Rocky Point, Mexico is a preferred vacation destination for countless reasons. Some visitors come to Puerto Peñasco for the sublime beaches, world-class golf and classic sportfishing, while others are seeking a laidback escape from the daily grind. Whether you love the town’s vibrant nightlife or the great outdoors, there are tons of exciting Puerto Peñasco events to keep your itinerary full.
Live music is something of a focal point for everyone in Rocky Point. On any given day of any month, you can hear local and touring bands belt out originals and covers at restaurants, cantinas and oceanfront bars throughout Puerto Peñasco. Local hotspots include Boo Bar, Sonoran Sky Resort, Banditos, JJ’s Cantina and Beach Bum. Blues, rock and roll, Mexican rock and other musical stylings are all on offer!
One of the biggest names on the Puerto Peñasco music scene is Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers, who have an annual January Jam Concert (featuring musicians like Tramps & Thieves, Black Moods and Black Bottom Lighters). For nearly ten years, January Jam has been offering fans — many of whom fly in just for the event– the opportunity to enjoy good times and incredible music.
For another taste of Americana desert rock, visitors can look forward to Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers’s Circus Mexicus concert, a four-day music experience featuring a medley of big names like Fayuca, The Samples, The Pistoleros, Sand Rubies and Jason DeVore. The 2017 Circus Mexicus is scheduled for June 9-12.
If you’re a fishing enthusiast and want to earn some serious bragging rights, you can’t miss the Cholla Bay Sportsmen’s Club Annual Fishing Derby, which has been a solid fixture in Rocky Point for the past 62 years. The derby is a three-stage competition that typically starts in late April, and culminates in a fish fry and awards presentation. There are 14 categories of fish and anglers can fish offshore or try their luck surf casting. Puerto Peñasco is famous for world-class fishing, with anglers pulling in outsized red snapper, sea bass, grouper and pinto bass.
JJ’s Cantina hosts the ever-popular Angler of the Year Fishing Tournament each year – another three phase tourney that starts in February and finishes in November. Contestants accrue points based on the weight of their catches throughout each phase of the tournament.
The Links at Las Palomas golf resort is a 72 par 18-hole championship course that sidles up to the Sea of Cortez, and every year it hosts a prestigious golf tournament. The three-day Las Palomas Anniversary golf tournament offers chances to win up to $25,000 and great prizes like a 4-day package in their luxury condos. The 11th Annual Anniversary Tournament at Las Palomas Beach & Golf Resort will be held on May 12-14, so if you plan to enter or simply want to attend as a spectator, be sure to save the date.
The Annual Cholla Bay Sportsmen’s Club Golf Tournament is also played at Las Palomas, but the Callaway-scored tourney is geared more toward fun. Regardless of your handicap, golfers can still win prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place, as well as prizes for Longest Drive. Moving into its 9th year, the Sportsmen’s Club Golf Tournament is generally held in February.
If you’re a die-hard foodie or simply love Mexican cuisine, you can’t miss Rocky Point’s annual “Taste of Peñasco” Culinary & Cultural Festival. Typically held in February every year, this popular event draws huge crowds who come to sip on wine as they sample some of the best cuisine offered by the area’s most talented chefs. There’s live music, dancing, and people’s choice competitions for the “best chef” and “best salsa.” The festival is free to the public, and raffle tickets are on sale for chances to win amazing gifts like hotel stays, beautiful artwork by local craftsman, and other valuable gifts donated by local businesses. The best part is that all proceeds benefit the Red Cross, 2 Fish Ministries and the Santa Claus Club. Come for an afternoon of family fun, tasty eats, and chances to purchase unique jewelry, clothing, artwork, sculptures, photos and other items made by local artisans. Food vendors this year included Chef Miguel Quintana at Peñasco del Sol, the Satisfied Frog, El Bucanero, Al Capone’s and dozens of others! Bring your appetite and get ready to dazzle your taste buds at this popular fundraising event.
The Rocky Point Rally is another notable community event that’s touted as “the greatest motorcycle fiesta just south of the border.” Now in its 17th consecutive year, this rally is an action-packed four days of activities including a motorcycle parade (featuring classic and modern bikes), beach concerts, sunset boat cruises, charity poker tournaments, and much more. The 2017 Rocky Point Rally is slated for November 9th – 12th, so mark your calendars for this unforgettable weekend!
Locals and tourists alike rave about Puerto Peñasco’s Mermaid Market – an Artisan’s Street Market held the first and third Saturdays at the Shrimp Plaza in the heart of downtown Rocky Point. The Mermaid’s Market is an excellent spot to mix and mingle, meet new friends, and pick up unique gifts, clothing and crafts from regional artists. The market also partners with Integral Family Development, and donates a portion of all proceeds to help less fortunate families in the community.