Do you feel it? There’s a chill starting in the air… it’s time to start planning a winter getaway to Puerto Vallarta!
You know that Puerto Vallarta has beaches, sunshine and great resorts, but this Mexican vacay hotspot is much more than just a beach getaway. This popular sun destination offers a multitude of cultural experiences that will enrich your family holiday time in the sun. Here’s just a sample of the many opportunities to enjoy Puerto Vallarta culture.
Many Ways to Enjoy Puerto Vallarta Culture Experiences
Aside from being one of the most important culinary destinations in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta has many events throughout the year promoting the local and international cuisine of the city. Each year between October to May, Puerto Vallarta is home to some of Mexico’s most important food and wine festivals, as well as several other important festivals and celebrations. Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty is a source of inspiration for chefs from Mexico and around the world who create an exciting amalgam of flavors that blend traditional Mexican ingredients with contemporary tastes from around the globe.
Vallarta-Nayarit Gastronomica
From October 23rd to 26th, Vallarta-Nayarit Gastronomica 2016 takes place offering a feast of flavours with Chef Jordi Rocca, a 3 Michelin star chef from from El Celler de Can Roca, winner of Best Restaurant of the World.
International Gourmet Festival
In November Puerto Vallarta’s International Gourmet Festival, celebrates its 22nd edition. It features a world-class dining experience, with guest chefs from the international gourmet scene participating, enriching this great celebration of good food with their sensational art in contemporary cuisine. This event is a unique experience where chefs surprise visitors with their latest trends, creations and secret recipes.
Day of the Dead
From October 28th to November 2nd, join in as Puerto Vallarta celebrates Day of the Dead festivities across the city. Visitors will want to try the Pan de Muerto, see the Decorated boats in honor of deceased captains, visit art galleries and their Day of the Dead exhibitions, catch a Xiutla folkloric ballet show or watch the “La Caravana de la Muerte” Parade.
Revolution Day
Join in as Puerto Vallarta celebrates Revolution Day on November 20th, with colorful grand parades, and festive parties as well as patriotic speeches and official ceremonies.
International Marlin and Saltfish fishing tournament
For fishermen, be sure to check out the annual international Marlin and Saltfish fishing tournament from November 12th, where you’ll be able to fish the best marlin and sailfish in our oceans with your bare hands.
Fiesta de Guadalupe
On December 12th, one of the most celebrated holidays in Puerto Vallarta, the Fiesta de Guadalupe, honors the appearance of the “Queen of Mexico” in 1501 as well as the day that Puerto Vallarta was founded. The midnight ceremony in Mexico City is televised nationwide as she is serenaded with Mariachi and dancers who chant to the spirits and continue to dance the next day in front of the Basilica. Hotels throughout Puerto Vallarta commemorate this famous image on property with statues and flowers. After the religious ceremony, there will be celebrations on the Malecon with fireworks, and a variety of street food vendors offering Mexican delicacies.
Feliz Navidad
Have you ever wanted to celebrate Christmas away from home? Puerto Vallarta is filled with celebrations before and during La Navidad, the are processions throughout the streets to symbolize Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. People of all ages gather in El Centro on Christmas Eve at Our Lady of Guadalupe church with piñatas and colorful clothing, to listen to music and partake in the exciting festivities that carry on into the night.
New Year’s Eve
Ring in the New Year along the Malecon, with fireworks, dancing and music. Join in with the locals as they celebrate New Year’s Eve by honoring the Catholic traditions of the Spaniards who came centuries ago by eating the 12 grapes of happiness, one grape every time the clock strikes at midnight.
Twitter Party + Giveaway
Join us on Wednesday, September 28th, at 9:30 PM ET to learn more about this amazing Destination at the #WeVisitVallarta Twitter Chat.
Prizes: 4 x beach bag packs ( approx. retail value $100 USD)
One Grand prize of 3 night/ 4 day stay at one of Puerto Vallarta’s resorts for 2, including air from major US/Canada Destinations.
Make sure to follow your hosts @PuertoVallarta, @RossanaWyatt @CammiPham, as well as chat sponsors @AlmarResort @MantamarBC, and follow along using #WeVisitVallarta! NO RSVP!
Disclosure: The Travelling Mom is participating in a sponsored campaign hosted by Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board and received compensation for this post. As always, all opinions expressed are my own.
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
- 8 of the most spectacular BC roadtrips - March 28, 2024
- 21 fantastic things to do in Whistler in summer - March 23, 2024
- 7 unique places to experience Ainu culture in Hokkaido - March 22, 2024
