Classic Rock Rules: Live Music Events in Los Cabos in 2020

Jazz has become a popular staple in Los Cabos in recent years, with two major festivals celebrating this free-flowing musical genre. The San Jose Jazz Weekend has already happened, serenading multitudes over Valentine’s Day weekend. But Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival is still to come, and is one of the most highly anticipated events on the calendar for this April.

But make no mistake. Classic rock still rules in cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. This year alone, legendary acts like the Eagles, Doobie Brothers, Cheap Trick and Sammy Hagar are all scheduled to perform.

With that in mind, here’s a schedule to the biggest concerts and music festivals on tap for 2020. These are all destination events, intended as centerpiece experiences for vacations in Los Cabos.

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 to May 3

The Los Cabos Jazz Festival is the brainchild of noted jazz saxophonist and festival organizer Warren Hill. Originally from Toronto, Hill has charted several smooth jazz hits over the years. Nowadays, however, he is probably best known for Music Getaways, an event company he started that specializes in destination based music festivals. It was Hill and Music Getaways that started the now iconic Cancun Jazz Festival, a success that’s now been replicated in Los Cabos. The first festival took place last year as a sort of inauguration event for the newly opened Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos. The second edition returns to the Hard Rock in 2020 with an all-star lineup that includes War, Boney James, Tommy Davidson, Sheila E, Kem, and many other notable artists.

The Eagles and The Doobie Brothers Perform on Memorial Day Weekend – May 23, 24

These concerts are a very big deal, and if you don’t understand why consider the fact that the Eagles alone have sold over 150 million albums worldwide. This is a once-in-a-lifetime destination musical getaway opportunity, with the two Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted bands partnering with local luxury resorts to offer two nights of unforgettable performances to select crowds in an intimate beachfront setting.

Here are the scheduled dates and lineups:

Saturday May 23

An evening with The Doobie Brothers – Tom Johnston, Michael McDonald, Pat Simmons and John McFee.

Sunday May 24

EAGLES – Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit, with Deacon Frey and Vince Gill – performing their greatest hits.

24th Annual Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament Featuring Cheap Trick – June 24 to 28

During the 20+ years of its existence, the annual Stars and Stripes’ golf and fishing tournament has raised over 36 million dollars for youth focused charities. But it’s not simply a tournament or a charity benefit…more like a complete lifestyle experience. Participants go big-game sportfishing for dorado, wahoo, tuna, sailfish, swordfish, and black, blue and striped marlin; play golf at some of the world’s best golf courses; and enjoy spectacular live entertainment nightly. This year’s headliner is Cheap Trick, which has sold over 20 million records worldwide since its debut album in 1977. Recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, Cheap Trick brings its catalogue of hits to Cabo on Saturday, June 27th.

Sammy Hagar’s 73rd Birthday Bashes at Cabo Wabo Cantina – Oct. 9, 11, 13

Every year since 1990, loyal “Redheads” from around the world have flocked to Cabo San Lucas for Sammy Hagar’s Birthday Bashes at Cabo Wabo Cantina. In 2020, the former Van Halen and Montrose celebrates his 73rd year on the planet with an all-star cast of visiting musicians, including The Circle members Michael Anthony, Jason Bonham, and Vic Johnson. Shows aren’t officially scheduled as yet, but traditionally take place on October 9, 11 and 13, the finale of which falls on Hagar’s actual birthday. If past form holds, general admission tickets will be available to winners of a random drawing this summer, but those who aren’t selected will still have an opportunity to attend, as some dinner show tickets will be made available in early October on a first-come, first-serve basis.

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:  Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival

Upcoming Events Calendar

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

Los Cabos Half Marathon – Feb. 9

Biker Week Los Cabos – Feb. 13 – 17

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Mar. 8

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Festival Artesanal El Triunfo – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

May

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

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

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

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

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – June 20

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

July

Pitahayas Harvest Fair in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

East Cape Dorado Shootout – July 18

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 20 – 25

Ladies Only Fishing Tournament in Los Barriles – July 23 – 27

Mango Festival in Todos Santos – Dates Not Yet Announced

August

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Aug. 4 – 8

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 22

September

Mexican Independence Day – Sep. 16

 October

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 15 – 18

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 20 – 24

 November

Day of the Dead – Nov. 2

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 11 – 15

53rd Annual SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 16 – 21

Revolution Day – Nov. 20

 December

Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena – Dec. 24

Navidad – Dec. 25

Nochevieja – Dec. 31

Where Everywhere You Look is Blue – Celebrating the Beautiful Blue Flag Beaches of Los Cabos

What makes a great beach? Is it the views? The color and consistency of the sand? The availability of bars or restaurants? The conditions for activities like surfing, snorkeling and swimming?

It’s an interesting question and one that is at the heart of any visit to Los Cabos, given that the region boasts over 100 miles of coastline, with more picturesque playas that the average tourist could see in a year.

When it comes to aesthetics, picking a favorite is purely a personal choice. But there is one objective measurement for beaches, in Los Cabos and elsewhere. That’s the Blue Flag program pioneered in the 1980s by the European based Foundation for Environmental Education, which judges beaches based on very defined standards of cleanliness, services and sustainability.

Blue Flags are not about beauty. They’re about signs, clean bathrooms, showers, handicap access, recycling bins, parking, and other practical concerns that can significantly enhance one’s experience at the beach.

But since every beach in Los Cabos is visually breathtaking, offering stunning Sea of Cortez or Pacific Ocean views, the availability of these basic services is a big deal when it comes to choosing where you want to spend your day in paradise…particularly if you’re traveling with children or people with disabilities.

The good news is that there are a lot of blue flags flying in cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, as well as along the 20-mile tourist corridor which connects them. As a matter of fact, Los Cabos has more blue flag beaches – 19 – than any other destination in Mexico.

For some context, the blue flag program is globally recognized, with beaches or marinas maintaining the stringent blue flag standards (it’s not a lifetime award) in nearly 60 different countries around the world. Mexico is currently in 13th place overall in terms of countries with the most blue flag beaches, claiming 54 nationwide. Baja California Sur, the state where Los Cabos is located, leads the way with 20 (again, 19 in Los Cabos alone!). The only other state that is close is Quintana Roo, the state where Cancun and the Riviera Maya is located, with 17.

Los Cabos’ blue flag supremacy is a rather new phenomenon. As recently as 2016, the municipality had only three beaches that had earned FEE’s blue flag stamp of approval: Playas Chileno, Santa Maria and Palmilla. The stunning growth of the program since then is a credit to the community at large, which has recognized how important beaches are to the tourism industry and has made a commitment to keep the local sands both beautiful and sustainable.

Many of the newest blue flag beaches in Los Cabos are in fact subsections of Playa El Medano, the two-mile stretch of golden sand that is the center of social life in Cabo San Lucas. But blue flag beaches can be found in virtually every corner of Los Cabos, from popular city based locales to lesser known gems like La Ribera, an East Cape playa where a new Four Seasons resort has recently opened.

With that in mind, here are the 19 blue flag beaches in Los Cabos for 2020:

Acapulquito

El Chileno

El Corsario

La Ribera

Las Viudas

Medano Breathless

Medano Casa Dorada

Medano Club Cascadas de Baja

Medano Hacienda

Medano ME Cabo

Medano Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos

Medano Pueblo Bonito Rose

Medano Riu Palace Los Cabos

Medano Riu Santa Fe

Medano Villa Del Palmar

Medano Villa El Arco

Medano Villa La Estancia

Palmilla

Santa Maria

No need to rank them further. Visiting any of these sun-kissed meccas ensures you’re going to have a great day at the beach.

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:  Chileno Beach Resort & Residences

Upcoming Events Calendar

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

Los Cabos Half Marathon – Feb. 9

Biker Week Los Cabos – Feb. 13 – 17

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Mar. 8

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Festival Artesanal El Triunfo – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

May

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

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

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

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

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – June 20

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

July

Pitahayas Harvest Fair in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

East Cape Dorado Shootout – July 18

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 20 – 25

Ladies Only Fishing Tournament in Los Barriles – July 23 – 27

Mango Festival in Todos Santos – Dates Not Yet Announced

August

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Aug. 4 – 8

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 22

September

Mexican Independence Day – Sep. 16

October

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 15 – 18

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 20 – 24

November

Day of the Dead – Nov. 2

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 11 – 15

53rd Annual SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 16 – 21

Revolution Day – Nov. 20

December

Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena – Dec. 24

Navidad – Dec. 25

Nochevieja – Dec. 31

The Legacy of Baja’s Off-Road Past Lives on in the NORRA Mexican 1000

Los Cabos has been consciously rebranded as a luxury destination in recent years, welcoming iconic luxury brands like Waldorf Astoria, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton and Nobu, and increasingly spotlighting its wealth of pampering spas, championship golf courses and world-class cuisine.

That’s the Los Cabos of today, a place of both beautiful beaches and exclusive high-end amenities.

But as anyone who is a long-time visitor to the area can attest, it wasn’t always this way.

During the 1960s and 1970s, when cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo were developing as tourist destinations, there were very few resorts in the region and a limited array of amenities. The peninsular highway connecting Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas wasn’t completed until 1973; the Cabo San Lucas Marina wasn’t finished until the early 1980s; and the first 18-hole golf courses didn’t appear until Jack Nicklaus arrived on the scene in the early 1990s.

It was still a spectacular destination, mind you, but one marked by a more rugged beauty and a more rugged disposition. Back then, people typically came to Los Cabos (a name that wasn’t even invented until 1981) for one of two reasons: to fish or to race.

Well, there was actually a third. Hollywood stars like John Wayne and Bing Crosby used to fly into nearby Santiago to go white-winged dove hunting. But mainly there was fishing and there was off-road racing. People came to the region to bag a marlin or to test their nerves in one of the most challenging races on the planet. The latter would be the famed Baja 1000, which for over 50 years now has been the standard bearer for its sport.

The roots of this legendary race are important because there are now two 1000 mile races that take place each year in Baja, the second being the NORRA Mexican 1000. It’s held every April while the SCORE Baja 1000 is always run in November.

NORRA and SCORE. Those are the two signature off-road sanctioning bodies in Baja and their history is a fascinating one, because at varying times both have been associated with the Baja 1000.

Here’s how it happened:

When Baja’s off-road endurance challenge 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 racing enthusiasts led by Ed Pearlman and Don Francisco. It was Francisco, a veteran of the Carrera Panamericana, 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 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 current version of the 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.

There are eight technology eras or classes for this year’s race, for instance, including Pioneer (1967 – 1975), Legend (1976 – 1982), Challenger (1983 – 1988), Vintage (1989 – 1997), Historic (older than 1997) and Evolution (modern vehicles), as well as motorcycles/ATVs and modified stock vehicles.

The 11th edition of the NORRA Mexican 1000 will take place April 17th to the 24th, with a traditional race course that starts in Ensenada and then winds down the peninsula through San Felipe, Guerrero Negro, Bahia de Los Angeles, Loreto, and La Paz before concluding with a finish line fiesta and awards ceremony in San Jose del Cabo.

But don’t let that 11 fool you. NORRA has been a force in Baja off-road racing for well over 50 years.

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:  NORRA Mexican 1000

Upcoming Events Calendar

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

Los Cabos Half Marathon – Feb. 9

Biker Week Los Cabos – Feb. 13 – 17

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Mar. 8

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

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

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

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

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Date Not Yet Announced

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

July

Pitahayas Harvest Fair in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 20 – 25

Mango Festival in Todos Santos – Dates Not Yet Announced

August

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – Aug. 4 – 8

 

 

Culture & Tradition: February Events in Los Cabos

February is an exciting month for events in Los Cabos, but not the sort of events like food festivals and fishing tournaments that visitors typically associate with the region. Rather, the focus in February is on culture and tradition.

Art lovers, for instance, will have multiple opportunities in February to get acquainted with some of Baja California Sur’s finest painters and sculptors, from the weekly Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo to the Open Studios Tour and Art Festival in Todos Santos. The latter is only an hour by car from Cabo San Lucas and will also be showing off its sensitive side at the 7th annual Writers Workshop.

Sensitivity is not something typically associated with bikers, but aficionados of two-wheeled vehicles do value tradition; and it’s a tradition of Biker Week Los Cabos for local riders to host guests from around the country (and in some cases, the world). The month’s biggest event, however, is undoubtedly Carnaval in La Paz. Think of it as Mardi Gras, Baja style. No beads but plenty of great music.

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – February 1st to 8th

Best known for its painters, Todos Santos has also proved a congenial community for writers. The 7th 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. An optional second week from February 10th to 15th is available to those who’d like to take advantage of the facilities, teaching and creative spirit for a more in-depth experience.

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – February 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.

Biker Week Los Cabos – February 13th to 17th

This annual Harley Davidson motorcycle rally features separate road trips from Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos and La Paz, with pit stops along the way for gas or for parties and other activities. Riders from the mainland will be arriving with their motorcycles by means of the ferry at Pichilingue, La Paz, where they’ll be met by local riders and escorted back to Cabo San Lucas. The festivities kick off with a welcome cruise on Wednesday, Feb. 13. To see the full schedule of events, visit www.bikerweekloscabos.com.

San Jose Jazz Weekend – February 14, 15

2020 marks the 8th edition of San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend, a festival dedicated to the freewheeling American musical style held yearly at the popular Plaza del Pescador, an outdoor mall across from the city’s resort-lined Playa Hotelera. Plaza del Pescador has only been around for a few years, but has quickly established a reputation for itself as a music venue, thanks to tenants such as Jazz Tapas Café and Rock&Brews, the restaurant chain started by KISS members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. Admission is free to the two-day music fest, which takes place from 5 to 11 p.m. on Feb. 14 – 15. To check out the year’s line-up for this year’s Jazz Weekend, visit www.sanjosejazzweekend. com.

Carnaval in La Paz – February 20th to 25th

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 malecon, 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 La Fiesta de los Dioses (“The Party of the Gods”).

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

Upcoming Events Calendar

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

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

Whale Watching Season – January through April 15th

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

Los Cabos Half Marathon – Feb. 9

Biker Week Los Cabos – Feb. 13 – 17

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Mar. 8

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

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

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

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

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Date Not Yet Announced

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24

The Other Side of Los Cabos – A Look at Upcoming Events on the East Cape

Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo may be the most populous towns–and tent-pole tourist destinations–of Los Cabos, but there’s much more to Baja California Sur’s southernmost municipality than merely these two places.

The Los Cabos municipality as a whole encompasses more than a dozen other communities that are well worth a visit, from Santiago and Miraflores to the small towns on the picturesque East Cape, a belly-shaped coastal arc that stretches over 70 miles from San Jose del Cabo to the Bay of Palms.

The East Cape has been much in the news of late thanks to the opening of the new Four Seasons Los Cabos at Costa Palmas (in La Ribera), an ambitious new luxury resort and residential development–complete with yacht marina and championship level golf course–headlined by one of the world’s foremost hospitality luxury brands.

But that’s hardly the only reason to visit this beautiful region. The small East Cape community of Cabo Pulmo, for example, boasts one of the largest living coral reefs in North America in its protected offshore marine park, as well as the highest concentration of sea life in the Sea of Cortez. The East Cape also offers, at least during winter months, world-class whale watching and windsports (windsurfing, kiteboarding and the like), the latter created by the strong El Norte winds that blow down the coast each year between mid-November and mid-March.

And the East Cape has a bit of culture too, which is shown off to good advantage in annual events celebrating arts, crafts, drama and cuisine. A number of these signature events, in fact, are happening soon; providing even more reasons to explore what we sometimes like to refer to as “the other side of Los Cabos.”

First up is the annual Baja Shakespeare Festival. For nearly 20 years, the small East Cape fishing town of Buenavista has welcomed visitors for fun-filled theater twists on cultural classics…often but not always Shakespeare. Last year’s selection, The Sea Princesa and the Frijole, was based on the classic Broadway hit, Once Upon a Mattress; the show that launched comedienne Carole Burnett’s career back in 1959. This year’s presentation is A Baja Chorus, a takeoff on the long-running Broadway musical, A Chorus Line. The highly anticipated production will be held during consecutive weeks at Hotel Buenavista Beach Resort (March 6th to 8th and 11th to 14th). Tickets are $20 each, or $400 pesos.

Next up is the East Cape Arts Festival, which since 1994 has been the best showcase for regional arts, crafts and East Cape culture. The 2020 edition is scheduled for March 15 at the Hotel Palmas de Cortez in Los Barriles, and in addition to creative arts and crafts–from paintings and pottery to clothing and blankets–regional music and dance will also be spotlighted, as will traditional Mexican food and drink.

Inland from the East Cape is the small town of Miraflores, which is notable for several reasons, including the unusual longevity of its residents and its annual summer harvest festival celebrating pitahayas. This succulent cactus fruit (from the prickly pear variety) was once the favorite food of the area’s indigenous inhabitants, the Pericues, and is still prized by modern Cabeños for both its taste and antioxidant qualities. The latter, in fact, may be why so many Miraflores residents seem to live past the century mark.

Nowadays, Miraflores is known as the foremost organic farming community in the Los Cabos municipality, the place the region’s best restaurants go to source their produce. It’s the perfect place, in other words, to host an organic food festival that focuses on the traditional cuisine and culture of Los Cabos. The annual Festival Sabores de Baja (sabores translates as tastes or flavors) will be hosted by Doña Pame Restaurante from noon to 5 p.m. on March 8th, and will feature live music from local performers.

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:  Sabores de Baja

Upcoming Events Calendar

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

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

Whale Watching Season – January through April 15th

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

Los Cabos Half Marathon – Feb. 9

Biker Week Los Cabos – Feb. 13 – 17

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Mar. 8

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

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

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

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

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Date Not Yet Announced

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

 

 

Romance, Music and Dance – Previewing the 8th Annual San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend and Valentine’s Day in Los Cabos

Los Cabos is one of the world’s great romantic destinations, offering not only gorgeous beaches and year-round sunshine, but an abundance of soothing spas, pampering amenities and luxurious cliff side rental villas.

And the attractions don’t stop there. Local restaurants also do their part for visiting couples, showcasing spectacular seaside views as well as multi-course dinners with tasting menus that make frequent use of Valentine’s Day favorites like Champagne and chocolates.

But the event most singularly associated with Valentine’s Day in Los Cabos isn’t any dinner, but rather San Jose Jazz Weekend.

Although one might not necessarily associate the improvisational musical form with romance, this annual event–the 8th edition of which will be held February 14th and 15th in San Jose del Cabo–has all the tried and true ingredients for a romantic evening in paradise, from seductive saxophones and swaying palm trees to harmonies so captivating those in attendance are often compelled to get up and dance the night away under starry tropical skies.

Set at Plaza del Pescador, one of the city’s premier shopping and dining meccas, San Jose Jazz Weekend takes place Friday and Saturday nights, from 5 to 11 p.m., and in past years has drawn upwards of 5,000 attendees.

Why not? After all, Jazz Weekend also has that extra ingredient so treasured by budget-conscious travelers. It’s free.

As one might imagine, Latin jazz is a particular focus for the event and over past years a virtual who’s who of world-class performers have appeared. This year’s schedule has yet to be unveiled, so stay tuned for upcoming announcements. And if your tastes run more to rock n’ roll than jazz–Latin or otherwise –make sure to stop in at Rock n’ Brews. Founded by KISS stars Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, the locally based location of this food and lifestyle brand is located at Plaza del Pescador and has its own live music schedule.

For those interested in a little pre-Valentine’s Day romance, San Jose del Cabo’s long-running Thursday night Art Walk offers a nice lead-in, as gallery owners in the downtown Distrito de Arte stay open late to show off their latest artists and exhibitions.

It’s not just the galleries that offer aesthetic stimulation, however, but also unique neighborhood setting. The cobblestone streets of the historic Art District are filled with wandering musicians and performers, while street artists and local craftsmen and women lay out their creations for all to admire. Local architectural monuments like City Hall and the old Catholic Church (Parroquia San Jose), meanwhile, are aglow with colorful lighting.

And lest one think Cabo San Lucas is oblivious to the spirit of St. Valentine, the other cape city has its own share of romantic attractions; most notably, the sunset dinner cruise offered by Caborey. This triple-decked catamaran takes couples for a guided tour of the half-mile Land’s End headland–including up-close looks at The Arch and Lover’s Beach – and after a gourmet multi-course meal, puts on a Las Vegas style floorshow with Latin American singing and dancing, headlined by a sultry Argentine tango.

Still not romantic enough? How about horseback rides along a secluded beach or carriage rides that take you to and from your favorite Valentine’s Day dinner locale? That’s the specialty of Cuadra San Francisco, a Tourist Corridor based stable with close to 50 horses and expertly-trained staff.

Too slow? Then we recommend renting a Harley-Davidson for Biker Week Los Cabos. The four-day get-together and road trip run to Loreto and back takes place over Valentine’s Day weekend, with rentals available from the Harley Davidson shop in the marina boardwalk based Puerto Paraiso shopping mall.

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

Upcoming Events Calendar

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

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

Whale Watching Season – January through April 15th

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

Los Cabos Half Marathon – Feb. 9

Biker Week Los Cabos – Feb. 13 – 17

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Mar. 8

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

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

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

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

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Date Not Yet Announced

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

 

 

New Year, New Fiestas: January Events in Los Cabos

January marks the height of high tourist season in Los Cabos, as well as the height of whale watching season; meaning many of the world’s largest and most magnificent creatures can be seen up-close on daily tours guided by area activities providers.

But it’s not just the whales that make January special. The first month of the new year also sees the return of two important regional cultural showcases in the weekly Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo and the Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos, plus iconic southern Baja sporting competitions such as the Los Cabos Pro-Am golf tournament and the La Ventana Classic (a windsports competition that draws some of the West Coast’s best windsurfers and kiteboarders).

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

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 12 – 16

The most notable golf tournament in a region famed for its spectacular courses returns January 12 – 16, 2020, as Cabo del Sol’s Ocean and Desert Courses play host to the 12th 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 in Todos Santos – January 15 – 19

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 is still going strong for its fourth iteration in 2020 with an all-star lineup headlined by Joan Osborne, Radio Free Honduras, Susto, Cordovas, Holy Spirits, Elizabeth Cook, La Victoria and The Charities.

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 Season – Month-long

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 species in Los Cabos waters during whale watching season, which officially stretches from December 15th to April 15th.

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 Events Calendar

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

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

Whale Watching Season – January through April 15th

 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 – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

20th Annual Baja Hog Rally – Feb. 20 – 24

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

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

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

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

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Date Not Yet Announced

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

 

 

Where Magic Happens:  Previewing Event Season in Todos Santos

Todos Santos is one-of-a-kind, an eclectic mix of old and new that is utterly unlike any other community on the Baja California peninsula.

The “old” is the town’s distinctive architectural profile, notably the stately and picturesque brick buildings that are a legacy from Todos Santos’ 19th century prominence as a peninsular sugar capital. The “new” is the vibrant arts scene, which began in the 1980s when artists first started to fall in love with the area’s unique natural light, and its gorgeous setting between the Pacific Ocean and Sierra de la Laguna mountain range.

No wonder, really, that Todos Santos became the first place in Baja to be designated a pueblo magico–literally, a “magical village”–a Mexican government designation given to places of great historical or cultural importance.

Todos Santos, of course, qualified on both counts, and its proximity to Cabo San Lucas–one hour by car–ensures it will continue to flourish as a popular day trip destination.

Today, the town is a haven not just for painters, but artists of all kind, from writers and sculptors to musicians and chefs. This creative diversity is shown off to full effect in the many downtown galleries, as well as the series of festivals celebrating music, literature, art, cinema and cuisine that take place during the first few calendar months of each year.

There is no bad time to visit beautiful Todos Santos, but the best time is during one of the following festivals.

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series – January 15 – 19

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 is still going strong for its fourth iteration in 2020 with an all-star lineup headlined by Joan Osborne, Radio Free Honduras, Susto, Cordovas, Holy Spirits, Elizabeth Cook, La Victoria and The Charities.

Todos Santos Writers’ Workshop – Feb. 1 – 8

Best known for its painters, Todos Santos has also proved a congenial community for writers. The 7th 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. An optional second week from Feb. 10 – 15 is available to those who’d like to take advantage of the facilities, teaching and creative spirit for a more in-depth experience.

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

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 11th edition of which is scheduled for Feb. 7 – 9, 2020. Dozens of local artists will participate, 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.

Todos Santos Film Festival – March 2020

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 17th edition of the coastal pueblo magico‘s acclaimed festival de cine is set for March 2020 (specific dates have not yet been announced), 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 Baja Food & Wine Festival – April/May 2020

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. Specific dates have 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.

Photo credit:  Festival de Cine Todos Santos

Upcoming Events Calendar

December

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

Sabor a Cabo Rural Tasting – Dec. 8

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

New Year’s Eve Stars of the Night Party at Casa Dorada – Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza with DJ Roger Sanchez – Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Mango Rouge Party at Mango Deck – 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

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

 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

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

20th Annual Baja Hog Rally – Feb. 20 – 24

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

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

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

 

 

New Year, New Opportunities: Fishing Tournaments in Los Cabos in 2020

Fishing is fun, but in Los Cabos it’s also extremely lucrative.

Six figure winning payouts are the norm at high-profile tournaments, and at Bisbee’s annual trio of competitions it’s not unusual for the top teams to take home one million dollars or more. In fact, 18 teams have been handed a check for at least one million dollars at Bisbee’s signature Black and Blue marlin fishing tournament.

So don’t call it a vacation. Instead call your next trip to Los Cabos an investment in your future.

Here’s the schedule for the top tournaments in 2020, including information on registration and recent results.

 Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13, 2020

Bisbee’s isn’t the only organizer of big money fishing tournaments in Los Cabos. Water sports apparel maker non pareil Pelagic hosts its 7th annual Summer Slam this June, inviting anglers to compete for over 350,000 in prize money. After a shotgun start in front of Land’s End, teams compete to haul in trophy size marlin, sailfish, tuna, dorado and wahoo during the multi-day tournament. Base entry is $$3,500 per team, or $19,500 across-the-board for all jackpots and prizes.

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – August 1 – 4, 2020

 The East Cape Offshore is the first of three Bisbee’s fishing tournaments that take place in Baja California Sur each year. The ECO is always first, and kicks off Bisbee’s 2020 series starting August 1st. 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 additional fees for daily jackpots ($22,500 “across the board”). Prize money is based on entry fees received, with 60% going to the billfish winners, and 20% each to top tuna and dorado anglers. Team El Suertudo took home the largest payout in tournament history in 2019, earning a healthy $619,800 for a 381 lb. blue marlin.

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore – October 15 – 18, 2020

Commonly known as “Little Bisbee’s,” to differentiate it from the “Big Bisbee’s” Black & Blue marlin fishing tournament that also takes place each October in Los Cabos, the Los Cabos Offshore dates back to 2002, and is considered a more laid-back, charity focused endeavor than the Black & Blue. Cash prizes are awarded to the teams with the three biggest qualifying fish in the game and billfish categories at the LCO, and large amounts of fish/meals are always donated to local families in need. Base entry for teams is $1,500 U.S., with $22,500 necessary for “across the board” entry in all jackpots and challenges. Team Predator took home the most money in 2019, pocketing a cool $445,825 for a few days of “work”.

Bisbee’s Black & Blue – October 20 – 24, 2020

Oft billed as “The World’s Richest Fishing Tournament,” thanks to its million dollar payouts, this marlin fishing tournament originally premiered in 1981, and remains to this day the highest profile annual event in Los Cabos. The $4.165 million payout in 2006 was and still is the largest in sportfishing history. Base entry for this millionaire maker is $5,000 U.S. per team, and requires a $71,500 U.S. outlay across all categories, jackpots and challenges. Prizes are awarded for the top five catches of black and blue marlin, assuming they meet the minimum standards (300 lbs.). Three separate checks of over 1.3 million dollars were handed out in 2019.

22nd Annual WON Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot Tournament – Nov. 4 – 7, 2020

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 21st edition, saw a 345 lb. yellowfin tuna take first place, which translated to a $425,230 payout check to Team Sirena. Even bigger things are expected this year.

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 Marlin Fishing Tournaments

Upcoming Events Calendar

December

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

Sabor a Cabo Rural Tasting – Dec. 8

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

New Year’s Eve Stars of the Night Party at Casa Dorada – Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza with DJ Roger Sanchez – Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Mango Rouge Party at Mango Deck – 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

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

 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

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

20th Annual Baja Hog Rally – Feb. 20 – 24

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

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

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

 

 

Holiday Spirits! 3 Drinks to Try During the Christmas Season in Cabo

Spending the holiday season in Los Cabos has many advantages. For starters, there’s no snow, no ice, no sleet, no freezing winds. Instead, there is only sunshine, perfect for lazy days in a hammock at the nearest playa.

But it’s not just beautiful weather and luxurious beachfront resorts that make Los Cabos a savvy choice as a holiday getaway. There are also many charming cultural traditions that accompany the Christmas season in Mexico, among which are a trio of delicious drinks indelibly associated with seasonal celebrations.

The names may not be familiar, but all three are heartily recommended for yuletide toasts.

Noche Buena

Ice-cold Coronas are perfect for a day at the beach. But what beer goes with Christmas in Cabo?

That would be Noche Buena, a dark bock-style lager produced seasonally (October through December) by Cerveceria Cuahtemoc Moctezuma, the brewery behind such iconic Mexican beer brands as Dos Equis, Tecate, Sol, Carta Blanca, Indio and Bohemia (under whose imprint Noche Buena is issued).

Noche Buena is instantly recognizable to beer lovers by its label, which features red and green poinsettia, a flower linked in both name and color palette with Christmas. Poinsettia in Spanish, you see, is known as Nochebuena, as is Christmas Eve. Thus the beer, both in its distribution and imagery, is inextricably tied to the holiday season.

It’s also instantly recognizable by its taste, thanks to rich distinctive notes of malt, caramel and chocolate.

Although Cuahtemoc Moctezuma has been a subsidiary of Heineken International since 2010, Noche Buena is no longer exported to the U.S. So if you want to enjoy this outstanding seasonal brew, you’ll have to spend the holidays in Mexico, preferably in Los Cabos.

Rompope

How many potent alcoholic beverages have been invented by nuns? Just one that we know of: rompope.

This eggnog style sipper is said to have been invented by 17th century sisters at the Santa Clara convent in Puebla, and to this day the Santa Clara brand remains the most popular among national consumers.

Rompope is so beloved in Mexico that it is used as a flavor in candy and gelato, but the rum-spiked holiday drink remains the most iconic offering (although unlike Noche Buena, you don’t have to wait for the holiday season to buy it). It’s available year-round in stores, and can be served either room temperature or slightly chilled.

A rompope based cocktail called the monjita (“little nun”) was famously invented in Cabo San Lucas, and consists of a slightly chilled serving of rompope topped with a floater of coffee-flavored Kahlua.

It’s delicious.

Ponche Navideño

Christmas punch is a concept that seemingly knows no national boundaries. In Sweden, they call it glogg, an onamatopoetic name that mimics the sounds the spicy mulled wine makes as it slides down one’s throat. In Mexico, the name–ponche navideño–is much more straightforward. It means exactly what it is, a warm Christmas punch. And it does pack one, especially if you’re adding adult-friendly regional ingredients like tequila or mezcal.

At heart, though, this is a fruit based punch, and the fruits–particularly tejocotes–give it its unmistakable flavor. Tejocotes are sourced from a uniquely Mexican species of hawthorn trees that was only recently made legal for export to the U.S., although Americans are unlikely to find them (or try them) anywhere except Mexican holiday and Day of the Dead celebrations (when they’re popular as offerings to returning spirits).

Add apples, guavas, hibiscus flowers and cinnamon to your tejocote base, boil with water and cane sugar, spike with tequila or mezcal, and you’re ready to salute the season, Cabo style.

Better yet, let someone else make it for you, and deliver it straight to your hammock. You are on vacation, after all.

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:  Rompope Santa Clara

Upcoming Events Calendar

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

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 3 – 16

21st WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 6 – 9

Luxe Life Los Cabos Jazz Experience – Nov. 7 – 11

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

Sabor a Cabo Rural Tasting – Dec. 8

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

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

 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

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

20th Annual Baja Hog Rally – Feb. 20 – 24

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

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

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

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

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced