A GUIDE TO THE FESTIVALS OF PUERTO VALLARTA
Puerto Vallarta, a jewel on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is not only known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, but also for its rich tradition of hosting lively and colorful festivals throughout the year. These events showcase the city’s unique blend of history, art, and food, inviting locals and visitors alike to partake in the festivities. Here is a list of some of the most popular festivals in Puerto Vallarta that are likely to be of most interest to tourists, offering a host of entertainment experiences:
FESTIVAL DE DIA DE MUERTOS – DAY OF THE DEAD FESTIVAL
The Day of the Dead Festival, held annually from October 31st to November 2nd, is a colorful and lively celebration of life and death. This Mexican tradition involves families honoring their deceased loved ones with beautifully decorated altars, known as ofrendas, adorned with candles, flowers, and food. In Puerto Vallarta, the festival features parades, live music, and dance performances, as well as workshops on traditional crafts and altar-making. This event provides a unique insight into Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
SEA TURTLE FESTIVAL
Sea Turtle Festival: Held annually in November, the Sea Turtle Festival is a unique event dedicated to the conservation and protection of these magnificent creatures. This festival takes place in various locations around Banderas Bay and offers educational activities, workshops, and opportunities to participate in the release of baby sea turtles into the ocean. Don’t miss this chance to learn more about these endangered species and their vital role in the marine ecosystem.
VALLARTA-NAYARIT GASTRONOMICA
Held in October, Vallarta-Nayarit Gastronómica is a culinary event that brings together renowned chefs, sommeliers, and mixologists from Mexico and around the world. The festival offers attendees the opportunity to participate in cooking classes, wine and tequila tastings, and gourmet dining experiences. This event is a must-visit for food lovers looking to explore the culinary delights of Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding region.
FESTIVAL GOURMET FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL
Held in November, the Puerto Vallarta Gourmet Festival is an annual culinary event that showcases the talents of local and international chefs. The festival offers a series of gourmet dining experiences, including themed dinners, cooking demonstrations, and wine tastings. This celebration of gastronomy provides an excellent opportunity for tourists to sample the diverse flavors of Puerto Vallarta and learn about the region’s culinary traditions.
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE PROCESSIONS
Taking place annually from December 1st to 12th, the Our Lady of Guadalupe Processions honor the patron saint of Mexico, the Virgin of Guadalupe. The processions feature colorful parades with participants dressed in traditional clothing, accompanied by live music, dancing, and fireworks. The event culminates on December 12th with a mass at the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, followed by celebrations throughout the city. This religious and cultural event offers tourists a glimpse into the deeply rooted faith and traditions of the Mexican people.
INTERNATIONAL FIRE WORKS FESTIVAL
The International Fireworks Festival, held every year in December, is a dazzling spectacle that lights up the skies over Puerto Vallarta. This multi-day event features international pyrotechnic teams showcasing their skills in a series of mesmerizing firework displays. The festival also includes live concerts, art exhibitions, and food stands, making it a fun-filled celebration for the entire family.
VALLARTA WINE FEST
The Vallarta Wine Fest, held in February, is a celebration of fine wines from Mexico and around the world. The event features wine tastings, wine and food pairing dinners, and seminars on wine appreciation and production. Local restaurants and participating wineries collaborate to create a unique gastronomic experience, making the Vallarta Wine Fest a must-attend event for wine enthusiasts and foodies alike.
CLASSIC ROCK FESTIVAL
Classic Rock Festival: The Classic Rock Festival, usually held in February, is a must-attend event for music lovers. This multi-day celebration features local and international bands paying tribute to the legends of classic rock, performing hits from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. Enjoy an electrifying atmosphere as you sing along to your favorite tunes, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of Puerto Vallarta’s beaches.
FESTIVAL INTERNACIONAL DE CINE EN PUERTO VALLARTA (PUERTO VALLARTA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL)
Held annually in March, the Puerto Vallarta International Film Festival showcases a diverse selection of films from around the world, with a particular focus on Mexican and Latin American cinema. The event provides a platform for emerging and established filmmakers to present their work and fosters cultural exchange between local and international attendees. In addition to film screenings, the festival features workshops, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers, providing an immersive and educational experience for film lovers.
BUCERIAS OYSTER FESTIVAL
Bucerias Oyster Festival: Taking place in April, the Bucerias Oyster Festival is a delightful culinary event held in the nearby town of Bucerias, just north of Puerto Vallarta. This festival celebrates the region’s rich bounty of fresh oysters and other seafood delicacies. Attendees can indulge in an array of mouthwatering dishes, while enjoying live music, traditional dance performances, and local art exhibitions.
VALLARTA PRIDE
Vallarta Pride, held annually in May, is a week-long event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in Puerto Vallarta. The festival features a variety of events, including parades, live music, cultural activities, and parties. Vallarta Pride is an inclusive event that aims to promote diversity, tolerance, and respect, making it a must-attend event for tourists seeking to experience Puerto Vallarta’s welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.
RESTAURANT WEEK
Held annually in May, Puerto Vallarta’s Restaurant Week is a two-week event that showcases the city’s finest restaurants, highlighting a variety of cuisines ranging from traditional Mexican to international fusion. The event is designed to promote the local culinary scene and encourage tourists and residents to experience new dining establishments and revisit old favorites.
Participating restaurants offer special three-course menus at fixed prices, making it more accessible and affordable for diners to enjoy a gourmet meal. The set menus typically include a choice of appetizer, main course, and dessert, with options to cater to different dietary preferences and tastes.
CULTURAL VALLARTA FESTIVAL
Cultural Vallarta Festival:The Cultural Vallarta Festival, held annually in May, is a week-long event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Puerto Vallarta and Mexico as a whole. This festival features an eclectic mix of activities, including folk dance performances, live music concerts, art exhibitions, and traditional workshops. Delve into the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s cultural scene and explore the myriad of artistic expressions that make this city so enchanting.
FESTIVAL DEL MARIACHI Y CHARRERIA
The Festival del Mariachi y Charrería, held in late June, is a celebration of Mexico’s traditional music and equestrian culture. The event features live mariachi performances, charro (Mexican cowboy) exhibitions, and traditional Mexican folk dancing. This festival provides a unique opportunity for tourists to experience the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta.
CONCLUSION
Puerto Vallarta’s diverse array of festivals offers a unique window into the city’s vibrant culture, heritage, and natural beauty. From the conservation-focused Sea Turtle Festival to the deeply-rooted traditions of Día de los Muertos, these events provide unforgettable experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. The festivals provide a diverse range of experiences, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the culture, traditions, and atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta while enjoying their vacation.
