This Saturday, May 23, the much-anticipated “Viñadas 2026” program officially begins with its first event at Salvia Blanca, located within the Contemplación development in Valle de Guadalupe. Now in its third consecutive year, the initiative continues to shine a spotlight on the region’s growing tourism, gastronomy, wine, and cultural scenes, all thanks to the collective efforts of more than 280 brands under the Valle de Guadalupe Entrepreneurs Association (EDVG).
At a recent press conference, organizers, chefs, winery representatives, and tourism leaders emphasized the power of collaboration to further cement Valle de Guadalupe as one of Mexico’s premier destinations for wine, food, and travel.
Launched in 2024, “Viñadas” was designed to create immersive experiences that blend wine, food, agriculture, fishing, livestock, culture, and tourism. Fast forward to 2026, and the project has seen impressive growth. This year’s calendar features 19 registered events including new gastronomic experiences, festivals, craft beer tastings, and rural and cultural activities. Organizers say the mission is to build community and foster collaboration among entrepreneurs, wineries, CANIRAC, hoteliers, Provino, and other key sectors across Ensenada and the valley.
The season’s opener, “Maridaje de Primavera” (Spring Pairing), will take place this Saturday, May 23, starting at 3:00 PM at Salvia Blanca Cocina / Vinos Contemplación. Guests can expect wine tastings, exceptional food, live music, and a family-friendly atmosphere surrounded by native plants, lavender fields, vineyards, and breathtaking panoramic valley views.
On the menu, Chef Tonatiuh Anzures is celebrating regional seafood with San Quintín oysters, clams, a tasting of local shellfish, and a massive paella crafted to serve over 100 people. Organizers also gave a shout-out to local suppliers and agricultural producers from Maneadero, underscoring the importance of championing regional ingredients.
In addition, winery participation has more than doubled. Originally expecting nine, organizers now have 18 wineries confirmed for the opening event. Representatives from the wineries agreed on coming together as a community to showcase the incredible work happening in Baja California’s wine region.
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According to EDVG, “Viñadas” is designed to offer something for everyone from intimate pairing dinners to large-scale festivals so every visitor can find an experience that suits their style.
The press conference also highlighted Valle de Guadalupe’s growing economic impact. The region currently generates between 9,000 and 10,000 jobs, primarily in tourism, wine, gastronomy, lodging, commerce, and services. Organizers made a point to recognize the historical contributions of farmers, producers, winemakers, indigenous communities, and entrepreneurs who have helped transform Valle de Guadalupe into a top-tier destination.
Upcoming events for “Viñadas 2026” were also announced including:
- Valle Brewery Festival featuring a wine pavilion, crafts, and cultural activities
- The return of the Ensenada Fish & Seafood Festival
- Expo Agro Valle de Guadalupe
- New experiences focused on rural culture, agriculture, gastronomy, and regional traditions
Organizers noted that ongoing working groups continue to address key issues like signage, security, infrastructure, and orderly development. Close coordination is underway with CANIRAC, Proturismo de Ensenada, SECTURE BC, Provino, hotel associations, transporters, business chambers, and others aiming to strengthen the destination from multiple angles.
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Efforts are also underway to strengthen the tourist experience in Valle de Guadalupe and Ensenada, with a focus on training, improved visitor services, and other strategic actions aimed at encouraging repeat visits. At the same time, officials continue to engage with media outlets, magazines, interview programs, and columnists to reinforce the region’s positive image and attract a growing number of visitors.
Authorities also underscored the need to keep making progress on key operational issues, including border crossing efficiency, travel times, and the quality of service provided to tourists attending the area’s many events and experiences.
Lastly, all Baja Californians were invited to fully explore everything Valle de Guadalupe has to offer and recognize its impact on regional development. Participants agreed that the valley should not be viewed in isolation, but rather as an integral part of the state and municipality one that carries a shared responsibility among society, business owners, and government.
“Valle de Guadalupe, Ensenada, and Baja California are much more than a single spot: we are a complete destination.”
