Mexico: Fiestas del Mar celebrates seafood and wine in Baja

Travelers who like to eat and drink their way through a weekend getaway should check out Fiestas del Mar, a south-of-the-border celebration of wine and seafood in Ensenada, Mexico.

The event, April 20 at Ensenada’s Hotel Coral and Marina, will focus on Baja’s growing culinary marketplace. Events include a ceviche contest, wine and Champagne tastings, hot air balloon rides and live entertainment.

“We created Fiestas del Mar to celebrate Ensenada’s unique culture and flavor,” said Lizette Sanchez, director of sales and public relations. “We’re bringing together music, family entertainment, the region’s finest wines and a variety of interpretations of one of our iconic dishes, ceviche.”

Amateur chefs will face off in the hotel’s gardens at 4 p.m. before a panel of expert judges, including Baja chef Sabina Bandera Gonzales of La Guerrerense. Wine tastings will feature more than 15 regional wineries, and guests can select their favorite for a People’s Choice Award.

The best ceviches and wines will be recognized during an 8 p.m. awards ceremony.

Dueling Beatles versus Rolling Stones tribute bands will open the fiesta and play throughout the evening, while visitors sample a variety of ceviches and wines from Valle de Guadalupe and Valle de Santo Tomas.

Tickets are available online or at the hotel from $35 for general admission to $135 for VIP concert seating. Special hotel packages on April 20 with one night in an ocean view suite, two tickets to the concert, two tickets to the Champagne area and spa credit are available for $410 on a limited basis. Info: 800-862-9020.

Boaters are welcome to dock in one of Coral Marina’s 350-slip moorings. Shuttle transportation to and from the San Diego area is also available upon request.

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