Drawings and illustrations by more than 15 Ensenada artists are on display at the Galería de la Ciudad in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The July 25 artist reception at 7:30pm is open to the public. Gallery hours: 9-11:30am & 1:30-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.

Thru August 26: “Primero Sueño (First I Dream)” Painting Exposition
International award winning Ensenada painter/sculptor/ceramicist José Carrillo Cedillo presents 15 of his colorful paintings created between 2000 and 2008 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 July 4 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., noon-7pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

August 1-17: Fiestas de la Vendimia
The annual Grape Harvest Festival with different cultural and culinary events, concerts and seminars at wineries, vineyards and restaurants in Ensenada, San Antonio de las Minas, Valle de Guadalupe, Tecate, Tijuana and Mexicali. For the program of events and ticket information, visit www.fiestasdelavendimia.com or call the Asociación de Vinicultores de Baja California, tel. (646)178-3038 or Viajes Damiana, tel. (646)178-3136.

August 2 & 3: Nativa 2008 Festival of Traditional Arts of Baja California RESCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 31!
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 2-17: Fiestas de la Vendimia 1st Annual “Ruta del Arte/Baja Art Walk”
10am-6pm: More than 40 of Baja’s best artists exhibit over 300 paintings, sculptures and photographs along with a special limited exposition of works by Mexican and international masters like Rivera, Siqueiros, Pablo O’Higgins, Alfredo Zalce, Mark King, LeRoy Neiman and others at Jardín Las Veredas in San Antonio de las Minas. Free admission. Food and drink available for purchase. Info: Jardín Las Veredas, tel. (646)155-3239; e-mail

August 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31: 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.

August 4, 11, 18 & 25: Film Series “Wes Anderson, Defying the Author’s Theory with Style”
7pm: The Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of films by this acclaimed American director, writer and producer. The free showings of “The Darjeeling Limited” (2007) on August 4, “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” (2004) on August 11, “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001) on August 18, and “Rushmore” (1998) on August 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 English with Spanish subtitles. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

August 9: Baja Jazz Festival 08
4pm: The Iraida Noriega Trio, Gilbert Castellanos Sextet, Ensenada Jazz, ACHE Colectivo and TJ Groove Station perform in the vineyards of L.A. Cetto Winery in Valle de Guadalupe, Km. 73.5 on Ensenada-Tecate Highway 3. General admission is $35dlls. Proceeds benefit the Puesto de Socorros del Valle de Guadalupe. Food and house wines sold at event. More info at Spanish-language web site or contact the L.A. Cetto offices, Ensenada tel. (646)175-2363, Valle de Guadalupe tel. (646)155-2179, Tijuana tel. (664)685-3031; e-mail

August 10: 2nd Annual “Ensenada Se Viste de Vino (Ensenada Dresses Up in Wine)” Culinary Fair
1-9pm: Baja California wineries and restaurants participate in a gastronomic fair that promotes the marriage of food and wine on Av. Ruiz between Av. López Mateos & Calle 2 in Ensenada. Also enjoy live music, entertainment and raffles. Info & tickets: CANIRAC Chamber of Restaurants, tel. (646)174-0448; e-mail

August 10: Fiestas de la Vendimia “Fandango Concert”
6pm: Grupo Pa’sumecha! presents a fusion concert of music, dance and poetry from the south of Veracruz at the Foro Experimental and Plaza de las Artes 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.

August 11: Fiestas de la Vendimia “Fiesta Callejera (Urban Street Fair)”
5-10pm: An open-air festival with live music, performances, clowns, breakdancing, graffiti art and other expressions of contemporary urban and street art at the Foro Experimental and Plaza de las Artes 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.

August 14: Fiestas de la Vendimia “Celebration on the Valley”
4pm: A traditional fiesta with games, music, food and wines from different wineries at Parque de Ejido El Porvenir in Valle de Guadalupe, northeast of Ensenada. Free admission. Info: Asociación de Vinicultores de Baja California, tel. (646)178-3038.

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 1:30pm). Info & cook’s registration: Kathleen Taormina, tel. (646)152-0090; e-mail

August 16: L.A. Cetto “Fiesta Colores de Vendimia 2008” SOLD OUT!!!
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 16: Fiestas de la Vendimia “Santo Tomás Street Fair”
2pm: A colorful street fair with games, regional foods, house wines, art exhibitions, cultural presentations, and all types of music at Bodegas de Santo Tomás Winery, Av. Miramar between Calles 6 & 7, Ensenada. Free admission. Info: Asociación de Vinicultores de Baja California, tel. (646)178-3038.

August 17: 6th Annual Summer Taco & Beer Festival
10am-8pm: Enjoy Tecate beers, live music and entertainment, raffles, and all types of tacos (seafood, beef, pork, chicken, etc.) prepared by more than 20 local taquerías at Plaza Ventana al Mar on the waterfront at the giant flagpole near Blvd. Costero & Alvarado, Ensenada. Admission ticket ($13dlls.) includes 5 tacos and 5 beers. For info and tickets call Olivia Herrera, cell tel. (646)132-6094 or (646)177-0732.

August 21: José Cuervo Tequila Talk: “Energy Reform in Mexico with Cuauhtémoc Cárdenas” in La Jolla, CA
6:30-7:45pm: An informal, cross-border forum featuring guest speaker Cuauhtémoc Cárdenas, a leader of Mexico’s left and the founder of the Partido de la Revolución Democrática (PRD), who is calling on PRD lawmakers to propose alternatives to President Felipe Calderon’s energy reform that will allow Mexico to confront the challenges posed by declining petroleum production. Cárdenas, the son of President Lazaro Cárdenas who nationalized the oil industry in 1938, contends that Calderon’s energy reform violates the Mexican Constitution. The free lecture is open to the public at the Institute of the Americas, 10111 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA. For info and registration visit www.iamericas.org or call the Institute of the Americas, U.S. tel. (858)453-5560.

August 21: “Japan, Poetic Expression”
7:30pm: Held in conjunction with the Japanese Association of Ensenada, this event includes music, ceremonies and the presentation of Joaquin Martínez Torres’ book “Haikus” 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.

August 23: Mexico Tourism, Travel & Real Estate Expo in Orange County, CA
10:30am-4pm: An informative exposition with with complimentary seminars, raffle drawings, and more than 60 Mexico-related real estate, travel, tourism, resort, golf and media exhibitors at the Marriott Hotel Irvine, 18000 Von Karman Avenue, Irvine, California. Free admission. For more info including exhibit and sponsorship availability, contact Ted Donovan at U.S. tel. (619)985-4950; e-mail

August 23-October 26: “Mezcla de Maestros: Masters of Mexico’s Past and Present” Art Exposition
A unique opportunity to view works by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo, Pablo O’Higgins and Alfredo Zalce alongside those of José Carrillo Cedillo, Enrique Avilez, Alfonso Arámbula and other present-day artists at Galería Las Veredas in San Antonio de las Minas. Gallery hours: 10am-5pm Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Coffee and wine bar open. Info: Jardín Las Veredas, tel. (646)155-3239; e-mail

August 29: “Fantasía de Verano (Summer Fantasy)” Classical Music Concert
7:30pm: Pianist Francisco Kuniochi Hernandez Nakajara, a Mexican-Japanese resident of France, performs works by Bach, Chopin, Messian and Faure 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 $5dlls. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

August 29-31: RECORD Off-Road Series "Ojos Negros 200 Night Race"
Cars, trucks, ATVs and motorcycles from both sides of the border compete in a challenging off-road event. Info: RECORD Off-Road Series/Ramón Castro, tel. (646)176-1637.

August 30 & 31: Marina Puerto Salina Sportfishing Tournament
Anglers are invited to compete for trophies and prizes in bottom and surface fishing categories at Marina Puerto Salina, Carr. Tijuana-Ensenada Km. 73, approximately 23 miles north of Ensenada. Saturday start is 5am with weigh-in before 6pm. Sunday start is 5am with weigh-in by 2pm and award ceremonies at 5pm. Entry fee is $70dlls. per person. Info & registration: Marina Puerto Salina, tel. (646)155-4186 or U.S. toll free 1-866-365-2562; e-mail

August 31: 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

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September 2008

September 1: Labor Day (U.S.)

September 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29: Film Series “A September of Mexican Cinema”
7pm: The Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of films by different acclaimed Mexican directors. The free showings of “Animas Trujano” (1961) on September 1, “María Candelaria” (1943) on September 8, “Pepe el Toro” (1952) on September 15, “Modisto de Señoras” (1969) on September 22, and “Drama-Mex” (2006) on September 29 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. This month’s films are in Spanish with English subtitles. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

September 6: Festival Taurino
2pm: Club Rotario Ensenada Centenaria presents its annual celebration that includes Spanish paella (from 3pm), bullfights (at 4pm) and live entertainment at the Plaza de Toros of L.A. Cetto Winery in Valle de Guadalupe, Km. 73.5 on Ensenada-Tecate Highway 3. Advance tickets ($60dlls. including paella) are recommended. Proceeds benefit Club Rotario projects. House wines sold at event. Info & tickets: Lou Hernandez, tel. (646)177-4987; e-mail or Felizardo Palacios at Proturismo, tel. (646)178-2411.

September 6 & 7 and 13 & 14: “Exit the Body,” a Mystery Farce
A famous authoress hopes to find rest and relaxation in the New England countryside. What she discovers is something else entirely. Come join in the fun! This play, directed by Connie Morgan, includes a cast of seasoned thespians and some new actors treading the boards for the first time at Gertrude Pearlman Theatre at Campo La Jolla in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Performances are on Saturday at 7pm and on Sunday at 2pm. Ticket donation: $8dlls. ($7dlls. if purchased in advance from August 1-September 5). Info & tickets: Heather Hamilton, tel. (646)154-2452; e-mail

September 7, 14, 21 & 28: 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.

September 13: “Noche Mexicana (Mexican Night)” Fiesta & Concert
7pm: A pre-Mexican Independence Day celebration with a Mexican buffet dinner and “Mexico of Yesterday” chamber music concert featuring renowned Ensenada soprano Esther González and pianist Mario LaMadrid at Jardín Las Veredas in San Antonio de las Minas. Tickets & info: Jardín Las Veredas, tel. (646)155-3239 or Viajes Damiana, tel. (646)178-3136.

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 13 & 14: Red Bull Supercross
The fourth and final round of the exciting Baja Motocross 2008 series takes place on a track set in downtown Ensenada’s arroyo. On Saturday, practice starts at 1pm. On Sunday, the competition for trophies and cash takes place from 10am-3pm. Sunday general admission is $8.50dlls., VIP seating is $17.50dlls. Info & tickets: Baja Series Motocross, tel. (646)175-4652; 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 16: “Viva México” Celebration
4-8pm: A Mexican Independence Day fiesta with traditional music and folkloric dancers at the Foro Experimental and Plaza de las Artes 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.

September 18-21: Expo Fiesta Viva 2008
10am-9pm: Nearly 100 exhibitors from Ensenada promote their commercial, cultural, tourism, educational and industrial goods and services at the Riviera Cultural Center on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario, Ensenada. Also enjoy artistic entertainment, regional foods and fun for the entire family. Free admission. Info: CANACO Chamber of Commerce, tel. (646)178-2322; e-mail

September 20: Raul Di Blasio in Concert
4pm: The world famous Argentine pianist and composer, known as “The Pianist of the People,” performs in the Plaza de Toros of L.A. Cetto Winery in Valle de Guadalupe, Km. 73.5 on Ensenada-Tecate Highway 3. 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

September 26 & 27: Redondo Beach-Ensenada Sister Cities Bike Ride
To show support for Sister Cities programs, cyclists will ride for fun and friendship from Redondo Beach to San Diego on Friday, then from Rosarito to Ensenada on Saturday. The Ensenada Sister Cities Committee will host a paella reception for participants. Info: Ensenada Sister Cities Committee President Dr. Jorge Saenz, tel. (646)152-1762; e-mail

September 27: La Sociedad de Vecinos de Punta Banda Pancake Breakfast & Annual Elections
For a $3dlls. donation, enjoy bacon, fresh fruit and all-you-can-eat pancakes from 8:30-9:45am, followed by La Sociedad’s monthly meeting and annual elections at 10am at Campo La Jolla Salon in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. New members welcome! Proceeds benefit La Sociedad Scholarship Fund. Info: Kathleen Taormina, tel. (646)152-0090; e-mail

September 27: 29th Fall Rosarito-Ensenada Fun Bicycle Ride
10am: Head to Baja with 5,000 of your closest friends for this scenic 50-mile bicycle ride along the Free Road that will be the last ride ever in the history of this award winning event. The ride 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; e-mail

September 27: 10th Annual Oktoberfest Ensenada
11am-7pm: A German celebration with traditional food, beer, wine, music, fun and games at Villa Mexicana commercial center on Av. Alvarado between Av. Lopez Mateos & Calle 2 in Ensenada. Free admission. For vendor booth or other information, contact Margit Gantt, tel. (646)174-7969; e-mail

September 28: 8th International Jazz Festival Ensenada 2008
Noon-7pm: Eight outstanding jazz groups from Baja and Southern California – Gilbert Castellanos, Cosmologic, Ensenada Jazz, Tico’s Band, Neto Lizarraga, Son de Aca, Contrapunto and Blues Tequila – perform at Plaza Ventana al Mar on the waterfront at the giant flagpole near Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Alvarado, Ensenada. Free admission. Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail

September 30: Rosh Hashanah Begins at Sundown

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October 2008

Thru October 1: “Presencia (Presence)” Collective Art Exposition
Nine talented women from Ensenada exhibit their oil and acrylic paintings at the Museo Bistro (former Goldbaum Museum), Av. Ryerson #59 between Av. López Mateos and Calle 2, Ensenada. Open noon-11pm Mon.-Sat. Info: Curator Armando Franco, cell tel. (646)151-1084; e-mail

Thru October 14: Ernesto Muñoz Acosta Art Exposition
An exhibition of 11 small format works by internationally acclaimed Ensenada painter Ernesto Muñoz Acosta at the Galería de la Ciudad in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. Gallery hours: 9am-1pm & 3-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Instituto de Cultura de Baja California, tel. (646)177-3130.

Thru October 15: “Un Canto a los Desiertos Fértiles (A Chant to the Fertile Deserts)” Painting Exposition
A retrospective (1960-2008) of works by internationally renowned Mexicali artist Rubén García Benavides is on exhibition in the Sala Internacional of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The September 5 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 October 26: “Mezcla de Maestros: Masters of Mexico’s Past and Present” Art Exposition
A unique opportunity to view works by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo, Pablo O’Higgins and Alfredo Zalce alongside those of José Carrillo Cedillo, Enrique Avilez, Alfonso Arámbula and other present-day artists at Galería Las Veredas in San Antonio de las Minas. Gallery hours: 10am-5pm Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Coffee and wine bar open. Info: Jardín Las Veredas, tel. (646)155-3239; e-mail

Thru October 28: "Familia (Family)" Photography Exposition
A collective exhibition of images by local photographers 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 September 11 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-8pm Mon.-Sat., noon-7pm Sun. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

Thru October 30: “Recent Works by Armando Franco and Eduardo Tello” Art Exposition
An exhibition of new oil and acrylic paintings created by Ensenada artist Armando Franco and Ensenada/Santa Ana, CA artist Eduardo Tello at Restaurant & Wine Bar Capricho’s, Av. Ruiz #138 (next to Papas & Beer), Ensenada. Open 11am-11pm Tues.-Sun. Info: Armando Franco, cell tel. (646)151-1084; e-mail or Eduardo Tello, e-mail

October 2: Classical Music Concert
7pm: Under the direction of Maestro Luis Salazar, the Pre-Orquesta del Centro de Estudios Musicales (CEM) of the UABC Escuela de Artes performs Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 at Teatro Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $6dlls. Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail

October 3 & 4: 45th Annual San Diego-Ensenada International Yacht Race
Over 100 yachts in various classes participate in this 62-nautical-mile race that starts at 11am in San Diego on Friday morning and officially finishes at 2pm on Saturday in Ensenada. Award presentations are on Saturday afternoon at 3pm at the Hotel San Nicolás. Info: Southwestern Yacht Club, U.S. tel. (619)222-0438.

October 4: “An Evening with José Jule” at Galería Pérez Meillón
5-9pm: Born in El Salvador, award winning Ensenada resident artist José Jule presents an exposition of his inspirational paintings accompanied by an 8pm performance of his original poetry and songs. Raise a toast with the artist at the wine and cheese reception that begins at 6pm. Jule’s paintings will be on exhibit and on sale at reduced prices from October 4-12 at Galería Pérez Meillón in Centro Artesanal, Locale #40, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) #1094 & Av. Castillo, Ensenada. For more information or to RSVP for the artist reception, contact Adalberto Pérez Meillón at (646)175-7848; e-mail

October 4 & 5: 4th Annual Entijuanarte Festival of Art in Tijuana
More than 155 Mexican and international artists participate in this open-air art show that is a fusion of border area visual and performing arts with painting, sculpture and photography exhibitions, conferences, music, dance, video-art and theatrical presentations from noon-10pm on Saturday and noon-8pm on Sunday at the Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT), Paseo de los Heroes, Zona Río, Tijuana. This year’s festival will feature Mexican modernist painter and sculptor José Luis Cuevas, one of the artists from the 1950’s Rupture Generation, who will lead a discussion open to all attendees, supported by a large format projection of his major works on the walls of the Cultural Center. Free admission. For more information contact Julio Rodríguez at cell tel. (664)674-6957; e-mail or log on to Spanish site www.entijuanarte.org

October 5: New Covenant of Grace Christian Fellowship Fundraising Concert
10am: In lieu of the regular Sunday service, Pastor Woody presents a concert of country gospel music to benefit the church’s Christmas Box Project at the New Covenant of Grace Christian Fellowship church, located near Gertrude Pearlman Theatre at Campo La Jolla in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. There is no admission fee but a donation is requested. Info: New Covenant of Grace, tel. (646)154-2601; e-mail

October 5: 3rd Annual Todos Santos International Yacht Regatta
11am: Club Náutico Baja presents a 20-nautical-mile sailing race around Todos Santos Island that starts and finishes near the entrance to the marina at Hotel Coral, three miles north of Ensenada. The awards ceremony is at 6pm at Sano’s Steak House. For registration info or to inquire about available crew space, contact Dr. Joel Velasco at Hospital Velmar at (646)173-4500, ext. 400; cell tel. (646)171-5132; e-mail

October 5, 12, 19 & 26: CEARTE Tianguis Cultural
Noon-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.

October 9: Yom Kippur

October 11: “La Raza” Eco-Cultural Festival
2-10pm: Visual arts, music, workshops and ecological activities at the Foro Experimental and Plaza de las Artes 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.

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 that features historic exhibitions, entertainment and a free barbacoa lunch. 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 12: 30th Anniversary Ensenada Seafood Fair
1-9pm: Enjoy savory seafood, wines and beers, live music, entertainment and raffles in the gardens of the Riviera Cultural Center on Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas) & Av. Club Rotario, Ensenada. This year the Ensenada Seafood Fair, the oldest in Baja, also celebrates the 50th anniversary of Mexico’s National CANIRAC Chamber of Restaurants and the 25th anniversary of Ensenada’s CANIRAC Chamber of Restaurants. For more information about the restaurant culinary competition, conferences, a sportfishing tournament and other activities to be held on October 10 & 11 in conjunction with the Seafood Fair, contact CANIRAC, tel. (646)174-0448; e-mail

October 13: Columbus Day Observed (U.S.)

October 15: Festival de Octubre 2008 Incidental Music Concert
8pm: Pianist Iván Velázquez de León Reyes performs a musical score from Fritz Lang’s 1927 science fiction movie “Metropolis” at the Teatro de la Ciudad on Av. Diamante, Ensenada. General admission is $5dlls., students $3dlls. Info & tickets: Teatro de la Cuidad box office, tel. (646)177-0392.

October 16: Festival de Octubre 2008 Formal Music Concert
8pm: Mexico City’s Cuarteto Aurora performs “El Canto del Alba,” a concert for piano, violin, viola and cello, 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. General admission is $10dlls, students $5dlls. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

October 17: Festival de Octubre 2008 “Murals Under the Stars”
8pm: Gregorio Luke projects images of works by famous Mexican muralist José Clemente Orozco in the Plaza de las Artes 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.

October 17 & 18: RECORD Off-Road Series “San Vicente 200 Off-road Race”
Cars, trucks, ATVs and motorcycles from both sides of the border compete on a challenging course in San Vicente, 50 miles south of Ensenada. Info: RECORD Off-Road Series/Ramón Castro, tel. (646)176-1637.

October 18: MTB Baja Ultra Endurance
A 100-kilometer mountain bike race through single tracks, ranch roads, hill climbs and descents (in the Ensenada area) that will put even the most fit mountain biker to the test, physically and mentally. For those who prefer to ride for fun, there is a 65-kilometer extreme ride. Entry fee is $50dlls. in advance, $70dlls. on day of race. $15,000dlls. in prizes will be awarded. Register online at www.bajadventours.net or contact Jorge Trujillo at Bajadventours, tel. (646)176-0470; e-mail

October 18 & 19: “Up From Down Under,” a One-Woman Show
Painting vivid word pictures, actress/comedienne Winifred Morice draws from her unique memories of life growing up in New Zealand, her adventures while traveling the world in her early twenties, and her life since settling in California. Enjoy her heart-warming performance on Saturday at 7pm and Sunday at 2pm at Gertrude Pearlman Theatre at Campo La Jolla in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Ticket donation is $8dlls. at the door. All proceeds benefit the Punta Banda Volunteer Fire Department. Info: Heather Hamilton, tel. (646)154-2452; e-mail

October 19: Guided Ecological Walk on the Beach
8am: Learn about local flora, fauna, the coastal environment and conservations efforts during a 3-hour, 2.7-mile walk along Todos Santos Bay from Ventana al Mar in downtown Ensenada to UABC University. Wear sun protection, bring bottled water. Free registration. For more info visit Spanish-language web site or contact Haciendo Lo Necesario, A.C., tel. (646)177-8267; e-mail

October 25-November 8: Day of the Dead Altar at Bazar Casa Ramirez
The elaborately decorated altar honoring departed family members has been a tradition for more than 15 years at Bazar Casa Ramirez on Av. Lopez Mateos 496-3 near Av. Gastelum, Ensenada. There is also an ample selection of amazing Mexican folk art inspired by Día de Muertos. Open 9am-6:30pm Mon.-Sat., 10am-6pm Sun. Info: Bazar Casa Ramirez, tel. (646)178-8209; e-mail

October 26: Daylight Saving Time Ends (Mexico)

October 27: Festival de Octubre 2008 “Show a la Cubana” Concert
8pm: Popular Cuban comedian Virulo entertains with his special brand of music, song and humor at the Teatro de la Ciudad on Av. Diamante, Ensenada. General admission is $10dlls. Info & tickets: Teatro de la Cuidad box office, tel. (646)177-0392.

October 31: Halloween

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November 2008

Thru November 7: “Itinerario de mis Estaciones (Itinerary of my Stations)” Art Exposition
An exhibition of paintings by Liz Durand at the Museo Bistro (former Goldbaum Museum), Av. Ryerson #59 between Av. López Mateos and Calle 2, Ensenada. The exposition of recent paintings by Armando Franco continues. Open noon-midnight Mon.-Sat. Info: Curator Armando Franco, cell tel. (646)151-1084; e-mail

Thru November 8: Day of the Dead Altar at Bazar Casa Ramirez
The elaborately decorated altar honoring departed family members has been a tradition for more than 15 years at Bazar Casa Ramirez on Av. Lopez Mateos 496-3 near Av. Gastelum, Ensenada. There is also an ample selection of amazing Mexican folk art inspired by Día de Muertos. Open 9am-6:30pm Mon.-Sat., 10am-6pm Sun. Info: Bazar Casa Ramirez, tel. (646)178-8209; e-mail

November 1 & 2: Day of the Dead Altar at CEARTE
A special Día de Muertos altar commemorating dead loved ones will be on display on the Plaza de las Artes 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.

November 1 & 2: Day of the Dead Celebration at Jardín Las Veredas
10am-6pm: A variety of theme activities including a Día de Muertos altar competition among local schools and artists, an exhibition of paintings and photos by local artists, wine tastings, food and beverage concessions at Jardín Las Veredas in San Antonio de las Minas. Free admission. On Sat. at 5pm and Sun. at 3pm, Compañía de Teatro Expresarte presents “El Fiestón de la Calaveras,” a spectacularly costumed theatrical performance (admission $5dlls.). Info: Jardín Las Veredas, tel. (646)155-3239; e-mail

November 1 & 2: Day of the Dead Celebration at Centro Artesanal
Noon-9pm: A Día de Muertos altar dedicated to the memory of Pancho Villa will feature the traditional petate, clay dog, zempazuchil flowers, papel picado, cross and offerings with bilingual descriptive text in the plaza of Centro Artesanal, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) #1094 & Av. Castillo, Ensenada. There will also be arts and crafts for sale, used books to buy/sell/exchange, coffee, carne asada, tequila samplings, and Mexican music. Info: Adalberto Pérez Meillón, tel. (646)175-7848; e-mail

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 2: “El Fiestón de la Calaveras,” a Play
6pm: Compañía de Teatro Expresarte presents this spectacularly costumed theatrical performance at the Foro Experimental of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. Admission is $5dlls. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

November 4: Election Day (U.S.)

November 5-8: Baja Epic Mountain Bike Race
Too Much Fun Promotions presents a four-stage event that starts in Rosarito Beach and travels east to Hacienda Santa Veronica (Tecate) on Day 1, Tecate to Ojos Negros (Ensenada) on Day 2, Valle de la Trinidad to Mike’s Sky Ranch and back, on Day 3, then Valle de Guadalupe (Ensenada) to Puerto Nuevo (Rosarito Beach) on Day 4. The 250-mile course showcases the area’s incredible diversity in terrain and includes 24,000 feet of climbing. Register at www.bajaepic.com or contact Too Much Fun Promotions, Rosarito tel. (661)612-2525 or U.S. tel. (619)819-6323.

November 8: Aleks Syntek in Concert
The acclaimed Mexican singer/songwriter performs at Salón Casa Blanca (formerly El Gran Chaparral) on Av. Reforma, Ensenada. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets priced from $30-100dlls. Info & tickets: Viajes Damiana, tel. (646)174-0170.

November 8: Alberto Cortez in Concert
8pm: The distinguished Argentine singer/composer and Grammy winner performs at the Riviera Cultural Center on Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario, Ensenada. General admission is $50dlls., VIP seating is $60dlls. Info & tickets: Viajes Kinessia, tel. (646)152-1800.

November 8 & 9: 28th Annual Mexican Surf Fiesta
Approximately 125 short board pros (and a few amateurs) from around the world compete for a cash purse of $5,000dlls. at Playas de San Miguel, Carr. Tijuana-Ensenada Km. 99, just south of the Ensenada tollgate. Competition begins daily at 7:30am. There’s live music on Saturday, finals and bikini contest on Sunday, and food and drinks sold both days. Spectators are welcome. Register online or contact Ricardo Dominguez, e-mail

November 11: Veteran’s Day (U.S.)

November 11-14: Video Fest 2K8
7:30-10pm: Showings of original short films from the Bienal Internacional de Video y Cine Contemporáneo sponsored by the Instituto de Cultura de Baja California (ICBC), 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.

November 13: Annual Punta Banda Volunteer Fire Department Christmas Dinner
4:30-6:30pm: Enjoy a baked ham dinner with soup, dessert and all the trimmings at Campo La Jolla Salon in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Donation ($10dlls.) benefits food boxes distributed by La Sociedad de Vecinos at Christmas time. Info: Barbara Leahy, tel. (646)154-2312.

November 14: Early Evening @ Mingei: Celebrate Baja California (in Balboa Park, San Diego)
6-9pm: Socialize while enjoying cultural and culinary delights including exhibits by Baja California painter Juan Angel Castillo and photographer Julio Rodríguez Ramos, music by the Orchestra of Baja California, wine tasting from Valle de Guadalupe wineries, and appetizers from Baja restaurants at the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, San Diego. Admission is $10dlls. For tickets or more information, log on to www.mingei.org or call U.S. tel. (619)239-0003, ext. 106 or e-mail

November 15: “Agustín Lara: 100 Years of his Music & Songs” Concert
8pm: Pianist Mario Lamadrid and invited soloists perform works by this legendary Mexican musician/poet 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. Admission is $5dlls. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

November 15 & 16: 11th Expo-Navidad ‘08
Noon-8pm: Club Rotario Ensenada Calafia, A.C. presents its annual Christmas bazaar with more than 50 exhibitors offering arts & crafts, holiday gifts, regional foods, raffles, live music and artistic presentations in the Salón Casino of the Riviera Cultural Center on Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario, Ensenada. Featured artists include Cristina Rendón (designer jewelry), Patty Nuñez (bonsai trees), and Zandra & Samantha Rangel (paintings, photography, textile design). Free admission. Vendor booths ($80 & $100dlls.) are available. Info: Xicotencatl Carro, tel. (646)178-7090 or (646)175-3685.

November 16: Free Pet Clinic
8am-2pm: ProMac, the local extension of the volunteer “Give Some Life Foundation ,” holds its free pet clinic every third Sunday at its new location on Calle Luis Espota #622 in Col. Aeropuerto, approximately four miles south of central Ensenada. Dr. César Aguirre and The Dog Spa provide free Ivermectin (anti-parasite) shots and spay & neuter services to pet dogs and cats over five months old. Donations appreciated. Info & directions: Eugenia León, cell tel. (646)140-8549.

November 17: Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day in Mexico) Observed

November 18: Concert of Mexican Music
8pm: Fase Vocal a cappella ensemble, Pro Música Ensenada, A.C., and the children’s choir present an evening of music honoring the Mexican Revolution at the Teatro de la Ciudad on Av. Diamante, Ensenada. Admission is $15dlls. Info or tickets: Margit Gantt, tel. (646)174-7969; e-mail

November 19: 11th Annual Baja 1000 Autograph Signing Fiesta
Noon-10pm: Meet and get autographs from dozens of top racers and numerous racing teams from Mexico, United States, Italy, Germany, Spain and other countries at this family-oriented event featuring Trophy-Truck, motorcycle and race car exhibitions, off-road products and souvenirs, music, food and 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

November 19: Meet Baja 1000 Pro Driver Will Higman
2-3pm: Meet Will Higman, Baja 1000 professional driver from the “Pedos Viejos” Race Team, and see the AutoZone Slime Croc Off-Road Race Car at AutoZone, south of Ensenada near Calimax Supermarket on Highway 1. Receive signed posters and stickers! Be among the first 50 fans and obtain a “Fear The Croc” off-road racing dvd. Info: AutoZone, tel. (646)182-9225.

November 19-23: 41st Anniversary Tecate SCORE Baja 1000
The legendary desert race in which more than 350 cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATVs from 37 U.S. states and more than a dozen countries traverse 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 Wednesday, November 19, racer registration starts at 1pm at the Hotel San Nicolás. On Thursday, November 20, the pre-race contingency and tech inspection take place on the boulevard in front of the Riviera from 10am-6pm. On Friday, November 21, motorcycles and ATVs start the race at 6:30am, followed by trucks and cars at approximately 10:30am. Starters have a 31-hour time period to officially finish the 634-mile race. On Sunday, November 23, award presentations are poolside at 10am at Ensenada’s Hotel San Nicolás. Info: SCORE International, U.S. tel. (818)225-8402.

November 20: Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day in Mexico)

November 20: “Baja California Masters” Art Exhibit in San Diego, CA
6:30-8pm: As part of its 25th anniversary celebration, the Institute of the Americas will display the paintings of Baja California Masters such as Ruben Garcia Benavides, Ramón Carillo, Juan Angel Castillo, Francisco Merino, Manuel Aguilar, Alvaro Blancarte, and Roberto Rosique. The paintings, on loan from Gallery Eclipse of Rancho Santa Fe, reflect a unique period in the history of the Californias. The free event is open to the public at the Institute of the Americas Weaver Conference Center on the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) campus. For info and registration visit www.iamericas.org or call the Institute of the Americas, U.S. tel. (858)453-5560.

November 23: Medieval Night
6pm: Music, poetry, performance art and an exposition of armor and dragons 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.

November 27: Thanksgiving Day (U.S.)

November 28: Concert of Traditional Serenades
8pm: The Rondalla Universitaria de Todos Santos of the UABC School of Arts and invited guests like the Rondalla del Puerto of CETYS, Mario Reguera, Luis Salazar and the Gerardo Reynoso Ensemble perform traditional Mexican music at Teatro Universitario Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $10dlls. Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail

November 29: Tango and Boleros
7:30pm: Directed by Ara Ghukasyan, the choral group of the UABC School of Arts performs at Teatro Universitario Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $8dlls. Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail

November 30: 4 Patas Pet Adoption Campaign
10am-5pm: 4 Patas A.C., a nonprofit animal protection association, seeks good homes for healthy, affectionate puppies, young dogs and cats that have been abandoned or rescued from the streets. Meet your potential new pet at Parque Ignacio Zaragoza on Calle 7 between Av. Guadalupe & Av. Hidalgo in Col. Obrera, Ensenada. There is no fee for adoption but there is a small charge to cover costs of vaccination and anti-parasite medicine. Info: 4 Patas, tel. (646)174-1628 or (646)178-0988; e-mail

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December 2008

Thru December 15: “Riverside Views (Vistas de Riverside)” Sister City Art Exposition
Organized by the Riverside Community Arts Association (RCAA), Riverside Art Museum (RAM) and Ensenada’s Casa de la Cultura, this multi media cultural exchange exhibition features 25 works by twenty regional Riverside, CA artists and five Riverside high school students in the Galería Elizabeth Malvaez of the Casa de la Cultura in the northern end of the Riviera Cultural Center, Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cardenas), Ensenada. The November 12 inauguration at 7pm is open to the public. Gallery hours: 9am-7pm Mon.-Fri., closed Sat. & Sun. Free admission. Info: Casa de la Cultura, tel/fax (646)176-3786 or Riverside Community Arts Association, U.S. tel. (951)682-6737; e-mail

Thru December 27: “Granitos de Arena (Grains of Sand)” Art Exposition
A collective exhibition of paintings by Tijuana artist Claudia Star and Ensenada artists Nancy Ordoñez, Armando Franco, Eduardo Tello and Arturo Ponce in the CUT Gallery on the Ensenada campus of the Universidad de Tijuana, Calle Playa Alta #260, Col. Pedregal Playitas, Ensenada. The November 28 artist reception at 11am is open to the public. Gallery hours: 9am-2pm & 4-7pm Mon.-Fri., 9am-1pm Sat., closed Sun. Free admission. Info: Gema Gonzales, tel. (646)175-2027.

Thru December 31: Art & Stuff Group Show
A collective exposition featuring impressionistic works by Francisco Merino, unique folk/fantasy pieces by Señora Q, and realistic/impressionistic oil paintings by Diane Barnes at Art & Stuff Gallery (above Ophelia’s Restaurant and next to Casa Natalie Hotel), 5 miles north of Ensenada at Carr. Tijuana-Ensenada Km. 103 in El Sauzal. Gallery hours: 9:30am-6pm, closed Tues. Free admission. Info: Art & Stuff, tel. (646)175-8859 or U.S. tel. (949)202-5321; e-mail

Thru January 4: COSTA Photography Exposition
A collective exhibition by university students in the vestibule of the Foro Experimental of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The November 12 inauguration at 10:30am is open to the public. Exhibition hours: 8am-5pm Mon.-Fri. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

Thru January 5: Batik Exposition
In homage to late Ensenada artist Xipe Martínez Zamora, two dozen of his creative batiks are displayed in the lobby of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The November 21 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 January 15: Art Exchange “Building Bridges” Mexico/USA 2008/2009
Sponsored by the Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles, this exposition features 39 original paintings and sculptures by 15 international artists from ten countries represented by Artdecollectors Contemporary Art Gallery in Los Angeles, CA. View the culturally diverse works of art in the Sala Internacional of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The October 31 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 January 24: “El Performance de Diario (The Daily Performance)” Photography Exposition
An exhibition of digital images by Ensenada photographer Damian Siqueiros 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 November 11 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 January 30: “Hombre Ballena (Whale Man)” Sculpture Exposition
Ensenada artist Alfonso Arámbula’s new 13-foot-tall sculpture constructed from whale bones, rock and steel is on display on the plaza of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes (CEARTE) on the corner of Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Club Rotario. The November 19 inauguration is open to the public. Free admission. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

December 1: World AIDS Day

December 1: Mauricio Náder Piano Concert
8pm: Internationally acclaimed Mexican pianist Mauricio Náder performs at Teatro Universitario Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $20dlls., students & teachers $10dlls. Info: Centro de Estudios Musicales de la UABC and the UABC School of Arts, tels. (646)175-2386, (646)176-3005 or (646)177-2090.

December 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29: Martin Scorsese Film Series
7pm: The Monday Night Cine Club of Ensenada’s Centro Estatal de las Artes presents a series of films by this Academy Award winning American director, writer and producer. The free showings of “Mean Streets” (1973) on December 1, “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” (1974) on December 8, “Taxi Driver” (1976) on December 15, “Raging Bull” (1980) on December 22, and “Goodfellas” (1990) on December 29 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. This month’s films are in English with Spanish subtitles. Info: CEARTE, tels. (646)173-4307 & (646)173-4308.

December 4: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 (Eroica)
7:30pm: Directed by Ernesto Rosas, pianist Santos Cota and the Orquesta del Centro de Estudios Musicales (OCEM) de la Escuela de Artes perform at Teatro Universitario Benito Juárez, Av. Guadalupe between Calles 2 & 4, Ensenada. General admission is $5dlls. Info: Cirilo Liera Murillo, UABC School of Arts, tel. (646)176-3005 or (646)177-1195; e-mail

December 6: Club Compañeros de Baja Norte Annual Christmas Boutique & Sale
11am-4pm: Jewelry, ceramics, homemade cookies in festive boxes, handmade items and other gifts are offered at the clubhouse on Calle Mazatlán #256 in Fracc. Acapulco, one mile south of Ensenada. Vendor table rental now available for $10dlls. Info: Joan Martino, tel. (646)177-5436; e-mail

December 6 & 7: GPT Annual Holiday Show
2pm: Come join the fun as talented community members celebrate the holiday season with musical and dance performances at Gertrude Pearlman Theatre at Campo La Jolla in Punta Banda, 16 miles south of Ensenada. Admission to this family-oriented variety show is free. Info: Heather Hamilton, tel. (646)154-2452; e-mail

December 9: 2nd Annual Christmas Festival at Ventana al Mar
4pm: The orchestra and children’s choirs of the Centro de Estudios Musicales (CEM) perform at Plaza Ventana al Mar on the waterfront at the giant flagpole near Blvd. Costero & Alvarado, Ensenada. Free admission. Info: API, tel. (646)178-2680; e-mail

December 11: Annual C.A.M.E Christmas Breakfast
9am: Fundraising breakfast with door prizes and a Christmas bazaar at Restaurant El Cid, Av. Lopez Mateos #993, Ensenada. Proceeds benefit C.A.M.E. Center for Abused Women. Ticket ($12.50dlls. donation) available at the door or through Margit Gantt, tel. (646)174-7969; e-mail

December 12: Día de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (Our Lady of Guadalupe Day in Mexico)

December 12: Fernando Medina ICTUS in Concert
9pm: Popular Nueva Trova musician/songwriter Fernando Medina from Mexico City performs his songs of socio-protest at the Jazz Cafe, Av. Lopez Mateos #688 near Av. Macheros, Ensenada. Admission charge. Tickets & info: Jazz Cafe, tel. (646)178-1491 or cell tel. (646)947-5721; e-mail

December 12-14: Bandido’s Race Ready Ensenada-San Felipe 275 Off-Road Race
More than 200 cars, trucks, ATVs and motorcycles from both sides of the border compete in a challenging off-road event that is the last in the 2008 RECORD Off-Road Series. On Friday, tech inspection is from 4-10pm in Ensenada on Av. Ruiz or at Pueblo Antiguo. On Saturday, motorcycles and ATVs take off at 6:30am in Ojos Negros, followed by four-wheel vehicles one hour after the last bike. On Sunday, award presentations are at 1pm at Bandido’s Bar, located across from the Tourism Office on Av. Mar de Cortez in San Felipe. Info: RECORD Off-Road Series/Ramón Castro, tel. (646)176-1637.

December 13 & 14: “El Cascanueces (The Nutcracker)”
6pm: The Escuela Cubana de Balet performs this holiday favorite at the Teatro de la Ciudad on Av. Diamante, Ensenada. General admission is $12.50dlls. Info & tickets: Teatro de la Cuidad box office, tel. (646)177-0392.

December 14: 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

December 16: 12th Annual Traditional Mexican Posada
5pm: A traditional Mexican Christmas celebration for the entire family at Centro Artesanal on Blvd. Costero (Lázaro Cárdenas) & Av. Castillo, Ensenada. Enjoy live Latin music, seasonal foods and drinks (buñuelos, tamales, champurrado, pozole, etc.), an arts and crafts fair, and a 6pm candlelight procession with litanies followed by a piñata breaking party and more live music. Free admission. Info: Adalberto Pérez Meillón, cell tel. (646)171-6127; e-mail

December 22: First Day of Hannukah

December 25: Christmas Day

December 26: First Day of Kwanzaa

December 26-March 2009: 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 or consult the Baja California State Tourism Secretariat at (646) 172-5444.

December 31: New Year’s Eve

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