Baja California Unveils Extensive Cultural and Tourism Program for Easter Holiday

-Editorial 

Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda presented Baja California’s cultural and tourism program for the Easter holiday, highlighting a range of activities designed to attract families, visitors, and residents to the state’s restored public spaces and cultural venues.

Speaking during her morning press conference, Ávila emphasized that while Easter is traditionally a period of reflection for people of faith, the state’s agenda aims to combine cultural experiences, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly events. “We want families to enjoy moments together in spaces that have been rehabilitated and are now open to the community,” she said.

Esmeralda Ceballos Vega, director of Performing Arts and Festivals, outlined activities in Mexicali, including music and circus performances at Parque Laguna on April 5, and musical tributes in the city’s historic downtown on April 4–5. In Tijuana, a guitar ensemble from the Centro de Artes Musicales and the Baja California Orchestra will perform on April 9, complemented by the Felimus festival in Ensenada. Children’s theater and storytelling will be offered on Holy Thursday and Good Friday at Parque Esperanto, Laguna México, and historic centers, while the Central Public Library continues its “In Spring, the Library Awaits You” program with workshops for children and adolescents.

Tourism Secretary Miguel Ángel Badiola Montaño highlighted Baja California’s growing national and international reputation, noting seven nominations at the Food and Travel magazine Reader Awards. The state was recognized as Mexico’s Best Culinary Destination, while Lunario in Ensenada earned the award for Best Sustainable Restaurant. Badiola Montaño also invited residents to vote by April 20 on lomejormexico.com for the “Lo Mejor de México” awards, where Baja California holds five nominations.

Recent events demonstrate the economic and tourism impact of the state’s initiatives. The San Felipe 250 race, held earlier this year, attracted teams from 10 countries and 22 U.S. states, drawing an estimated 125,000 visitors, achieving full hotel occupancy, and generating an economic impact of 200 million pesos, a significant increase from the 8 million pesos recorded the previous year.

Looking ahead, Baja California’s tourism calendar continues with the 26th Festival of Shells and New Wine in Ensenada on April 19, which will feature 80 wineries and local producers. From April 24–26, the 78th edition of the traditional Regatta will take place, further reinforcing the state as a leading destination for international sports and culinary events.

To encourage tourism, Badiola Montaño promoted the free digital card “Sé Turista en tu Baja California,” available through the official portal seturista.bc.gob.mx. The card provides discounts starting at 10 percent at hotels, restaurants, museums, and other tourist businesses, allowing families to save while exploring the region’s cultural, gastronomic, and recreational offerings.

Governor Ávila concluded that Baja California’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and extensive tourism infrastructure make it a destination for both domestic and international visitors, combining tradition, leisure, and family-oriented activities during the Easter holiday season.