Swinging into Autumn – September Events and Seasonal Activities in Los Cabos

September is traditionally the hottest month of the year in Los Cabos, and consequently the slowest from a tourism perspective. No surprise, then, that September is also the slowest month when it comes to special events.

Well, with one exception…and a rather major one at that. September is the month when Mexico celebrates its Independence Day.

Cinco de Mayo may get a lot of press in the U.S., but the remembrance of Mexico’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Pueblo in 1862 generates little more than yawns in Los Cabos. Mexico’s Independence Day, by contrast, is a huge deal in every town and city in the country, and is accompanied by affiliated celebrations, las fiestas patrias, which are observed throughout the month of September.

Honored each September 16, Mexican Independence Day remembers Miguel Hidalgo’s “Grito de Dolores” in 1810, a cry for freedom from Spanish colonization that culminated 11 years later with Mexico’s sovereign independence. Festivities kick off in cape cities San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas at 11 p.m. on September 15, with top political officials performing grito reenactments—which traditionally end with ¡Viva Mexico! ¡Viva Mexico! ¡Viva Mexico!—followed by fireworks and live music. The next day, large parades take place in both cities.

Visitors to Los Cabos will certainly find these patriotic celebrations interesting and entertaining, but hardly the only reason to get excited during the month of September. Because although it’s hot, slow and light on special events, September does have its attractions. Not only are rates typically a little lower for accommodations at resorts and rental properties, but September also represesnts the peak season for some of the area’s signature outdoor activities and adventures.

With that in mind, here are three “seasons” you won’t want to miss out on this September…

Sea Turtle Season

Five of the world’s seven endangered sea turtle species come to Baja California to lay their eggs–the green turtle, hawksbill, loggerhead, olive riddle and leatherback (the largest sea turtle and the world’s fastest aquatic reptile)–with local conservation agencies and some area resorts offering opportunities to assist in the hatchling process. Why is this help so important? Although mature sea turtles are long-lived and have few predators, they are in great danger during their initial journey away from the nest, extremely vulnerable to predators on both land and sea. The help visitors give, in other words, contributes to the long lives of hatchlings, and also to the continuation of these remarkable species. In Los Cabos, sea turtle season stretches from late August until early December.

Peak Diving Season

Los Cabos boasts spectacular year-round diving, with a half-dozen great sites at Land’s End alone, plus easy access to the living coral reef at Cabo Pulmo–one of the oldest and largest in the Western Hemisphere–and dedicated shipwreck dive sites in both Los Cabos and La Paz. One local boat, the Solmar V, even offers week-long trips to the Revillagigedo Archipelago, some 250 miles south of Cabo San Lucas, for unbelievable underwater encounters with deep sea creatures like manta rays, dolphins and great white sharks. The best times to visit in terms of water temperatures and visibility, however, are during the late summer and early autumn months. From July through October, water temperatures typically range from about 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. In other words: “The water’s perfect. Come on in!”

Swim with Whale Sharks Season

The whale shark is the largest fish in the world, reaching up to 40 feet in length, and weighing as much as 47,000 pounds. There is no risk in swimming with these gentle giants, however, since they subsist solely on plankton. Baja California Sur’s capital city of La Paz is the premier place to indulge in this unforgettable wildlife adventure, with the majority of interactions occurring near the tip of the El Mogote peninsula. For those interested in whale shark swims, complimentary round-trip transportation from Los Cabos is provided by several respected activities providers during the months of August through May each year.

Pretty amazing, right?

So on second thought, it seems like September really isn’t that slow after all. You just have to know what to look for!

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 Adventures

Upcoming Event Calendar

September

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

October

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

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 13 – 17

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

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

Van Wormer Resort Tuna Shoot Out – Oct. 26

Halloween – Oct 31

November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Nov. 1 – 2

Pelagic Rock Star Tuna Tournament – Nov. 1 – 3

Ironman Los Cabos 70.3 Half-Triathlon – Nov. 3

21st WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 6 – 9

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

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 13 – 17

52nd Annual Baja 1000 – Nov. 19 – 24

Sabor a Cabo International Food & Wine Festival – Nov. 30

December

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

Dressed to the K9s Charity Gala – Date Not Yet Announced

Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January

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

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 12 – 16

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 15 – 19

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 1 – 8

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

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 7 – 9

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Dates Not Yet Announced

21st Annual Baja Hog Rally – Dates Not Yet Announced

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March Events in Los Cabos

The most famous March event in Los Cabos doesn’t have an exact date. It goes on all month. That would be Spring Break, which each year attracts collegians from the U.S., Canada and Mexico to local beaches for fun in the sun before classes start up again.

The second most famous March event in Los Cabos also isn’t big on exact dates, except for the opening and closing days of its three-month run. That would be whale watching season, which officially starts on December 15 and officially ends on March 15, although locals and visitors occasionally still sight these leviathans into early April.

Baja California Sur visitors big on detailed itineraries needn’t worry, however. There are plenty of other big events this month with both dates and times, and in some cases even tickets! These events include the Baja Shakespeare Festival, an annual comedic/dramatic showcase on Los Cabos’ gorgeous East Cape; the Todos Santos Film Festival, which spotlights Latin American films at its historic downtown theater; and of course Carnaval in La Paz, an iconic regional event that is well worth the two-hour drive from Los Cabos.

Carnaval La Paz – February 28 – March 5

There are two cities that host notable Carnaval celebrations on the Baja California peninsula:  Ensenada and La Paz. Carnaval, for the uninitiated, is the Catholic pre-Lenten celebration that captivates Rio de Janeiro and New Orleans each year, although in the latter city it is better known as Mardi Gras. In La Paz, the uninhibited six-day farewell to debauchery is centered on the capital city’s malecón, and includes voluminous food and drink, colorful parades and costumes, plenty of live music from high-profile performers, and the coronation of a festival king and queen. This year’s theme is Grandes Navegantes (Great Navigators).

San José del Cabo Art Walk – March 7, 14, 21, 28

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.

19th Annual Baja Shakespeare Festival – March 8 – 10, 13 – 16

For nearly 20 years, Baja Sur’s beautiful East Cape has welcomed visitors for fun-filled theater twists on cultural classics…often but not always Shakespeare. This year’s selection, The Sea Princesa and the Frijole, is based on the classic Broadway hit, Once Upon a Mattress; the show that launched comedienne Carole Burnett’s career back in 1959. The highly anticipated production will be held during consecutive weeks at Hotel Buenavista Beach Resort. Tickets are $20 each, or $400 pesos.

BMW Golf Cup International World Final – March 18 – 23

The national winners of the BMW Golf Cup International will tee it up in Los Cabos, Latin America’s premier golf destination, from March 18 – 23. BMW is one of golf’s most important global partners, both on a professional and amateur level. The premium automobile manufacturer is a worldwide partner of the Ryder Cup as well as an organizer or title sponsor of three iconic BMW professional tournaments in the U.S., England and Germany. The company also organizes the world’s largest international tournament series for amateur golfers, the BMW Golf Cup International. Each year, roughly 100,000 amateur golfers from about 35 countries play a series of tournaments around the world as part of the BMW Golf Cup International. Each player has a single goal in mind: qualification for the World Final. Approximately 100 players will gather to compete at this unique global event, to which BMW has invited top performers since 1995. The World Final will be played at Cabo del Sol, which boasts magnificent 18-hole layouts from major champions Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf.

Todos Santos Film Festival – March 21 – 24

This annual showcase for Mexican and Latin American films was founded in 2004, and is based each year at the historic Teatro-Cine Manuel Marquez de Leon, a landmark 70+ year old movie theater that overlooks the town square in Todos Santos. The 16th edition of the coastal pueblo magico‘s acclaimed festival de cine is set for March 21 – 24, 2019, and will include full-length films, as well as shorts, documentaries, and projects from the local Youth in Video program. Additional screenings will take place in nearby Pescadero, and Baja California Sur’s capital city, La Paz.

 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:  Art Cabo

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 Upcoming Event Calendar

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

Wags & Whiskers BBQ, Adoption Fair and Pet Show – March 10

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

End of Whale Watching Season – March 15

7th Annual Cheese & Wine Festival at Sheraton Grand Los Cabos – March 16

East Cape Arts Festival – March 17

BMW Golf Cup World Final at Cabo del Sol – March 18 – 23

Todos Santos Film Festival – March 21 – 24

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – March 31

April

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

Los Cabos Jazz Festival at Hard Rock Hotel – April 25 – 28

NORRA Mexican 1000 – April 26 – May 3

 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

Triple Crown of Fishing/Cabo Summer Slam Tournament – June 6 – 8

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

Feria de la Pitahaya in Miraflores – Dates Yet to be Determined

East Cape Dorado Shoot Out – July 20

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

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot –Aug. 24

Mango Festival in Todos Santos – Dates Yet to be Determined

 September

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

 October

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 13 – 17

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

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

Van Wormer Resort Tuna Shoot Out – Oct. 26

November

Pelagic Rock Star Tuna Tournament – Nov. 1 – 3

21st WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 6 – 9

52nd Annual Baja 1000 – Nov. 19 – 24

Sabor a Cabo International Food & Wine Festival – Nov. 30

 December

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

 

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

All That Jazz! The Joys of a Jazz Weekend in San Jose del Cabo

Los Cabos has a well-deserved reputation for destination romance, from swaying palm trees and tropical sunshine to pampering spas and moonlit dinners on the beach. Given this commitment to courting, it should come as no surprise that Valentine’s Day is an important holiday in cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, and an occasion for area resorts and restaurants to take their romantic menus and amenities to an entirely new level. Special resort deals featuring extras like rose petal strewn sheets and chocolate covered strawberries are the norm at upscale hostelries, as are five-course Champagne paired meals at the region’s finest restaurants.

But such over-the-top, romance-oriented charms aren’t the only thing couples can look forward to during a mid-February vacation in paradise. Valentine’s Day weekend is also the traditional calendar spot for one of the Los Cabos area’s signature musical festivals, Jazz Weekend in San Jose del Cabo, which returns for its 7th annual edition on February 15 – 16, 2019.

Jazz Weekend welcomes local, national and international musical artists for two days of music celebrating the freewheeling style pioneered in the U.S. during the first decades of the 20th century, with an outdoor stage set up, and chairs and ample dancing room for some 5,000 attendees who have enjoyed the event in recent years.  The Jazz Weekend also celebrates art, including paintings demonstrated by a parade of top local artists. Admission is free on both days, with music scheduled from 5 to 11 p.m.

This year’s headliners represent the full spectrum of jazz, with a natural emphasis–given the Baja setting–on Latin jazz, including performances from Tribu Jazz Quintet, Marco Milagres Jazz Band, Jorge Tito Rodriguez Jazz Band, Jonathan “El Viejito” Ruvalcaba, Guitarras Magicas, Doowap and Gruv Machin.

Unlike most of the city’s cultural festivals, which are held in the historic downtown district, Jazz Weekend is hosted by Plaza del Pescador, an upscale shopping and dining center located across from the Playa Hotelera, the long golden sand beach which is home to many of the city’s most luxurious resorts.

Plaza del Pescador is no stranger to good music. Among its year-long residents are Rock & Brews, the rock n’ roll themed restaurant and bar from KISS legends Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, and the Jazz Tapas Bar, which showcases small plate pleasures and fine wine, as well as live music and colorful art inspired by the legends of jazz.

Jazz Weekend is the first of three important musical festivals held in San Jose del Cabo each year. The second series of concerts occurs during the annual Fiestas Tradicionales in March, when the city’s birth is commemorated by performances throughout the downtown area. The third is the Fiesta de la Musica in June, when well over 100 bands and performers celebrate the power of music as part of an international event that now takes place in more than 120 countries around the globe.

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:  San Jose Jazz Weekend/Plaza del Pescador

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

 

 

New Year, New Cheer! January Events in Los Cabos

Welcome to 2019! It’s an entirely new year, but visitors to sunny Los Cabos will find many familiar events this January. Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo, a staple of the local cultural calendar, continues each Thursday night. The premier area golf tournament, the Los Cabos Pro-Am also returns, as does the region’s best music festival and windsports competition. The biggest event of them all, however, is the ongoing drama known as whale watching season. January is the peak time to see these enormous creatures (primarily humpbacks and gray whales), who have journeyed from arctic feeding waters to breed in shallow water sites around Baja California Sur.

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo  (January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31)

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.

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament  (January 14 – 18)

The most notable golf tournament in a region famed for its spectacular courses–three of Los Cabos’ layouts are currently ranked among the 100 best in the world–returns January 14 – 18, 2010, as Cabo del Sol’s Ocean and Desert Courses play host to the 11th annual Los Cabos Pro-Am. Stay and play packages for the tournament include five days and four nights of accommodation at the Sheraton Grand Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort, as well as three rounds at the participating courses, plus an invitation to the opening and closing cocktail parties, and daily breakfast at one of Hacienda del Mar’s excellent onsite restaurants. Overall team prizes are another lure for amateurs.

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series  (January 10 – 20)

Former R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck pioneered jam culture in Todos Santos with this annual music festival, which brought in high-profile musicians for performances at the landmark Hotel California, as well as the town’s picturesque main plaza. Buck’s festival went on hiatus after he made some controversial comments about local politics at the 2016 event, but the music lives on. The freshly minted Tropic of Cancer Concert Series premiered in 2017, and returns again for a third iteration in 2019 with an all-star lineup headlined by Joan Osborne, Radio Free Honduras, Susto, Cordovas, La Santa Cecilia, Birds of Chicago, The Autumn Defense, and La Victoria.

La Ventana Classic  (January 16 – 20)

Baja California Sur boasts world-class conditions for a number of water-based activities: fishing, of course, but also surfing, sailing, diving, kayaking and, seasonally at least, windsports. Each winter, when strong El Norte winds blow down the Sea of Cortés, picturesque East Cape communities like Los Barriles and La Ventana become meccas for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts. Now that Los Barriles has ended its annual Lord of the Wind Showdown, the La Ventana’s “Classic” has become the premier regional competition, with windsurfers, kiteboarders and SUP (stand up paddleboarding) enthusiasts battling the breezes to earn cash and glory in various categories. This year’s event is scheduled for Jan. 16 – 20, with proceeds earmarked to benefit local schools. Mountain bike races have also been added to the event.

Whale Watching  (Mid-December to Mid-March)

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, when a gray whale dubbed Varvara traveled over 14,000 miles round-trip from Russia to Cabo San Lucas. Humpbacks, however, are the most commonly seen whale in Los Cabos waters.

 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:  La Ventana Classic

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

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

June

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

 

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament Returns in January 2019

There is no shortage of world-class golf courses in Los Cabos. To the contrary, the pool of gorgeous seaside layouts from big-name designers just keeps growing and growing. The newly opened Twin Dolphin Golf Club, a collaboration between PGA Hall-of-Famer Fred Couples and Todd Eckenrode of Origins Golf Design, is the latest example, bringing the total of playable courses in the area to 16. Three of those 16 are currently ranked among the 100 best in the world, and more championship-level courses are on the way, including the Greg Norman designed Rancho San Lucas, expected to open in 2019, and a second 18-hole layout from Jack Nicklaus at Quivira, expected to break ground in 2020. Truly, there is no place in the world quite like Los Cabos when it comes to destination golf.

But if the number of golf courses keeps climbing, the number of prominent local tournaments has remained quite modest. There are a few primarily charity focused tournaments like Paws n’ Claws (for the Los Cabos Humane Society) and Stars & Stripes (for children’s charities), and the Cabo Collegiate at Querencia, which hosts golfers from a dozen Division 1 schools. But when it comes to bigger, headline grabbing tournaments, there are really only two, and both–perhaps not coincidentally–are hosted by Cabo del Sol.

Cabo del Sol, after all, is one of the granddaddies of Los Cabos golf. Admittedly, granddaddy is a relative term. The first true 18-hole layouts weren’t sculpted until the early 1990s–a fact which actually bolsters Los Cabos’ standing as an unprecedented golfing destination–and those were built by the greatest champion of them all, Jack Nicklaus. The Golden Bear’s initial efforts, at Palmilla and Cabo del Sol, put Los Cabos on the golfing map, and as far as accolades and acclaim go, Cabo del Sol has remained the region’s benchmark site since.

Nicklaus himself famously referred to what is now known as the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol as “the best golf property I’ve seen.” Many others have agreed. It’s been rated one of top 1oo in the world for close to two decades, and currently sits as the no. 2 rated course in Mexico. The Ocean Course title was added to distinguish it from Tom Weiskopf’s Desert Course, which opened for play seven years after Nicklaus masterpiece, in 2001. Weiskopf, although not as heralded a golfer or designer as Nicklaus, is a major champion with some incredible course layouts to his credit. The Desert Course is one them, a dramatic loop that winds through desert and mountain foothills and features some breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez.

These two courses, Ocean and Desert, play host to the top two golf tournaments in Los Cabos. One is the Adidas Golf Invitational, formerly known as both the TaylorMade Invitational and Jim Flick Invitational, which welcomes pros and amateurs alike each November for individual and team competitions on the Cabo del Sol tracks. The second is the upcoming Los Cabos Pro-Am, which returns for its highly anticipated annual appearance on January 14 – 18, 2019.

Stay and play packages for the tournament include five days and four nights of accommodation at the Sheraton Grand Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort, as well as three rounds at the participating courses, plus an invitation to the opening and closing cocktail parties, and daily breakfast at one of Hacienda del Mar’s excellent onsite restaurants. Overall team prizes are another lure for amateurs.

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:  Nicklaus Design

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

5 Places to Ring in 2019 in Cabo San Lucas

Few places party harder or more consistently than Cabo San Lucas, a place long famed for its boisterous nightlife and bawdy beachfront cantinas. The Land’s End community’s premier party spots exceed even their own debaucherous standards, however, when it comes to New Year’s Eve, adding a spectacular midnight fireworks show over the bay to an already potent mix of high-octane spirits and high-energy dance music.

Champagne and margaritas will definitely be flowing freely at every bar in town, from hole-in-the-wall dives to elegant hotel lounges…but as a service to discerning destination revelers, here are the top 5 places to ring in 2019 in Cabo San Lucas.

The Cape: A Thompson Hotel

Few places on Earth boast a more picturesque setting than The Cape: A Thompson Hotel. Not only does this surfer chic retro property overlook one of the finest surf breaks in the region (the legendary left-hand Monuments), but it offers magnificent sunset views of the golden sand beaches and evocative granite monuments that form the Land’s End headland. The Capes’ Rooftop Lounge is thus the perfect viewing spot, either for nightly sunset celebrations or the New Year’s Eve fireworks show that takes place annually over Cabo San Lucas Bay. This year’s Rooftop New Year’s Eve dance party is headlined by international DJs Polo & Pan, as well as acclaimed producer Chad Hugo, who along with production partner Pharrell Williams makes up The Neptunes.

Caborey

In Cabo San Lucas, the best parties tend to take place along Médano Beach, since the bars and restaurants there have what are thought to be best views of the midnight fireworks show. Actually, though, the best views are from the bay itself…more specifically, from the gently rolling deck of one of the many party boats offering late night New Year’s Eve cruises.

Caborey, an enormous and luxurious triple-decked catamaran, has long been acknowledged as the king of the local dinner cruisers. It’s so big you can’t even call it a boat…nautical etiquette requires the term ship. No surprise then that this large and elegantly appointed vessel also hosts the area’s premier New Year’s Eve cruise, which lasts from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. and features a fine dining style dinner and subsequent floorshow showcasing Latin American singing and dancing (think tango!).

Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa

Luxurious beachfront Casa Dorada is probably best known for its superb Saltwater Spa, which features curative treatments and therapies that integrate the mineral rich waters of the Sea of Cortez. For partygoers, the resort is also known for hosting the region’s longest running New Year’s Eve costume gala. Last year, the theme was “Gatsby.” This year, it’s “Back to the Future.” Over 500 revelers are expected to attend the costumed fête, with festivities that range from fireworks to an open bar and deluxe buffet from onsite restaurant El Rincón Culinario.

ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza

Casa Dorada’s neighbor on Médano Beach, the hip Art Deco style ME Cabo, also hosts a highly anticipated New Year’s Eve celebration. But whereas Casa Dorada charms with themed costumes and family-friendly atmosphere, ME Cabo turns up the adults-only energy level by hosting an ever-changing array of celebrated international DJs at its onsite nightclub, Blue Marlin Ibiza. The latter is the site of some of Los Cabos’ biggest social events, including the annual White Party originally started by its ME Cabo based predecessor, Nikki Beach. The star of this year’s New Year’s Eve extravaganza at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza is French house music DJ extraordinaire Bob Sinclair.

María Corona

Downtown restaurant María Corona prepares food the old-fashioned way, from Mexican Revolution era recipes to hand rolled tortillas and homemade salsas. Given the attention to detail and nostalgic romanticism it’s little wonder that María Corona also knows how to throw a great, old-fashioned New Year’s Eve party, pairing a generously portioned five-course Mexican dinner with live music, party favors and colorful pyrotechnics. At midnight, diners can even indulge in the Spanish tradition of eating 12 grapes, which is meant to ensure good luck during each of the next 12 months. The headliner for this year’s New Year’s Eve shindig is Alfa Band, which brings its exuberant talent all the way from Mexico City.

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:  Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa

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

 

Where Art Matters – Todos Santos’ Collection of Cultural Festivals Headlines the Early 2019 Event Calendar

When you think about vacations in Los Cabos the first things that inevitably spring to mind are beautiful beaches, big-game sportfishing, and boisterous margarita-fueled nightlife. But for all the gorgeous outdoor scenery and party hearty atmosphere, the Capes Region is also justifiably proud of its arts and culture, which it celebrates on a regular basis.

Cabo San Lucas, for example, is home to acclaimed film and food festivals, and sister city San Jose del Cabo famously hosts a weekly Art Walk, welcoming locals and visitors alike into the galleries of its Distrito del Arte for wine, cheese and looks at the latest works from respected regional artists.

But no regional community offers as many outstanding cultural festivals and fiestas as Todos Santos, which showcases a succession of events annually celebrating music, literature, art, film and gastronomy…all within the space a few short months.

The peninsula’s first pueblo magico, or “magical town”–a designation given to Mexican communities rich in history and culture–is only an hour by car from Cabo San Lucas, and thus is within easy day tripping range for those vacationing in Los Cabos. With that in mind, here’s a preview of the top cultural festivals on tap in Todos Santos during the first few months of 2019.

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series  (Jan. 10 – 20, 2019)

Former R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck pioneered jam culture in Todos Santos with this annual music festival, which brought in high-profile musicians for performances at the landmark Hotel California, as well as the town’s picturesque main plaza. Buck’s festival went on hiatus after he made some controversial comments about local politics at the 2016 event, but the music lives on. The rebranded Tropic of Cancer Concert Series premiered in 2017, and returns for its 3rd go-round in 2019 with an all-star lineup headlined by Joan Osborne, The Autumn Defense, Cordovas, La Santa Cecilia, Birds of Chicago, Radio Free Honduras, Susto and La Victoria.

Todos Santos Writers Workshop  (Feb. 2 – 9, 2019)

Best known for its painters, Todos Santos has also proved a congenial community for writers. The 6th annual writers’ workshop returns to the atmospheric Casa Dracula–an historic 19th century hacienda–where creative writers are encouraged with seminars and speakers, publishing roundtables, and a variety of craft workshops that focus on fiction, non-fiction, memoir, poetry and other literary genres. Applicants to the weeklong event are chosen based on writing samples and phone interviews, and in addition to personal mentoring, enjoy courtyard readings from faculty and guest speakers.

Todos Santos Art Festival/Open Studios Tour  (Feb. 9 – 10, 2019)

Ever since painter Charles Stewart and his wife Mary Lou moved to Todos Santos in 1985, the town has been famed for its thriving artists’ colony. The best introduction to the region’s abundance of talented artists is the yearly Open Studios Tour, the 10th edition of which is scheduled for Feb. 9 – 10, 2019. Approximately 40 local artists will participate this year, including painters, sculptors, photographers, muralists, plein air painters, encaustic artists, jewelers, printmakers, collage artists, potters, and wood turners. The Palapa Learning Center will offer a special stop on the tour, and will showcase a sampling of selected tour artists’ work for sale. Additionally, the Palapa Society’s child artists will also be working in their “studio” with work on display.

Todos Santos Film Festival  (March 2019)

This annual showcase for Mexican and Latin American films was originally founded in 1994, and is based each year at the historic Teatro-Cine Manuel Marquez de Leon, a landmark 70+ year old movie theater that overlooks the town square in Todos Santos. The 16th edition of the coastal pueblo magico‘s acclaimed festival de cine is set for its traditional March calendar slot–actual dates have not yet been confirmed–and will include full-length films, as well as shorts, documentaries, and projects from the local Youth in Video program. Additional screenings will take place in nearby Pescadero, and Baja California Sur’s capital city, La Paz.

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival  (May 17 – 19, 2019)

Attention gourmands and oenophiles: outside perhaps the annual Sabor a Cabo shindig in Los Cabos, Gastrovino is the best food and wine festival in Baja California Sur. Gastrovino is organized by the owners of a local wine and olive oil shop called La Bodega de Todos Santos, and features a weekend chockablock with tantalizing tasting opportunities. The pairing dinner at legendary Hotel California is one of many recurring highlights, but the “Big Cheese,” so to speak, is the Sunday main event on the town square. There, dozens of wineries from Baja’s Valle de Guadalupe share their palate-pleasing wares, as do many of the region’s best restaurants. Live music is also a staple, as is a silent auction to benefit local programs for children.

 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:  Tropic of Cancer Concert Series.

Upcoming Event Calendar

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

May

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

 

30 Days of Land’s End Happenings – November Events in Los Cabos

Few months in Los Cabos are more exciting than November, thanks to a huge variety of highly anticipated events, from holidays and cultural celebrations to destination lifestyle experiences and lucrative sporting competitions.

The eleventh month of 2018 boasts no less than three major holidays, including Day of the Dead (one of the most visually striking and spiritually profound of all Mexican remembrances), Revolution Day (which honors the victories won by rebel leaders like Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata), and of course Thanksgiving, which has been imported from the U.S. for the benefit of turkey and cranberry sauce starved visitors.

The red carpet glamour of the Los Cabos International Film Festival makes it one of the cape cities’ signature cultural celebrations, although the return of the seasonal Thursday night Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo promises more lasting interest, since it runs through the end of June 2019.

Sporting aficionados, meanwhile, can choose between cash-rich fishing tournaments like the WON Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot, high-stakes golf at the Adidas Golf Invitational, endurance contests like the Ironman 70.3 half-triathlon, and off-road racing in the iconic Baja 1000.

There is something, in other words, to appeal to every traveler’s taste.

Dia de Muertos  (Oct. 31 – Nov. 2)

Mexico observes many holidays, but none quite so visually distinctive and emotionally resonant as El Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead). This holiday to honor deceased family and friends dates back to the time of the Aztecs – who dedicated a festival to Mictecacihuatl, queen of the underworld, each August – but now takes place contemporaneously with the Catholic observance of Allhallowtide. Traditionally, it is thought that the souls of children return on Nov. 1, and the souls of adults on Nov. 2. Families will often build ofrendas (altars) in their homes, welcoming back the spirits of the departed with some of their favorite food and drinks, as well as special holiday themed items like cempasuchil flowers (Aztec marigolds), calaveras de azucar (candy skulls), and a sweet bread called pan de muerto.

San Jose del Cabo Art Walk  (Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29)

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 recent downtown makeover is another reason to make the Thursday night pilgrimage.

20th Annual WON Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot Tournament  (Nov. 7 – 10)

The Western Outdoor News has a long history with Los Cabos, dating back to the 1950s, when Baja columnist Ray Cannon’s rave fishing reviews helped put the area on the destination travel map. The WON Tuna Jackpot is one of the larger fishing tournaments in Cabo San Lucas, a fixture of the autumn sporting calendar that follows hard on the heels of the Los Cabos Billfish and Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore and Black & Blue Tournaments. Last year’s event, the 19th edition, saw 147 teams competed across 11 events for over $677,000 in prize money. Even bigger things are expected this year.

Los Cabos International Film Festival  (Nov. 7 – 11)

The Los Cabos International Film Festival returns for its 7th edition on Nov. 7, with an inaugural red carpet gala and screening at the Pabellon Cultural de la Republica in Cabo San Lucas. The celebrity and paparazzi studded galas receive much of the attention, but the heart of the festival consists of curated screenings at Cinemex Theaters at Puerto Paraíso, and behind the scenes conferences and programs designed to promote mutually beneficial collaborations between the North American film industries. Thus, the LCIFF’s long-running tagline: “Come See What the Neighbors Are Doing.” Winners of prizes for significant achievements in cinema receive the coveted Ballena de Los Cabos, the whale-shaped award created by jeweler Daniel Espinosa that was first unveiled in 2016.

Dia de la Revolucion  (Nov. 20)

Revolution Day is a national holiday in Mexico that remembers the revolution from 1910 t0 1920, a civil war that began as a revolt against over three decades of dictatorial rule from President and caudillo supremo Porfirio Diaz, and continued as rebel factions fought to control the country’s future direction. It began when Francisco Madero published his Plan de San Luis, urging the people to rise up in arms on November 20, 1910, and continued under revolutionary leaders like Emiliano Zapata and Francisco “Pancho” Villa. Revolution Day is one of five Fiestas Patrias (Patriotic Holidays) celebrated annually, and is commemorated with a three-day weekend and parades across Mexico, including cavalcades in cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Dia de Accion de Gracias  (Nov. 22)

 No, Mexico does not honor a time in the distant past when pilgrims sat down to share a feast with the indigenous peoples. But in Los Cabos – home to many American and Canadian residents, both of whom celebrate their own versions of Thanksgiving – the holiday is observed, if mainly at special dinners or functions for residents or travelers from Mexico’s two North American neighbors. Canada’s version takes place Oct. 8, 2018; and is a time for parties and special menus at Canadian owned bars like Hooliganz in Cabo San Lucas. The U.S. version, called Dia de Accion de Gracias in Spanish, is much more acknowledged locally, and dinners featuring turkey and traditional fixings will be offered at restaurants around Los Cabos on Thursday, Nov. 22.

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:  WON Tuna Jackpot

Upcoming Event Calendar

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

 

Shooting Stars – The Red Carpet Return of the Los Cabos International Film Festival

The Los Cabos area has always been a favored getaway destination for Hollywood stars and other A-list celebrities. In the 1950s, icons John Wayne and Bing Crosby famously flew down for the white-winged dove hunting in Santiago, and visited the gorgeous East Cape for its renowned big-game sport fishing. When Hotel Hacienda opened in Cabo San Lucas in 1963, Wayne and sex symbol Raquel Welch were among its early visitors. More recently, paparazzi have taken to camping out on looking beaches looking for the latest celebrity bikini sightings (Kourtney Kardashian and Nicole Kidman are among the most recent “photo captures”), and entertainment industry moguls have bonded over their shared love of Los Cabos to start lucrative businesses. George Clooney and Randy Gerber, for example, started a tequila brand (Casamigos) while enjoying their neighboring Los Cabos properties, and rock stars Sammy Hagar and Adam Levine have since paired up on an unlikely fusion of tequila and mezcal called Santo Mezquila.

Liquor launches aside, though, the real business that brings celebrities to Los Cabos is show business, most notably appearances at the Los Cabos International Film Festival, which since its premiere in 2012 has posited itself as a North American version of Cannes…bringing together prominent players from the U.S., Mexican and Canadian film industries. The festival’s motto, after all, is “Come see what the neighbors are doing!”

The 7th edition of the LCIFF is slated for November 7 – 11, 2018, and as in previous years will provide a glitzy showcase for the area, featuring everything from red carpet premieres and VIP soirees to screenings of dozens of high-quality films competing for prizes and awards.

Films to look forward at the 2018 festival include At Eternity’s Gate, with William Dafoe giving an intense performance as painter Vincent Van Gogh; and 12 Years a Slave director Steve McQueen’s Widows, a new heist film with a spectacular ensemble cast headlined by Viola Davis, Liam Neeson, Robert Duvall, Colin Farrell, and Michelle Rodriguez.

In addition to gala screenings at the El Pabellon Cultural de la Republica (the Cabo San Lucas cultural pavilion that host red carpet premieres), select films will be shown at Cinemex Theaters at marina based mall Puerto Paraiso, as well as at select outdoor sites.

High quality films are well and good, of course, but the first question most people ask is who are the movie stars attending this year? In past years, cinematic luminaries like Kidman, Edward Norton, Reese Witherspoon, Matt Dillon, Monica Bellucci, Virginia Madsen, Oliver Stone, Liam Neeson and Ewan McGregor have attended, and the latter two actually engaged in a playful red carpet “light saber” battle in 2015, reprising their roles from the legendary Star Wars saga.

And those are only the stars most familiar to English speaking audience. Stars of stage, screen and small screen in Mexico have also showed out in droves, and are in fact the biggest hit with the locals who line the red carpet railing with paparazzi and national and international media.

No big announcements have been made as yet for 2018, but traditionally stars from chosen gala screenings appear at festival events, as do winners of the prestigious Ballena de Los Cabos, a whale-shaped, gold or silver gilded award that was unveiled in 2016, and is presented annually to several honorees for significant achievements in cinema

Stay tuned for additional details and movie star appearance confirmations via Twitter @LosCabosRental.

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: Los Cabos International Film Festival.

Upcoming Event Calendar

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