Puerto Vallarta is no ordinary resort town. It’s a magical place where Mexican traditions come alive and 21st-century ideas are accepted. The lure of its clear blue waters, scenic tropical landscape, and charming colonial villages and plazas captivated celebrities and pleasure-seekers in the 50s and 60s. Since then, the resort city’s charms have never waned. With a population of over 400,000, including adjoining towns and seasonal residents, Puerto Vallarta’s historical past and colorful present are steeped in cultural tradition and artistic expressions, making it one of the world’s most enchanting and fascinating beach resorts.
Strategically straddled against the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains on Mexico’s Pacific coast in the state of Jalisco at approximately the same latitude as Hawaii. Believed to have been discovered by Herman Cortes and a popular pit stop for pirates in the 17th century, it became a municipality in the mid to late 19th century and has seen consistent growth ever since. Cobblestone alleys, elaborate cathedrals, lively plazas, thriving markets, and the best dining options of any seaside town make Puerto Vallarta a destination that has something for everyone and rarely disappoints.
A visit to Puerto Vallarta might begin and end on the beach, but what you do in between is what lingers in your heart and mind, which includes a year-round calendar of festivals that honors cultural traditions, gastronomic excellence, artistic ingenuity, and musical expression. Best of all, visitors and locals can rub elbows for a completely immersive and authentic experience that will leave you enchanted, enriched, and destined to return.
Dia de los Muertos
Perhaps the most brilliant, emotional, and mesmerizing of Mexican traditions, Dia de los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta places you in the center of this vibrant and exalted holiday which honors the memory of departed loved ones who are said to descend from the heavens on this day, Delight in the bursts of marigold and floral draped, candle-lit ofrendas, culminating in a procession which begins at Colonia 5 de Diciembre and ending at Los Arcos de Malecon. Mingle with locals as school bands, charros, dancers, and citizens of all ages prance along the parade route. Marvel at the ingenious installations along the malecon, including the tallest Calavera Catrina in the world, standing 90 feet tall. Indulge in face painting and special foods such as Pan de Muerto while admiring all the Catrinas towering over the sea and the cacophony of color and sound that fills the balmy air late into the night.
Take some time to visit one of the city’s cemeteries to view opulent ofrendas as families visit lost loved ones to share a meal, browse old photos, or chat and reminisce about their lives. This is not a macabre celebration of death – but a joyful celebration of life and the beauty of memories that live for eternity.
You can check out several simultaneous Dia de los Muertos events across the city, such as Rhythms of the Night Celebration or Isla de los Muertos Festival, which includes live music from popular local artists.
Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Week
Enjoy the myriad of new and traditional dishes at this annual food festival. Over 60 restaurants offer special menus so everyone can sample and savor the region’s delectable cuisine – from seafood and gourmet innovations to local favorites. Participating restaurants offer three-course menus with appetizers, a main course, and a dessert at reduced prices. This is the culinary event you don’t want to miss.
Festival Gourmet International
This international gastronomy festival showcases Mexico’s creative and diverse culinary culture. At Puerto Vallarta’s top restaurants, hotels, and resorts, you can sample incredible foods and meet over 600 local, international, and celebrity chefs. The Gourmet Festival highlights the epicurean culture of the Jalisco and Nayarit regions and showcases Mexican hospitality and the best gourmet cuisine in the world.
Carnival
Many people plan their vacations around this colorful celebration where incredible floats, elaborate masks, and awe-inspiring stilt walkers take over the streets. Come dance and party with over 30,000 residents and tourists who gather each year to enjoy the spectacle.
Historic Downtown Art Walk
Come and explore the best art galleries and exhibitions in the city’s historic center during this highly anticipated event. Join a self-guided art walk every Wednesday evening from 6:00-10:00 pm. Discover a mix of traditional, folk, and cutting-edge contemporary art by Mexican and international artists and sample some gourmet mixology and cocktails at 13 participating galleries and open houses.
Mexico Independence Day
Observe with delight as Mexican Charros (Mexican cowboys) parade through the town in the morning wearing traditional gear, featuring elaborately decorated jackets, pants, and sombreros. Marvel at the traditional displays of roping and bullfighting plus plenty of good food and dancing.
On Independence Eve (September 15), the central plaza gets packed with people for the traditional “el grito,” or cry for independence. This is when you’ll hear cries of “Viva Mexico” followed by an impressive firework display, music, dancing, an abundance of food, and a great atmosphere. The festivities continue the next day with more fireworks, parades, and Mexican-style merrymaking.
Vallarta Gay Pride
Puerto Vallarta is recognized worldwide as an LGBTQ mecca that receives local and global visitors, This is the premier LGBTQ event in the region and the chance to mingle with wonderful folks from all over the world. There are a plethora of free shows, a parade, and non-profit events.
Sea Turtle Release
From July to December, Puerto Vallarta’s pristine beaches transform into hatching grounds for various species of sea turtles, including the Olive Ridley, Green, and Hawksbill turtles. The peak season runs from August to November, making it the best time to visit to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle.
Brewmaster Craft Beer Fest
Now in its 7th year, Brewmasters is dedicated to the master brewers of Puerto Vallarta, held during the domestic holiday weekend of November. Breweries from Puerto Vallarta are in attendance along with invited craft brands from Guadalajara, Oaxaca, and other regions of Mexico. Also on hand are agave-distilled beverage bars, a cocktail bar, and food vendors. Local bands and DJs keep the energy high and the atmosphere a non-stop fiesta.
Vallarta Eats
Ok, this is not a festival, unless you consider eating the hands-down best tacos and food in Puerto Vallarta a festival. Taco novices and veterans alike will get an up close and personal look and taste of the best street food, tacos, and restaurants of Old Town and Zona Romantica. Throw in a paleta, tortilla factory, street markets, and Mexican candy, and you can unequivocally claim you are a Vallarta food connoisseur. Choose from an array of pre-planned guided tours or develop a custom itinerary just for you. Trust me, this is worth every peso. Visit www.vallartaeats.com.
For a reliable basecamp to explore all of Vallarta’s food and festivals without breaking the bank, check out the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. The property features, restaurants, bars, a fabulous spa, a wide sandy beach, convention facilities, and friendly staff.
For more information and a complete calendar of events, go to www.visitpuertovallarta.com.