8 Can’t-Miss Acapulco Events in 2017

After a stellar summer season in Acapulco—when the city welcomed more than 690,000 visitors—things have cooled a bit during the fall season.

Certainly, two direct-hit hurricanes in the U.S. have altered the travel plans of many Americans. Meanwhile, Mexico muddles its way through its own natural disaster challenges, causing some travelers to take a wait and see attitude about heading south of the border.

But If you have been considering a trip to Mexico, now might be the perfect time to book your Acapulco getaway.

Ernesto Rodríguez Escalona, the Tourism Secretary for Guerrero state has noted that none of the hotels, restaurants and tourist establishments in Acapulco have sustained any significant damage from hurricanes or earthquakes and are (and have been) ready to welcome guests.

What’s more, while summer occupancies averaged 67 percent and reached as high as 93 percent, fall occupancies have trended somewhat lower, making it much easier to find room availability and deals.

Additionally, visitors worried about security should note that the federal government in partnership with private entities has recently established a new Tourist Police presence in Acapulco.

During the summer season, Acapulco police deployed 1,740 policemen, 250 police vehicles, two helicopters and, for the first time, drones to monitor the area’s main beaches.

READ MORE: Big Boost in Cruise Ship Arrivals in Acapulco

Still not convinced? Here are eight amazing events unfolding in Acapulco this year that will have you pushing the “confirm” button on your travel plans.

Pirata Rush
October 22-23, 2017
Everyone knows Acapulco has a gorgeous beachfront setting. But the beach antics at Pirata Rush—a massive obstacle course—will have you seeing la playa in a whole new light. A marathon ocean swim, a beach marathon and more than 15 challenging obstacles all unfold along the powder-white beaches of Acapulco. Pirate apparel is not required but certainly welcome. Do you have what it takes to be a high seas pirate?

Carmina Burana 2017
October 27, 2017
Sponsored by the Mexican Red Cross and Imperial World Forum, the National Ballet of Hungary visits Acapulco with two amazing performances—Carmen and Carmina Burana—in one evening. In particular, the ballet company’s re-mastered version of Carmina Burana is worth a visit. Set in the Hungarian countryside, the ballet depicts the story of an angel who accidentally drops from the sky and decides to stay on earth after he falls in love with a local woman. The ballet provides a poignant Hungarian take on the original the poems of Carmina Burana.

54^th Open Senior Acapulco 2017
October 30-November 4, 2017
Originally founded in 1964 and now in its 54^th year, the Open Senior Acapulco is the oldest tennis event in Mexico. Combining top-notch tennis action with the scenic vistas of Acapulco, this ITF-approved Senior Circuit event has starred numerous former Grey Cup champions.

Ballet Folklórico de Amalia Hernández
November 19, 2017
This year is a special year for Mexico City-based Ballet Folklorico as they celebrate what would have been the 100^th birthday of founder Amalia Hernadez. (Even Google got into the act in September with a Ballet Folklorico-inspired Google Doodle.) The ballet company’s touring arm presents a special performance dedicated to the memory of Hernandez at the Resort Mundo Imperial—formerly the Fairmont Acapulco Princess—this November.

13^th Acapulco Salsa Congress 2017
November 30-December 3, 2017
Whether you prefer to watch or perform, there will be plenty of red-hot dance moves at the annual Acapulco Salsa Congress, which takes place at the Grand Hotel Acapulco. Attracting local performers as well as international dance companies, the hotel is offering special packages for people who want to enjoy a full plate of weekend course of salsa merriment.

Trópico Festival de la Costa
December 8-10, 2017
If your motto is “will travel for music festivals,” be sure to add Tropico Festival de la Costa to your must-see list. Last year’s festival attracted more than 30 artists from a dozen countries around the world. The event unfolds at the Hotel Princess Mundo Imperial, where the lively pool parties are a highlight. But be sure to purchase a weekend hotel package for the best access.

Acapulco Festival del Bienestar
December 2-3, 2017
Bienestar (literally well-being in Spanish) is the ultimate wellness festival located in an idyllic seaside setting. Open to the general public, the festival takes place at the Jardines Los Cororanes hotel and features four yoga classes, a QiGong class and two guided meditations in addition to live music, and local artisan exhibits.

Gala de Pirotecnia 2017
December 31, 2017
Many would argue that there is no better time to see Acapulco’s beautiful Bahia St. Lucia than on New Year’s Eve when spectacular pyrotechnics are shot up over the bay. Fifteen platforms are set up along the coast, but many are hosted by area hotels, so advance room and restaurant reservations are highly recommended.

For more information on what to do and see in Acapulco, visit www.visitacapulco.travel. 

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