Fresh from hosting the 2011 World Tourism Day on Sept. 27 — and from welcoming new daily nonstop service from Dallas/Fort Worth by American Eagle, which launched on June 9 — the city of Mazatlan is gearing up for the fall and winter travel seasons with an array of activities and special events.
Mazatlan’s baseball season, which kicks off in October and runs through the winter, provides sports fans with an opportunity to see live excitement every week at the city’s baseball stadium, Estadio Teodoro Mariscal.
Film lovers might consider a visit during the International Photography Symposium, slated for Oct. 27-29, which attracts award-winning photographers from Mexico and abroad.
Travel industry insiders — including travel agents, wholesalers and tour operators — are among the attendees during Gran Fiesta Amigos, an annual event designed to honor those who promote tourism in the destination. The four-day gathering, which starts on Oct. 31, includes festive dinners, live entertainment, tours and socializing with local tourism officials.
November is an especially sporting month in Mazatlan. Anglers descend upon the city on Nov. 5 for the El Cid Dorado Shout-Out Fishing Tournament, which is hosted by El Cid Resorts and features a dinner reception and award ceremony following a competitive day of sport-fishing. During the El Cid International Golf Tournament, which takes place Nov. 11-13 at the 27-hole championship course at El Cid Granada Golf & Country Club, golfers can try their luck on the greens. And from Nov. 24-27, auto-lovers might consider attending Expocar Mazatlan, when international competitors show their skills during a fast-paced race at the Autodromo Mazatlan, while race-car exhibits, auto tech showcases and concerts provide additional fun for visitors who are not behind the wheel.
On Dec. 3, racing of a different kind takes place during the 13th annual Pacifico Marathon, which brings runners and their fans to the city for two memorable days of competition that includes a 5K, 10K and full marathon.
Clients interested in attending the city’s biggest festival, Carnival, should be making their plans as soon as possible. Slated for Feb. 16-21, the 114th annual gathering for this lively event will attract thousands of revelers from around the world, and hotels sell out early. Major highlights include the crowning of the Carnival king and queen and a colorful parade along the malecon (boardwalk), as well as lots of live music, cuisine and fireworks.
Mazatlan offers a variety of activities, regardless of the time of year. The historic center, which is home to an ever greater number of buildings restored to their 19th-century beauty, is increasingly a cultural hub. Galleries, restaurants and shops line the streets here, while the iconic Angela Peralta Theater, which dates to 1874, hosts live music, dance and theater productions year-round.
The Details
Mazatlan Tourismwww.gomazatlan.com
