Bisbee’s Announces Dates for Another Year of Fishing Tournament Glory

The calendar window for Cabo San Lucas’ fishing tournament season comprises only about six months–from mid-June through mid-November–but like the area’s spectacular big-game fishing itself, the tournament news breaks all year-round.

Bisbee’s, the organizer of Cabo’s most famous trio fishing tournaments, has announced its schedule for 2019, as well as some changes aimed to maximize fun, fishing and efficiency at one particular event.

But first, the most important information. Bisbee’s schedule for 2019 is as follows:  the East Cape Offshore kick-starts the season August 1st to 4th; the charity focused Los Cabos Offshore takes place October 17th to 20th; and the big daddy of them all, the millionaire making Black & Blue, is scheduled for October 22nd to 26th.

Experienced tournament anglers will also be interested in the early bird registration deadlines, since those who make this registration cut are entered in a drawing to win free entry in the following year’s tournament. The early bird deadline for the 2019 ECO is June 30th; for the LCO and B&B, August 31.

The first tournament up, this season as always, is the East Cape Offshore in August. The ECO sees the only changes Bisbee’s has so far announced for this year’s tournaments, with only two days of fishing rather than the traditional three. The change was made to drive participation (and thus prize money), as well as making the tournament trip easier for Cabo San Lucas based boats, as the latter now shouldn’t have to refuel before heading home. Since the schedule says Aug. 1 – 4, that means the first day is dedicated to registration, then two days of solid fishing before the awards ceremony on the final day.

Everything else about the ECO remains basically the same. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three qualifiers in marlin, tuna and dorado categories, with the awards celebration taking place afterwards at the Hotel Buena Vista. Base entry for the event is $1500 per team, with an across-the-board ante of $22,500 to qualify for all daily jackpots. Prize money is based on entry fees received, with 60% going to the billfish winners, and 20% each to top tuna and dorado anglers.

As for what’s at stake, last year’s ECO saw the record set for most prize money in the history of the tournament ($657,125), as well as a record tying 11 teams sharing in the prize payouts.

The Los Cabos Offshore returns October 17th, and kicks off the biggest nine days of the year on the Cabo San Lucas sporting calendar. Long known as “Little Bisbee’s” to differentiate it from the Black & Blue, or “Big Bisbee’s”, the LCO really isn’t so little anymore. The 2018 edition saw a record prize money payout of $1,165,000, making it the 8th fishing tournament in the world to top the million mark. The charity focused tournament also lived up to its billing in that regard, donating over a ton of fish caught during the four-day event, or an estimated 8,607 meals to local families. Registration remains $1,500 base entry, $22,500 across-the-board.

This year’s Black & Blue is slated to take place October 22nd to 26th, with registration on the first day, an awards ceremony on the last, and three days of fishing in between. Those visiting the Land’s End city during the event can watch daily drama as fish are weighed on the marina boardwalk in front of Puerto Paraiso. The drama is a little more intense, however, if you happen to be the one who caught the fish! Registration remains $5,000 per team, or $71,500 across the board for all jackpots and challenges.

The 2018 B&B saw a San Diego angler named Charlie Lee and his Chinito Bonito team earn a ridiculous $3,004,900 for hooking a 510 lb. black marlin. It was the second largest payout in big-game sportfishing history.

Of course, that’s why they call the Black & Blue “the world’s richest fishing tournament.”

Staggering as it seems, 2019 looks to be even better, and should break records all over again.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Bisbee’s Offshore Fishing Tournaments

Upcoming Event Calendar

January 2019

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 10 – 20

Los Cabos Pro-Am at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 14 – 18

La Ventana Classic (Kiteboard and Windsurfing Tournament) – Jan. 16 – 20

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 2 – 9

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 9 – 10

Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day) – Feb. 14

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 15 – 16

20th Baja Hog Rally – Feb. 20 – 24

Carnaval La Paz – Feb. 28 – Mar. 5

March

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia – March 3 – 5

Carnaval La Paz – Feb. 28 – March 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – March 6, 13, 20, 27

Baja Shakespeare Festival – March 8 – 10, 13 – 16

Traditional Fiestas in San Jose del Cabo – Dates Yet to Be Determined

End of Whale Watching Season – March 15

East Cape Arts Festival – March 17

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Yet to Be Determined

7th Annual Cheese & Wine Festival at Sheraton Grand Los Cabos – Dates Yet to Be Determined

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – April 4, 11, 18, 25

NORRA Mexican 1000 – April 26 – May 3

Paws n’ Claws Golf Tournament – Dates Yet to Be Determined

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Yet to Be Determined

May

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

La Paz Foundation Festival – Dates Yet to Be Determined

El Dia de la Madre (Mother’s Day) – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival in Todos Santos – May 17 – 19

June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – June 6, 13, 20, 27

Cabo Summer Slam Fishing Tournament – Dates Yet to Be Determined

Los Cabos Open of Surf – June 11 – 16

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Dates Yet to Be Determined

Stars & Stripes Golf & Fishing Tournament – June 27 – 30

July

Mifel Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 29 – Aug. 3

August

Mifel Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 29 – Aug. 3

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Tournament – Aug. 1 – 4

September

Día de la Independencia (Mexican Independence Day) – Sep. 16

October

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Tournament – Oct. 17 – 20

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Tournament – Oct. 22 – 26

November

21s WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 6 – 9

52nd Annual Baja 1000 – Nov. 19 – 24

December

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

Recently Reopened Cabo San Lucas Country Club Golf Course Showcases A New Look

For all of its golfing glories–which now include three of the world’s 100 best courses and championship-level layouts from legendary names like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods–Los Cabos has only one course that features views of El Arco and the evocative granite monuments that comprise the Land’s End headland at the southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula. That’s the Cabo San Lucas Country Club, which originally opened in 1994 during the first wave of the Los Cabos golf boom, but has recently been given a major renovation by acclaimed Mexican golf course architect Agustin Piza.

The reason for the remodel wasn’t so much the age or difficulty level of the course, although both were addressed, but rather the extensive damage done by Tropical Storm Lidia in 2017.

“We needed to demonstrate to visitors and the community that Cabo San Lucas Country Club was not wiped out by Tropical Storm Lidia in September, 2017,” said club project manager Alfonso Terrazas Ceseña. “We were hurt (by torrential rains), but the damage was superficial and certainly not catastrophic. We’ve bounced back as part of a five-month renovation project, and I believe we’ve succeeded in restoring confidence and credibility in the club.”

The new look Cabo San Lucas Country Club still retains its parkland-style charms, stretching to 6,852 yards (par 71) from the black tees, and comparing favorably to golf courses in Palm Springs, California. Gently rolling fairways girdled by waste bunkers, cardon cactus, palo blanco trees and colorful bougainvillea characterize the new layout. Tall stony mountains frame the course to the north. Lakes bring water into play at seven holes, notably at the testing par-4 ninth and 18th holes, where a large rock-rimmed lagoon protects each green.

Agustin Piza, a Mexican designer who has worked extensively throughout Latin America, altered several holes to improve sightlines and enhance playability. In particular, the club’s back nine was shortened and its corridors widened to expand the layout’s ocean views. The new and revised holes feature improved flexibility from the forward tees, better risk-reward scenarios from the back tees, and more undulating greens. Bunkers throughout the course were reshaped and upgraded. Pruning of trees and vegetation has created a breezier, links-style environment. The club, readily accessible by area hotels and cruise ship passengers, also features the only lighted driving range in Los Cabos.

In the wake of the remedial work by Piza, holes one through seven remain the same, while the par-3 eighth and par-4 ninth holes were swapped for the par-3 17th and par-4 18th holes, respectively.

The most noticeable changes are found on the back nine, specifically holes 10 through 16. The par-4 10th plays from the same set of tee boxes as the original hole, but a friendlier green closer to the tees enables average players to reach it in regulation. The par-3 11th is a new creation that plays to the site of the old 12th green, which Piza refashioned into a large, wavy putting surface. The 12th hole was converted from a brawny par 4 to a sporty par 5, while the par-4 13th occupies the original hole’s corridor but plays to a remodeled green. The par-3 14th, stretching to 208 yards, brings a lake into play on the right. At the par-5 16th, Piza reversed the direction of the hole. The fairway, pointed to the Sea of Cortes, now runs from north to south.

The latest changes are part of the long history and lore of the scenically situated course. Originally the dream of an East Coast developer named Ed Reisdorf, who visualized the course during a cruise ship visit to Cabo San Lucas nearly 30 years ago, what was first called the Campo de Carlos Golf & Country Club premiered in 1994 with a layout from acclaimed designer Roy Dye, with an assist from his son Matt.

Roy Dye was the brother of famed course architect Pete Dye, whose many designs include the TPC at Sawgrass, and a respected course designer in his own right. Reisdorf hired him because the Denver-based Dye Corporation was said to have built more courses that hosted PGA tournaments than any other.

“This is a dream site,” said the elder Dye at the time. “It’s got natural slope and great views of the ocean.”

A quarter century and many changes later, both statements still hold true.

 For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Cabo San Lucas Country Club

Upcoming Event Calendar

December

Sabor a Cabo Food & Wine Festival – Dec. 1

Dressed to the K-9s Charity Gala – Dec. 1

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27

Virgin of Guadalupe Feast Day – Dec. 12

Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Día de los Inocentes – Dec. 28

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January 2019

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 10 – 20

Los Cabos Pro-Am at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 14 – 18

La Ventana Classic (Kiteboard and Windsurfing Tournament) – Jan. 16 – 20

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 2 – 9

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 9 – 10

Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day) – Feb. 14

Carnaval La Paz – Feb. 28 – Mar. 5

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend

March

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia – March 3 – 5

Carnaval La Paz – Feb. 28 – March 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – March 6, 13, 20, 27

Baja Shakespeare Festival – March 8 – 10, 13 – 16

End of Whale Watching Season – March 15

East Cape Arts Festival – March 17

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Yet to Be Determined

7th Annual Cheese & Wine Festival at Sheraton Grand Los Cabos – Dates Yet to Be Determined

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – April 4, 11, 18, 25

NORRA Mexican 1000 – April 26 – May 3

Paws n’ Claws Golf Tournament – Dates Yet to Be Determined

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Yet to Be Determined

 May

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival in Todos Santos – May 17 – 19

 June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – June 6, 13, 20, 27

The Holidays Are Happening – December Events in Los Cabos

The biggest December event in Los Cabos is of course Christmas, and visitors to cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are annually treated to a colorful array of seasonal decorations in the respective downtown areas, from tinsel-wrapped Christmas trees to carefully arranged public nativity scenes.

But holiday-themed events like Posadas and Christmas dinners aren’t the only headline attractions. Several other notable to-dos, from food and wine fêtes to cultural celebrations, should also be circled on the December calendar.

Here are five of our favorites.

Dressed to the K9s Charity Gala (Dec. 1)

Two of Los Cabos’ most anticipated annual events are sponsored by the Los Cabos Humane Society, with proceeds going to spay and neuter programs, as well as other pet-related causes: the Paws n’ Claws Golf Tournament each April, and the Dressed to the K9s Gala each December. The latter offers one of the few social occasions in which locals and seasonal residents can get dressed to the “9s” and dance the night away in elegant surroundings. This year’s theme is Glitz & Glam, and Sheraton’s luxurious Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar has once again volunteered for hosting duties. The event, scheduled for Dec. 1, will include a cocktail reception with martini bars, plus a gourmet dinner, and of course live entertainment and dancing. Special room rates are reserved at the resort for visiting attendees.

Sabor a Cabo International Food & Wine Festival (Dec. 1)

The biggest food and wine festival in Los Cabos, indeed one of the largest in Mexico – the 13th annual Sabor a Cabo (or Taste of Cabo)–returns Dec. 1 to Quivira in Cabo San Lucas. The event, which is sponsored by the Los Cabos restaurant association (CANIRAC), brings together over 50 top local and international chefs, as well as representatives from over two dozen wineries for an over-the-top extravaganza of eating, drinking and live entertainment. Past performers at Sabor a Cabo have included legendary R&B band Earth, Wind & Fire, Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter Lila Downs, and Mexican rock group Mana–the best-selling Latin American band of all-time, with over 40 million albums sold. This year’s headliner is Miguel Bose, a Panamanian-born pop new wave musician.

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo (Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27)

The historic Distrito del Arte in San Jose del Cabo takes center stage each Thursday evening during high tourist season–November through June–when residents and visitors alike are invited to stroll its cobblestone streets and peruse the many eclectic fine arts galleries. Art Walk hours are 5 to 9 p.m, when the neighborhood comes alive with wine, cheese and guided tours, as well as colorful street artists and strolling mariachis. A chance to check out San Jose’s annual Christmas decorations, including the enormous Christmas tree in Plaza Mijares, is another reason to make the Thursday night pilgrimage.

Whale Watching (Dec. 15)

Each winter some 5,000 to 10,000 blue, gray, humpback and other whales migrate from their arctic feeding grounds to breed in the shallow water coves and inlets of beautiful Baja California Sur. In this regard these leviathans of the deep are very much like the snowbirds who flock to cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo to escape frigid winter temperatures in the U.S. and Canada. The only real difference–aside from the obvious anatomical ones–is one of scale. The longest mammalian migration ever recorded was in 2014-2015, when a gray whale dubbed Varvara traveled over 14,000 miles round-trip from Russia to Cabo San Lucas. The whale watching season in Los Cabos kicks off officially on Dec. 15, with tours offered by virtually all local activities companies.

New Year’s Eve in Los Cabos (Dec. 31)

Fireworks are practically a daily occurrence in Mexico, but the show of the year–at least in Cabo San Lucas–takes places over Medano Beach at midnight on New Year’s Eve. It’s an extended medley of spectacular sights, sounds and colors, and one that typically leaves viewers breathless afterwards. No surprise then that the fireworks show provides the headline attraction for many local New Year’s Eve parties, which not coincidentally tend to be held on or near Medano Beach. Luxurious beachfront Casa Dorada Resort & Spa hosts perhaps the most notable of these local New Year’s Eve events. Last year’s celebration featured a “Gatsby” theme, with vintage 1920s era costumes and flapper-friendly festivities that included an open bar and deluxe buffet from the resort’s 12 Tribes restaurant, as well as live music and up-close views of the spectacular fireworks show. Over 500 festive partygoers are expected again this year to ring in the New Year, although the theme has not yet been announced.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

  • Chris Sands is co-founder of CaboVivo, co-writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook, Editor at Baja.Ca, and a contributor to Forbes, USA Today and Cabo Living, as well as other websites and publications. 

Photo credit:  Adam Jones/Wikimedia Commons

Upcoming Event Calendar

December

Sabor a Cabo Food & Wine Festival – Dec. 1

Dressed to the K-9s Charity Gala – Dec. 1

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27

Virgin of Guadalupe Feast Day – Dec. 12

Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Día de los Inocentes – Dec. 28

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January 2019

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 10 – 20

Los Cabos Pro-Am at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 14 – 18

La Ventana Classic (Kiteboard and Windsurfing Tournament) – Jan. 16 – 20

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 2 – 9

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 9 – 10

Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day) – Feb. 14

Carnaval La Paz – Feb. 28 – Mar. 5

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend

March

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia – March 3 – 5

Carnaval La Paz – Feb. 28 – March 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – March 6, 13, 20, 27

Baja Shakespeare Festival – March 8 – 10, 13 – 16

End of Whale Watching Season – March 15

East Cape Arts Festival – March 17

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Yet to Be Determined

7th Annual Cheese & Wine Festival at Sheraton Grand Los Cabos – Dates Yet to Be Determined

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – April 4, 11, 18, 25

NORRA Mexican 1000 – April 26 – May 3

Paws n’ Claws Golf Tournament – Dates Yet to Be Determined

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Yet to Be Determined

 May

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival in Todos Santos – May 17 – 19

 June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – June 6, 13, 20, 27

Not-So-Still Life – Looking Forward to A New Season of Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo

The still life is a traditional staple of representational painting, a long-lived genre that allows artists to showcase their own inimitable style as they tackle rather commonplace subject matter like fruit or flowers.

Visitors to San Jose del Cabo will discover the colonial style city – whose name, along with that of sister city Cabo San Lucas, contributes to the Los Cabos moniker used for the municipality at large – is awash in talented painters. But despite its surfeit of artists, many of whom have their own still lifes on display in the historic, gallery-rich Art District, the city’s most famous art work isn’t a painting at all, but rather the Art Walk held weekly during the high tourist season.

Think of it as the not-so-still-life.

Each Thursday evening from November to June, art lovers and those seeking a bit of local color pour into the city, not only flooding the officially designated Distrito del Arte – with its voluminous galleries and charming cobblestone streets – but the better part of the historic downtown area between the hours of 5 and 9 p.m.

Galleries stay open late to publicize featured paintings, sculptures and other artworks; downtown monuments like City Hall and Parroquia San Jose are outlined by colorful lights; arts and crafts makers spread out their wares on tables or along the sidewalks; and wandering musicians serenade passersby strolling hand in hand, or those taking a breather at local bars and restaurants.

There are plenty of both, by the way. San Jose del Cabo is home to the original Baja Brewing Company and dozens of superb restaurants, from Mexican traditionalists like Jazmin’s and La Lupita to internationally representative eateries like La Dolce. But the true Thursday night magnets are the galleries which line the well-lit streets of the historic Art District. There’s Galeria de Ida Victoria, which in addition to hosting the region’s finest custom framing studio, also represents some of the finest contemporary Mexican artists. Patricia Mendoza Gallery and Casa Dahlia also spotlight the work of contemporary Mexican artists and artisans; traditional Mexican folk art like glassware and jewelry is on display at La Sacristia; and Mata Ortiz Gallery offers some wonderful examples of its namesake pottery style, whose history dates back over a thousand years but was reinvigorated by modern Chihuahua master Juan Quezada. Those with a more international orientation, meanwhile, can ponder the “sacred abstract art” at Dharmesh Anand, or be awestruck by Muvezi’s visually arresting work from Shona stone sculptors in Zimbabwe.

These and other galleries gladly welcome perambulators to experience the city’s thriving art scene (only Tijuana and Todos Santos rival San José as Baja art meccas), keeping their doors open well after dark, and often inviting artists to interact with guests and answer questions about their work. Cheese and wine, of course, often make their inevitable appearances as well; sip and snack staples in any bohemian milieu.

All in all, it’s a complete feast for the senses, and the 2018-2019 Art Walk season promises to be the biggest and best yet, with a fresh slate of exhibitions and fresh new looks at San Jose’s dramatic downtown makeover.

Now is a good time to clear a spot on your upcoming calendar, as the traditional seasonal kick-off – the first Thursday of November – is only three weeks away. And as always, the start of Art Walk season is celebrated contemporaneously with Day of the Dead remembrances across Mexico, so visitors can look forward to seeing personalized altars and other Day of the Dead specific symbols (from candy skulls to Catrina figures), as well as the latest works from top local artists.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

 Chris Sands is co-founder of CaboVivo, co-writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook, Editor at Baja.Ca, and a contributor to Forbes, USA Today and Cabo Living, as well as other websites and publications. 

Photo credit: ArtCabo.com.

Keywords:  Art Walk, San Jose del Cabo, art in Cabo, events in Cabo, culture in Cabo, things to do in Cabo,

Upcoming Event Calendar

September

Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) – Sep. 16

October

Sammy Hagar Birthday Bashes at Cabo Wabo Cantina – Oct. 9, 11, 13

San Jose del Cabo Restaurant Week – Oct. 13 – 20

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 14 – 18

Fiestas Patronales (Patron Saint Festival) in Cabo San Lucas – TBD

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 18 – 21

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 23 – 27

25th Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Oct. 28 – Nov. 10

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Life Luxe Jazz Experience at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica – Nov. 1 – 4

Cruising for the Critters (Humane Society Fundraiser) – Nov. 3

IRONMAN 70.3 Latin American Tri Club Championship – Nov. 4

Adidas Golf Invitational at Cabo del Sol – Nov. 6 – 11

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 7 – 10

Los Cabos International Film Festival – Nov. 7 – 11

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 14 – 18

Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day) – Nov. 20

Día de Acción de Gracias (Thanksgiving) – Nov. 22

 December

Sabor a Cabo Food & Wine Festival – Dec. 1

Dressed to the K-9s Charity Gala – Dec. 1

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27

Virgin of Guadalupe Feast Day – Dec. 12

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Día de los Inocentes – Dec. 28

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January 2019

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 10 – 20

Los Cabos Pro-Am at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 14 – 18

La Ventana Classic (Kiteboard and Windsurfing Tournament) – Jan. 16 – 20

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 2 – 9

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 9 – 10

Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day) – Feb. 14

Carnaval La Paz – Feb. 28 – Mar. 5

March

Carnaval La Paz – Feb. 28 – Mar. 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – March 6, 13, 20, 27

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia – March 3 – 5

Adidas Golf Invitational Tees It Up in Los Cabos This November

If you’re a golfer, or indeed a sports enthusiast of any kind, you know the name Adidas. The Germany based shoe and clothing company is the largest sportswear manufacturer in Europe̶ –indeed, one of the largest in the world–with an athlete sponsorship roster that includes golf professionals like Sergio Garcia, Dustin Johnson, Justin Rose and Paula Creamer.

Of course, in addition to sponsoring athletes, Adidas also sponsors sporting events. Like the Adidas Golf Invitational, for example, which tees it up in Los Cabos this November.

If you’re a Los Cabos based golfer, or indeed anyone who visits the area regularly, you probably know about this tournament. Just not by this name.

Formerly the TaylorMade Invitational, and more recently the Jim Flick Invitational–when it was named in honor of Jim Flick, a PGA professional and golf instructor who during a half-century long career taught golf in 23 countries and worked with pros like Tom Lehman and Jack Nicklaus–this annual competition is actually one of the longest running and most prestigious golf tournaments in Los Cabos.

And just to be clear: Adidas has been on board from the very beginning. The company acquired TaylorMade in 1997, just before the initial tournament in Los Cabos. This is just the first year Adidas has put their name in the title.

Despite the multiple name changes over the years, the tournament format has remained fairly consistent: a prom-am setup with the pros competing over 72-holes of stroke play ($100,000 is on the line in 2018), and foursomes (featuring one professional and three amateurs) battling in handicap-adjusted best ball play for prizes and glory.

Cabo del Sol’s Ocean and Desert Courses once again provide the backdrop, and a spectacular one at that. The Jack Nicklaus’ designed Ocean Course has been showered with accolades since it opened in 1994. Ranked in the top 100 in the world for 15 years running by GOLF Magazine, the Ocean Course hugs the coastline, offering stunning mountain, desert and Sea of Cortez views before concluding with what Nicklaus himself has called “the three finest finishing holes in golf.”

Although lacking the same accolades as its Ocean neighbor, Tom Weiskopf’s Desert loop also offers an unforgettable golfing experience, and is certainly worthy of sharing the Cabo del Sol imprimatur.  The scenically sculpted layout is currently rated as the 6th best course in Mexico, and was included among Golf Week’s 50 top courses in Mexico and the Caribbean for 2017.

Given the world-class conditions, it’s easy to see why Adidas refers to the tournament week as “the best week of the year.”

The 2018 Adidas Golf Invitational is scheduled for November 6 – 11, and will build on the momentum of recent outings with a new Tuesday Shoot-Out, an alternate shot competition featuring an additional $7,500 purse for the pros.

For those handicapping the event, the 2016 Jim Flick Invitational was won by Michael Block; and in the team category by the foursome of Jason Marciniec, Alan Marthinsen, Chris Raftis and Bill Sarris. Kramer Hickok triumphed in 2o17, with a 20 under par score that included a blazing 66 in the final round. He bested the defending champion, Block, by five strokes, and another former champion, Bob Sowards, by six. Block redeemed himself, however, with a share of the team title, assisted by Adam Hopp, Rich Rutherford and Robert Jackson.

Jack Nicklaus was honored with the first ever Jim Flick Trophy in 2016, an appropriate selection given the relationship between Nicklaus and Flick–they founded the Nicklaus-Flick Golf Schools together–as well as Nicklaus’ unrivaled status as 18-time major champion, and his contributions to Los Cabos golf.

Nicklaus effectively put Los Cabos on the golfing map in the early 1990s with spectacular layouts at Palmilla, Eldorado and Cabo del Sol; and has since built upon this legacy with the magnificent Quivira, challenging Campestre, and a newly completed 18-hole course at Puerto Los Cabos. His son Jackie accepted the trophy on his behalf.

91-year-old Bob Toski, a long-time golf pro and instructor, received the Jim Flick Trophy in 2017. There’s no word as yet on the honoree for 2018, but the tournament will continue its relationship with the Military Warriors Support Foundation, again helping to raise money to provide a combat wounded veteran a mortgage free home.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com .

Photo courtesy of the Jim Flick Invitational.

Upcoming Event Calendar

August

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 30 – Aug. 4

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Jul. 31 – Aug. 4

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 25

September

Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) – Sep. 16

October

Sammy Hagar Birthday Bashes at Cabo Wabo Cantina – Oct. 9, 11, 13

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 14 – 18

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 18 – 21

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 23 – 27

25th Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Oct. 28 – Nov. 10

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Life Luxe Jazz Experience at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica – Nov. 1 – 4

IRONMAN 70.3 Latin American Tri Club Championship – Nov. 4

Adidas Golf Invitational at Cabo del Sol – Nov. 6 – 11

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 7 – 10

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 14 – 18

Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day) – Nov. 20

Día de Acción de Gracias (Thanksgiving) – Nov. 22

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27

Virgin of Guadalupe Feast Day – Dec. 12

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January 2019

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

Los Cabos Pro-Am at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 14 – 18

February

Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day) – Feb. 14

March

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia – March 3 – 5

 

Need a New Car? Win a Summer Fishing Tournament on Los Cabos’ Beautiful East Cape

There’s never a bad time for a new ride. Maybe you’ve been thinking about a nice all-purpose vehicle, something equally at home in the city and country, useful for both work and play, perfect for family outings and date nights. Perhaps a crossover along the lines of a sporty 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan 5-door SUV, or a 2018 Volkswagen Amarok pickup truck with double-wishbone suspension.

Well, you could head down to your local Volkswagen dealership, but that would be expensive and probably involve a lot of time consuming paperwork.  We recommend heading to the Los Cabos municipality’s gorgeous East Cape instead, where you can spend a few sunny days fishing for trophy-sized wahoo and dorado, and stand a pretty good chance of winning a boatload of cash and a brand new set of wheels in the bargain.

Los Cabos has for decades been home to some of the world’s most famous fishing tournaments, but what many visitors may not know is that in addition to millionaire makers like Bisbee’s Black & Blue in Cabo San Lucas, the area also hosts two summer tournaments whose big prize is a brand new, fully-loaded automobile.

The 14th Annual East Cape Dorado Shootout

Since 2005, the beautiful East Cape community of Los Barriles has been hosting a one-day dorado fishing shootout. Dorado, for the uninitiated, is the Spanish word for what fishermen in the Western U.S. call mahi-mahi, and people in the Eastern U.S. typically refer to as dolphin or dolphinfish.

By any name, it’s a delicious food fish; and by any standards, the East Cape Shootout is one of the most popular annual fishing tournaments in Los Cabos, with an average turnout of about 130 teams per year.

Team entry for this year’s tournament, to be held July 21, is $500. That’s the ante for a shot at a new Amarok pickup and other prizes. Optional side jackpots can also be lucarative. Last year, jackpot purses alone totaled over $126,000.

The 2nd Annual East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Tournament

The Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot may not have the history of the Dorado Shootout – the inaugural tournament was held in 2017 – but it follows along the same lines: same entry fee, same basic set-up. The only real difference is the focus for fishermen, who will shift their priorities from golden hued dorado to swift swimming wahoo, a tasty game fish capable of speeds up to 60 miles per hour.

This year’s tournament is slated for August 25 and will feature over $100,ooo in cash and prizes. In addition to the new Volkswagen Tiguan, lucrative rewards will be distributed to the second and third places finishers in the wahoo category. Booty is also in the cards for those who bag the biggest dorado and tuna, plus great raffle items like fishing tackle, lures, rods, tackle boxes and gift certificates.

Both tournaments are sponsored by Van Wormer Resorts, with the post-fishing awards ceremonies held at the regional group’s picturesque Palmas de Cortez property in Los Barriles.

Participants aren’t restricted to Van Wormer based accommodations, however. The East Cape – a 70-mile stretch of pristine coastline that extends northwards from San Jose del Cabo to the Bay of Palms – also boasts a premium selection of villa rentals, relaxing beachfront getaways available at surprisingly affordable rates.

For more information about villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo courtesy of Van Wormer Resorts.

Upcoming Event Calendar

March

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Todos Santos Film Festival – March 7 – 11

Baja Shakespeare Festival – March 9 – 11, 14 – 17

Wine & Cheese Festival at Sheraton Grand Hacienda del Mar – March 10

El Triunfo Festival Artesanal – March 11

East Cape Arts Festival – March 18

Traditional Fiestas in San Jose del Cabo – March 14 – 19

El Ganzo Music Presents: Jenny & The Mexicats – March 24

Semana Santa (Holy Week) – March 25 – 31

Rancho Pescadero Yoga, Surf & Nutrition Retreat – March 28 – April 1

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – April 5, 12, 19, 26

Paws n’ Claws Golf Tournament and Dinner – April 8

Sabores de Baja Festival in Miraflores – April 15

NORRA Mexican 1000 – April 20 – 26

Los Cabos Culinary Awards – April 25

2018 Taco Fest Los Cabos at Casa Dorada – April 28

 May

483rd La Paz Foundation Festival – May 3 – 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Cinco de Mayo – May 5

Día de la Madre (Mother’s Day) – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – May 19 – 20

White Party at ME Cabo and Blue Marlin Ibiza – May 26

Rancho Pescadero Yoga, Surf & Nutrition Retreat – May 30 – June 2

June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – June 7, 14, 21, 28

Pelagic Triple Crown: 5th Annual Cabo Summer Slam – June 7 – 9

Los Cabos Open of Surf – June 11 – 17

Fiesta de la Musica – June 23

Stars and Stripes Golf & Fishing Tournament – June 28 – July 1

July

East Cape Dorado Shootout Fishing Tournament – Jul. 21

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 30 – Aug. 4

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Jul. 31 – Aug. 4

 August

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 25

 September

Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) – Sep. 16

 October

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 14 – 18

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 18 – 21

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 23 – 27

25th Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Oct. 28 – Nov. 10

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

 November

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Life Luxe Jazz Experience at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica – Nov. 1 – 4

IRONMAN 70.3 Latin American Tri Club Championship – Nov. 4

Adidas Golf Invitational at Cabo del Sol – Nov. 6 – 11

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 7 – 10

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 14 – 18

Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day) – Nov. 20

Día de Acción de Gracias (Thanksgiving) – Nov. 22

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27

Virgin of Guadalupe Feast Day – Dec. 12

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

Four Los Cabos Courses Voted to Golf Digest’s “World’s 100 Best” List

Golf Digest recently released its third biennial ranking of the World’s 100 Best Golf Courses, and Los Cabos has made yet another strong showing, with four its 16 operating courses – a staggering 25% – making the elite cut. Newcomer Quivira joins the Diamante Dunes Course, the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol, and Querencia in the rankings.

Diamante G.C. (Dunes) moved up five spots and now sits at No. 47 on Golf Digest’s exclusive roster. “Mexico’s first true links (was) fashioned by Davis Love III and his design team…from a fantastic set of white sand dunes along the Pacific Ocean, huge portions of which are without vegetation and seem like enormous snow drifts,” the magazine’s digital edition reported. “Holes hug the flowing terrain with little artificiality. Two holes on the back nine once played around a long lagoon, but have been replaced by (the) new 12th and 13th holes on the beach. Now all of the second nine is adjacent to the ocean, amidst the tallest dunes.” Perhaps most significantly, “No other links in the world sports cactus.”

Cabo del Sol (Ocean), the course credited with establishing Los Cabos as a world-class golf destination, retains its position at No. 70 on the list.  “When Jack Nicklaus first saw this Baja Peninsula site, what can best be described as Scottsdale-meets-the-Sea of Cortez, his thought was: ‘This is my chance to design a Pebble Beach,’ the report stated. “He took full advantage of that chance, developing an exciting routing that plays from highlands of desert cacti over dry washes and down to the sea on both nines.” When the layout opened in 1994, Nicklaus said it had the three finest finishing holes in golf. “That might still be true 24 years later, given that the greens at 16, 17 and 18 are all perched atop rocks above the crashing surf of Whale Bay.”

New to the list and debuting at No. 93 is Quivira G.C., the epic Land’s End layout grafted by Jack Nicklaus onto a jaw-dropping site marked by huge dunes, sheer cliffs and rolling foothills. “To see photos of Quivira’s cliffhanging fifth and sixth greens, one would expect this to be a mountainous golf course,” Golf Digest said of Quivira, which opened in 2014. “But a majority of its holes are on Pacific coastline sand dunes close to sea level or along the flank of a high desert plateau dotted with torote and cardon trees. Still, what earns the attention here is the par-4 fifth, its tee at 278 feet above sea level and its green at the far end of a ribbon fairway 107 feet below. Designer Jack Nicklaus calls this location, ‘one of the great pieces of property in the world,’ and he can be forgiven for requiring long cart rides between several holes. Such is the price to link together 18 truly sterling golf holes.”

Moving up a notch to No. 97 on Golf Digest’s “World 100 Greatest Golf Courses” roster is Querencia C.C., a brilliant Tom Fazio design opened in 2000 and set within a private 1,800-acre golf community. “The routing wanders the rugged high desert plateau on the outward nine, toward the Sea of Cortez, hopscotching a dramatic canyon on the par-3 eighth,” the magazine stated. “After reaching the far point on the par-5 ninth, the course turns for home over similar terrain, via two more outstanding par 3s, the 11th and 14th. Other holes have humpbacked fairways and greens tucked beneath huge rock outcroppings.”

In addition to the World 100 Greatest feature, Golf Digest also produced “The Best Courses in 206 Countries” as part of its Planet Golf report. Not surprisingly, Los Cabos dominates the Mexico entry. Ten of the courses on the 16-course list, including five of the top six venues, are located in Los Cabos, the hemisphere’s most celebrated golf getaway. Diamante (Dunes) and Cabo del Sol (Ocean) command the top two slots, followed by Quivira (No. 4), Querencia (No. 5) and El Dorado (No. 6). Also included on the Best in Mexico roster are Chileno Bay, Diamante (El Cardonal), Cabo del Sol (Desert), Palmilla, and Cabo Real.

 For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.loscabosvillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo courtesy of Quivira Golf Club.

 Upcoming Event Calendar

January

La Ventana Classic (Kiteboard and Windsurfing Tournament) – Jan. 17 – 21

Los Cabos Mountain Marathon – Jan. 20

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Jan. 27 – Feb. 3

 February

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22

Todos Santos Open Artists’ Studio Tour –  Feb. 10 – 11

Carnaval La Paz – Feb. 8 – 13

Valentine’s Day – Feb. 14

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 16 – 17

Baja Hog Motorcycle Rally – Feb. 21 – 25

Vidanta Los Cabos Grand Opening Featuring Calvin Harris, Steve Aoki and Zedd – Feb. 23 – 25

 March

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Todos Santos Film Festival – March 7 – 11

Baja Shakespeare Festival – March 9 – 11, 14 – 17

El Triunfo Festival Artesanal – March 11

East Cape Arts Festival – March 18

Fiestas Patronales in San José del Cabo – March 14 – 19

Semana Santa – March 25 – 31

Rancho Pescadero Yoga, Surf & Nutrition Retreat – March 28 – April 1

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – April 5, 12, 19, 26

Paws n’ Claws Golf Tournament and Dinner – April 8

NORRA Mexican 1000 – April 20 – 26

 May

483rd La Paz Foundation Festival – May 3

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Cinco de Mayo – May 5

El Día de la Madre (Mother’s Day) – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – May 19 – 20

White Party at Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

Rancho Pescadero Yoga, Surf & Nutrition Retreat – May 30 – June 2

June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – June 7, 14, 21, 28

Cabo Comedy Festival – Dates Note Yet Announced

Los Cabos Open of Surf – June 11 – 17

Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Sport Fishing – Dates Not Yet Announced

Grand Velas Los Cabos Grand Chefs Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica – June 21

Stars and Stripes Golf & Fishing Tournament – June 28 – July 1

July – August

East Cape Dorado Shootout Fishing Tournament – Jul. 21

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Jul. 31 – Aug. 4

 October

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 18 – 21

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 23 – 27

 November

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 14 – 18

 

 

Desert Gold: Baja 1000 Celebrates 50 Years of Epic Off-Road Racing

October 18, 2017

The most famous sporting event in Baja is also the most famous off-road racing event in the world: the legendarily rugged Baja 1000.

So devilish and dangerous did this annual off-road journey through the untamed heart of the peninsula prove that by the late 1960s and early 1970s it became a badge of honor, one that attracted Hollywood stars of the era like Paul Newman, Steve McQueen and James Garner. Even traditional motorsports stars like Indy 500 winner Parnelli Jones and 7-time NASCAR Cup champion Jimmie Johnson later felt the need to try it, as if driving fast over paved roads wasn’t enough of a challenge.

This year, the iconic race celebrates its 50th running – its golden anniversary – with a suitably epic 1200-mile point-to-point course from Ensenada to La Paz, scheduled from Nov. 14-18, 2017.

Over 350 entrants, from approximately 40 U.S. states and 30 countries, are expected to compete in the BF Goodrich Tires SCORE Baja 1000; and will do so across multiple classes – in motorcycles, cars and trucks, ATVs and UTVs. The race will be televised on the El Rey Network, available in over 45 million homes in the U.S.

When the Baja 1000 originally premiered back in 1967 – as a race from Tijuana to La Paz – it was under the auspices of off-road pioneers Ed Pearlman, Don Francisco, and their newly formed organization NORRA (National Off-Road Racing Association). Following the OPEC Oil Crisis in 1973, however, there was a change in organizers, and since 1975 the Baja 1000 has been run under the SCORE (Southern California Off-Road Enterprises) banner.

This year’s start and finish points are considered a bow to tradition:  Ensenada has served as the starting line a record 43 times; La Paz, meanwhile, has been the site of the finish line on 21 occasions.

The Baja 1000 has finished in Los Cabos only twice:  in 2000 and 2007, when the race was run from Ensenada to Cabo San Lucas. The cape cities, though, are home to a vibrant off-road racing culture. Numerous local companies offer dune buggy adventures across rugged beach, desert and mountain terrains, and one even offers excursions in actual Baja 1000 style race cars.

As a matter of fact, they’ll even let you enter one of the regional SCORE sponsored races (there are four each year, culminating with the Baja 1000), and provide in-race communications and other technical support. All prospective drivers need is plenty of nerve and a valid credit card number.

For more information about the SCORE Baja 1000 and other local events, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo courtesy of SCORE International.

 Upcoming Event Calendar

October

Sammy Hagar Birthday Concerts – Oct. 9, 11, 13 – 14

Fiestas Patronales (Patron Saint Festival) in Cabo San Lucas – Oct. 17 – 22

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 15 – 19

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore – Oct. 19 – 22

Bisbee’s Black & Blue – Oct. 24 – 28

David Pack’s Legends Live at Bisbee’s Black & Blue – Oct. 28

IAGTO Golf Tourism Convention – Oct. 29 – Nov. 4

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

 November

San José del Cabo Art Walk – Thursday evenings, 5 – 9 p.m., November through June

WON Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot Tournament – Nov. 1 – 4

Jim Flick Invitational Golf Tournament at Cabo del Sol – Nov. 7 – 12

Los Cabos International Film Festival – Nov. 8 – 12

Ironman Los Cabos Triathlon – Nov. 12

50th SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 14 – 18

Día de la Revolucion (Revolution Day) – Nov. 20

Día de Acción de Gracias (Thanksgiving) – Nov. 23

Extreme Sailing Series – Nov. 30 – Dec. 3

December

LigaMAC Christmas Party – Dec. 5

Dressed to the K-9s Charity Gala – Dec. 8

Sabor a Cabo Food and Wine Festival –  Dec. 9

Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Whale Watching Season – Mid-December to Mid-March

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Día de los Inocentes – Dec. 28

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos (Three Kings Day) – Jan. 6

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 11 – 21

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament – Jan. 15 – 19

La Ventana Classic (Kiteboard and Windsurfing Tournament) – Jan. 17 – 21

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Jan. 27 – Feb. 3

 February

Todos Santos Open Artists’ Studio Tour –  Feb. 10 – 11

Valentine’s Day Dinner at Sunset da Mona Lisa – February 14

Carnaval La Paz – Dates Not Yet Announced

Los Barriles Dog Show – Dates Not Yet Announced

 March

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Baja Shakespeare Festival – March 9 – 11, 14 – 17

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

East Cape Arts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiestas Patronales in San José del Cabo – March 19

Annual Cheese & Wine Festival at Sheraton Hacienda del Mar – Dates Not Yet Announced

 

 

 

NORRA Mexican 1000 Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Without doubt, the Baja California peninsula’s most iconic annual event is the Baja 1000,
a high-octane, high-adrenaline off-road challenge for motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs and other four-wheel vehicles that unfolds over 1,000 miles of rugged terrain.

When the event premiered in 1967 – as a race from Tijuana to La Paz – it was under the auspices of the National Off-Road Racing Association, formed the year before by a group of enthusiasts led by Ed Pearlman and Don Francisco. The latter had been involved in the early 1950s with the Carrera Panamericana, an over 2,000 mile road race across much of mainland Mexico that was then considered the most dangerous racing event in the world. It was Francisco that flew all around Baja to chart a viable course for the first race, Pearlman who handled press and promotion. This was the beginning of the legendary Baja 1000.

NORRA backed out of the race following the OPEC Oil Crisis in 1973, and there was no race at all in 1974. In 1975, eager to continue the tradition, Baja California governor Milton Castellanos convinced promoter Mickey Thompson and his SCORE (Southern California Off-Road Enterprises) organization to take over the race, which they did in 1975. The Baja 1000 has been run under the SCORE banner ever since.

But it was the first few years under NORRA that set the standard for modern off-road racing, and drew celebrity contestants like Indy 500 winner Parnelli Jones, as well as Hollywood movie stars like James Garner and Steve McQueen.

In order to honor that heritage, NORRA restarted the Mexican 1000 in 2010 as a fun, vintage-style rally race. Dubbed “The Happiest Race on Earth,” the new look Mexican 1000 features a mix of restored motorcycles, cars and trucks from the glory era of the Baja 1000, as well as modern desert rally cars. Classes are divided by eras to keep it fun and competitive for all, with high-speed off-road stages linked by controlled-speed highway portions.

The 50th anniversary running of the NORRA Mexican 1000 takes place April 23 – 27, 2017, coursing down the peninsula from Ensenada to San Felipe, San Felipe to Bahia de los Angeles, Bahia de los Angeles to Loreto, Loreto to La Paz, and finishing in San Jose del Cabo, site of the post-race awards ceremony.

To find out more about this legendary event and its fascinating history, visit https://www.norra.com/.

Photo courtesy of National Off-Road Racing Association.