Ensenada Prepares for Provino’s XXVI Festival of Shellfish and New Wine

-Editorial

In the heart of Ensenada, where the Pacific breeze carries the promise of fresh seafood and world-class wines, one of Mexico’s most celebrated culinary traditions returns with renewed energy. The XXVI Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo, alongside the acclaimed Mesas Marinas by Provino, was officially announced during a press conference that gathered key leaders from the region’s gastronomic and tourism sectors.

Among those present were local authorities and industry figures, including Jared Gutiérrez López, Director of International Affairs for the Ensenada City Council; Luis Carlos Novelo Salas, president of Canirac Ensenada; and Francisco Rubio Cárdenas, president of Provino. They were joined by tourism representatives, culinary leaders, and renowned chef Benito Molina, who serves as the festival’s gastronomic coordinator.

What began 25 years ago as a casual conversation among friends in San Miguel has evolved into one of the most iconic events on Mexico’s culinary calendar. Today, the Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo stands as a vibrant celebration of Baja California’s rich maritime heritage and its globally recognized wine culture.

This year’s festivities will unfold over three days, beginning April 17 with educational workshops focused on shellfish cultivation—an opportunity to highlight sustainable aquaculture practices and the region’s deep connection to the sea. On April 18, the sixth edition of Mesas Marinas will offer an elevated, intimate dining experience where gastronomy and wine meet storytelling. Each table will host 20 guests and feature a carefully curated collaboration: one aquaculture producer, one winery, and two chefs—one local and one guest—working together to create a unique culinary narrative.

The grand finale will take place on April 19, when approximately 3,000 attendees are expected to gather for the main festival. This impressive showcase will bring together 80 wineries, 55 restaurants, eight aquaculture producers, 20 local and invited chefs, and three culinary schools. Over the course of the event, an estimated three tons of seafood will be prepared and served, highlighting the abundance and quality of Baja California’s coastal offerings.

Adding to the excitement, internationally acclaimed chefs such as Drew Deckman and Javier Plascencia will participate alongside a diverse lineup of local, national, and international culinary talent. Their presence reinforces the festival’s reputation as a hub for innovation and excellence in contemporary Mexican cuisine.

Chef Benito Molina emphasized that this is not only his favorite event in Ensenada but also a model that has inspired similar festivals in other regions, including San Diego. His enthusiasm reflects a broader sentiment shared by the culinary community: that this festival is more than an event—it is a cultural movement that celebrates identity, collaboration, and the flavors of the sea.

Organizers also highlighted a strengthened security protocol for this year’s edition. Coordinated efforts between local and federal authorities will ensure safe travel and a secure environment for all attendees. These measures underscore Baja California’s ongoing commitment to enhancing tourism and providing visitors with a welcoming and worry-free experience.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Valle de Guadalupe, the Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo continues to position Ensenada as a premier destination for culinary tourism. It is an invitation to indulge in the region’s finest wines, savor the freshest seafood, and connect with the people and stories behind every dish.

For those eager to be part of this unforgettable experience, tickets and reservations are now available through Provino’s official platform: https://clubprovino.mx/evento/mesas-marinas-2026/