Discover Puerto Vallarta, a vibrant coastal paradise where traditions and festivities create an unforgettable experience for visitors. Located between the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean and lush tropical landscapes, this Mexican gem is renowned for its friendly locals, exquisite cuisine, and dynamic cultural events. If you’re planning to visit during the fall season, the Day of the Dead Puerto Vallarta celebrations will provide a unique and culturally rich vacation that you won’t want to miss. This enchanting time of year transforms the city into a vibrant tapestry of colors, sounds, and smells, inviting everyone to partake in both time-honored traditions and contemporary festivities.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the invigorating blend of history and modern enjoyment promises to captivate your senses and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
About Dia de los Muertos
Dia de Muertos – Day of the Dead, is a traditional Mexican holiday celebrated on November 2nd, with origins stretching back over 3,000 years to ancient Aztec traditions. Though it may seem spooky to outsiders, it is a lively and social celebration filled with festivities, sweets, and family time, blending tradition, family, and religion.
Ancient Mesoamerican civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans believed in an afterlife and celebrated the dead as a natural part of life. Initially observed in early summer, the festivities shifted to November 2nd after Spanish colonization, aligning with All Souls’ Day and causing occasional confusion with Halloween. During Dia de Muertos, altars featuring the deceased’s favorite foods, drinks, personal items, a glass of water, candles, and marigold flowers are set up in homes, businesses, and public spaces. These altars sometimes appear in cemeteries, fostering a communal remembrance atmosphere.
Despite changes over the years, Dia de Muertos remains a respectful tribute to departed family members, emphasizing the celebration of life and our shared humanity. Visiting Mexico during this time offers a joyful, culturally rich experience that unites people in honoring their past.
Puerto Vallarta Festival de Muertos
Starting on November 1st and culminating on the 2nd, visitors can witness the Malecon transformed into a massive display of artistry, costumes, Day of the Dead altars, and much more. This period sees a captivating blend of Halloween and Puerto Vallarta Day of the Dead celebrations. Explore the mesmerizing festival, experience profound traditions, and indulge in thrilling Halloween events beginning before October 31st and extending the week after. The juxtaposition of these two celebrations creates an unforgettable experience. Markets in Puerto Vallarta are filled with the distinctive aromas of fresh cempasúchil flowers, copal, palo santo, and incense. Each market hosts colorful displays of altars dedicated to the dead, ensuring that the essence of the holiday is captured in every corner.
Things to Do at Festival de Muertos
See the Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World
One of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta during this time is to see the monumental Catrina, which holds the Guinness World Record for the “Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World” with a height of 92 feet. This giant structure will be on display on the esplanade of the Faro del Malecon Lighthouse throughout November. Created by a large team led by Professor Juan Ernesto Navarro Salcedo, this Catrina took more than three months to build, using approximately four tons of material and over 700 meters of fabric.
Walk the Boardwalk to See Catrinas
A stroll along the boardwalk reveals beautifully crafted Catrinas. The city’s main hotels, restaurants, and shops participate in the creation of these figures. Some are decorated with motifs alluding to the sea and the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta, known as the “Friendliest City in the World.” Others are dedicated to popular culture characters, making this one of the must-do things to do and see in Puerto Vallarta. Plus, with the warm, pleasant Puerto Vallarta weather year-round, it’s the perfect time to explore this vibrant cultural celebration outdoors!
Visit Clubs along the Malecon
Feel the festive spirit by visiting various clubs along the Malecon. You’ll find lively events that culminate in a blend of Halloween and Day of the Dead celebrations. The vibrant nightlife adds another dimension to Puerto Vallarta events during this period. Whether you are dancing the night away, savoring expertly crafted cocktails, or simply soaking in the lively, celebratory atmosphere, visiting the clubs along the Malecon during the Halloween and Day of the Dead festivities promises to be an exhilarating highlight of your trip.
Costume Contests in Old Town
Celebrate Halloween a bit early at La Catrina Cantina on Sunday, October 29, at 10:30 p.m. with their Halloween Costume Contest. Show off your costume and join the contest during the open mic session to win exciting prizes. Participate in the Halloween costume block party sponsored by The Swedes, Anonimo, One Six One, and Blondies, and visit each establishment on October 31, between 7 and 11 p.m.
Plan Your Next Visit!
Are you ready to plan your next Mexico adventure? Browse our entire selection of rentals today and find the perfect match for your stay!
Playa del Carmen Vacation Rentals at Samson Waters
When planning your trip to Puerto Vallarta, finding the ideal Puerto Vallarta rentals is essential for a comfortable and enriching experience. Samson Waters offers a wide range of Puerto Vallarta vacation rentals, including beachfront condos, luxury vacation rentals with private pools, and family-friendly rentals. These rentals come equipped with extensive amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, high-speed internet, cable TV, air conditioning, housekeeping services, and options for pools or hot tubs. Our Mexico vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta offer comfort and proximity to the festivities, making them a perfect choice for visitors. Don’t miss out on the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta during this time, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage that the Day of the Dead Puerto Vallarta celebrations offer.
