Top Annual Events and Festivals in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a city that loves to celebrate, and it shows with the many annual events and festivals that take place throughout the year. From cultural celebrations to sporting events, there is always something to see and do.
If you're planning to move to this beautiful and lively coastal city on the Mexican Pacific coast, buy an investment property, or want to have a super fun vacation, in this article, we'll tell you about some of the best annual events and festivals that take place in PV every year.
Marathons are all over Mexico and this is one of the most famous ones. Held in February, this half marathon takes place in the beautiful coastal region of Riviera Nayarit, just north of Puerto Vallarta.
The course for the Riviera Nayarit Half Marathon is scenic and takes runners through some of the region's most picturesque areas. The trail winds through small towns, along the coast, and through lush tropical vegetation, providing stunning views throughout the race.
In addition to the half marathon race, the event also features 10K and 5K races. There's even a kids' race, making it a fun and inclusive event for the whole family.
The Banderas Bay International Regatta is a highly anticipated annual sailing event that attracts sailors from around the world who come to compete in a range of races and competitions.
The regatta is held in March, which is an ideal time for sailing in Puerto Vallarta. In addition to the races, this event also features a range of social gatherings, including parties, dinners, and live music performances.
The Vallarta Bird & Nature Festival is an annual event that celebrates the rich biodiversity of the Puerto Vallarta region, which is home to over 350 species of birds, including endemic and migratory species, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers.
The festival is typically held in March, and it features a range of activities and events, including birdwatching tours and nature walks, as well as workshops and talks on conservation and environmental issues.
The May Cultural Festival is an annual event that celebrates Mexico's culture, traditions, and heritage. Held in May each year, the festival features a variety of cultural events, including dance performances, concerts, art exhibits, and more.
This festival is a great way to experience the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.
Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Week is an annual event that showcases the culinary talents of the city's top restaurants.
Held in May or June, participating restaurants offer special fixed-price menus that showcase their signature dishes and highlight the creativity and innovation of local chefs. The menus typically include three courses, with a choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert.
The fixed-price menus allow to sample a variety of dishes at a reasonable cost, enjoy delicious food and discover the city's thriving culinary scene.
Puerto Vallarta loves to celebrate diversity! This annual LGBTQ+ festival is held in May each year and features a range of events, including parades, parties, concerts, and cultural gatherings, all celebrating the diversity and inclusivity of the community.
The city boasts a vibrant gay district in Zona Romántica, which comes alive during the annual pride week celebration. Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy a variety of exciting parties hosted at the area’s numerous bars, including a week-long celebration at the renowned Mantamar beach club on the iconic Los Muertos gay beach.
Mexican Independence Day is a national holiday that celebrates the country's independence from Spain.
It is held on September 16th each year, and the holiday is marked by parades, fireworks, and other cultural events. The day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotism throughout the country. In Puerto Vallarta, you can experience this patriotic spirit and the unique cultural traditions of the celebration.
Overall, Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica is a celebration of the vibrant and diverse culinary scene in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, and features some of the most renowned chefs from Mexico and around the world.
The festival provides a unique opportunity to sample some of the best food in the region, learn from top culinary experts, and connect with other food lovers and industry professionals. It's a must-attend event for anyone who appreciates great food and drink and wants to experience this beautiful region's unique flavors and cultures.
Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a traditional Mexican holiday that celebrates the lives of loved ones who have passed away. Held on November 1st and 2nd each year, the holiday is marked by colorful altars, parades, and other cultural events.
Puerto Vallarta is home to some of the most beautiful Day of the Dead celebrations in the region, and the holiday is a great way to experience Mexican culture and tradition.
The Historic Center Art Walk is a weekly event that takes place from November to April.
Held every Wednesday evening, the art walk is a great way to experience the local art scene and explore the historic center of Puerto Vallarta. Visitors can meet local artists and gallery owners, view a wide range of artwork, and enjoy live music, drinks and snacks.
If Riviera Nayarit’s Half Marathon isn’t enough, Puerto Vallarta has its annual Marathon race.
The marathon can take place between November and April, and runners can participate in the full marathon, half marathon, or 5K race. The course takes runners along the scenic malecon, through the historic downtown area, and along the beautiful beaches of Puerto Vallarta.
Puerto Vallarta is an incredible gastronomic destination, so it features several food events throughout the year. In November, the International Gourmet Festival celebrates the culinary excellence of the region.
The festival brings together some of the most talented chefs from Mexico and around the world, who showcase their skills and creativity through a series of cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and food pairings. The event is a celebration of the diverse flavors and ingredients of Mexican cuisine, as well as the innovative techniques and ideas that have been developed by chefs from around the globe.
Not in Puerto Vallarta, but just an hour away, Punta Mita is a world-class golf destination and of course, it has an event that celebrates this sport and combines it with the fabulous gastronomy of the region.
Held in December, this event features the best of Mexican cuisine, fine wines, exceptional local drinks, special events and world-class golf in the most beautiful resort setting.
The humpback whale migration is an annual natural phenomenon that takes place from December to March. Visitors can take whale watching tours to see these magnificent creatures up close as they migrate to warmer waters to breed and give birth.
It's a breathtaking experience and one not to be missed!
Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving event scene. Whether you're a foodie, art lover, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and unique experience, there's something for everyone in Puerto Vallarta. So plan your time in town around one of these events, and you'll surely have an unforgettable time.
If you’ve decided that you want to put down roots in this fascinating place, at Tao Mexico, we can help you find the home of your dreams.
We’re specialists in real estate and have exclusive luxury properties in Puerto Vallarta.
Contact us! We would love to meet you, answer any questions, and show you our available options in this stunning area of the Mexican Pacific.
May 22, 2023
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