Events & Festivals

The following is a list of some of the more interesting events and and popular festivals one can see and/or participate in during a trip to Puerto Vallarta.

December to January is the whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta. Every year a huge number of visitors gather around the Banderas Bay to watch the migrating Humpback whales.

Day of the Kings (Dia de los Reyes) January 6, is celebrated as the traditional Mexican gift giving day for children, in honor of the Three Kings who visited baby Jesus. A sweet roll with a plastic doll of Baby Jesus hidden inside is shared by family and friends.

Throughout march as Lent approaches, Puerto Vallarta celebrates with colorful parades, cockfights, food, dancing, fireworks and mariachi music.

Fiestas de Mayo is a traditional Fair, complete with stalls, exhibitions, performances, games, music and other attractions.

Puerto Vallarta is an important breeding ground for several endangered, protected species of sea turtles. Every year between June and August the government implements a community wide ecological preservation and protection program. It includes educational projects for children and adults to participate in.

The 16th of september is when Mexico observes its 1821 independence from Spain with speech making, flag waving, fireworks, horse races, folk dances, mariachi bands and parades through the center of town with decorations in Mexico's national colors.

"The Day of the Dead" is a tradition celebrated every year on Nov 1st and 2nd by Mexicans. It is one of the most important holidays of the Mexican Catholic calendar. This tradition goes back to pre hispanic practices. They believe that once a year the dead come to earth to visit their loved ones. Mexicans dedicate these days to greet and host their visitors and make their stay on earth enjoyable. Special food and drink are served and candles and flower decorations are put up to welcome the celestial visitors.

Fiesta del Mar is a full-scale celebration of annual activities including the Boat Show, Puerto Vallarta Sailfish Tournament, Fine Arts Festival, Gourmet Dining Festival, and Governor's golf tournaments.

Día de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe or Guadalupe Day is celebrated on December 12 and processions are made to the church for a special mass devoted to the Virgin. Some larger groups have folklore dancers, floats, singing, and even fireworks following their brief mass.

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