Mexico spring events feature surf competition

Mazatlan, Mexico has been in the news around the world of travel for all the wrong reasons. Cruise lines stopped going there because of crime incidents that were of concern not long ago. But many Gadling readers who have been there tell a much different story.

Theirs is a story of a beautiful place with great people, fabulous food and a lot to do and see. As Mazatlan prepares to celebrate what they call a “Vibrant Spring Calendar of Events” its only fair to feature their side of the story too.

A good first stop if considering travel to Mazatlan would be their web site, GoMazatlan, where a great deal of information is available. A quick click to AboutMazatlan and we see several airlines fly there every day and that there is not one day of the year less than 80 degrees. That’s a good start.

Mazatlán hosts a year-round calendar of events that include international sporting tournaments, culinary fairs, eclectic cultural festivals and holiday celebrations.

New this year, is the Quiksilver Surf Clásico Mazatlán, an international surf, music and fashion festival taking place June 1 – 5. The five-day event brings the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) 2011 Star event schedule where athletes will compete for an $85,000 purse. Back on shore, spectators enjoy a full schedule of fashion shows, culinary fairs and live music performances.

“We are proud to showcase such a diverse array of spring events that reflects the vibrant spirit of Mazatlán and its people,” says Carlos Berdegué, vice president of the Mazatlán Hotel Association. “Premier events like these alongside our rich heritage draw thousands of visitors who are welcomed into the warmth and vitality of daily life in Mazatlán.”

Here are some other events coming up this Spring

Mazatlán’s International Bike Week 2011 runs April 27 through May 1 when more than 15,000 Motorcycle fans gear up for five days of high-octane fun and adventure for the 16th annual event. Featuring bike parades, stunt exhibitions, drag races, custom bike competitions, accessories and apparel expos, as well as live music, entertainment, local restaurant sponsors, free contests and giveaways this one looks like a lot of fun.

Jose Limon Dance Festival – The 135-year-old Angela Peralta Theater sets the stage for one of the year’s most anticipated performing arts events April 29th through May 5th. The festival honors the legacy of pioneering Sinaloa dancer and choreographer, Jose Limón and includes expositions, literary presentations and the Summit of Academies, a nationwide assembly of dancers.

ArtWalk is for lovers of fine art who will find much to explore on the first Friday in May. Old Mazatlán’s art galleries and workshops will be open for free tours, exhibit debuts, and lectures by visiting and local artists.

Marina Mazatlán Fishing Tournament Mazatlan is recognized worldwide as a first-class fishing destination,drawing top anglers from around the world for the premier Marina Mazatlán tournament. Complete with festive dinner receptions, onshore events and an official awards ceremony, international anglers are sure to be hooked.

Not just Mazatlan has events, festivals and attractions open and ready for travelers, Cozumel, Mexico also has beaches, shopping, activities, Scuba diving, and more. Check their web site out too at ThisIsCozumel.com.

Flickr photo by marlinphoto

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