Juvenal Arias Pérez, the lifetime chronicler of Rosarito, announced that the traditional Fiesta de las Fronteras horseback and walking parade is under review to be declared cultural heritage of Baja California.

If approved, it would become the first intangible cultural asset in Rosarito to receive this recognition. The iconic Rosarito Hotel was the first tangible site in the city to be declared cultural heritage by the state.

Arias Pérez recalled that last year, a formal request was submitted to Baja California’s Cultural Heritage Preservation Commission to grant heritage status to the Fiesta de las Fronteras, which has marked 36 years of history and tradition.

The petition is backed by the historical significance of the event and the strong sense of ownership expressed by participants, who see it as a true celebration of the people.

“The historical background lies in the division of the inter-mission boundary line, which existed in two different locations in Rosarito,” said Arias Pérez. “We compiled a historical record of the origins and evolution of the event, including the perspectives of those who consider it the people’s celebration.”

An official declaration would not only validate the cultural importance of the event but also open the door to funding opportunities for its preservation.

“We hope for support to help preserve this tradition and prevent it from fading away,” Arias Pérez said. “Especially for continuing to offer free meals, which is becoming increasingly difficult due to limited resources.”

He added that heritage recognition would also carry responsibilities, particularly in promoting the event as a tourism draw.

“Ideally, tourism packages could include visits or participation in the event, allowing more people to discover this piece of Rosarito’s history,” he concluded.