Discover Puerto Vallarta’s Charro Championship and Mexico’s Living Tradition

If you're planning an exciting getaway to Mexico at the end of January, there's one event you can't miss: the 2026 Vallarta International Charro Championship.

This festival, which combines sport, culture, and heritage, will take place from January 29 to February 1, 2026, at the iconic Lienzo Charro Miguel “Prieto” Ibarría arena in Puerto Vallarta.

Charrería, considered Mexico's national sport, is a spectacular event full of history, expert horse riding, and Mexican pride.  If you're into cultural or sports tourism, this championship is the ideal opportunity to explore Puerto Vallarta from a fresh viewpoint: one that delves into its rich traditions.

A Highly Competitive Sporting Event

The 2026 Vallarta International Charro Championship is poised to be a highly anticipated event, with one of its major highlights being the participation of competitors at an exceptional level.  The event will feature 30 charro teams, with participants hailing from the United States, contributing to the event's enhanced international flavor. 

The following teams have confirmed their participation in the 2026 Vallarta International Charro Championship:

• El Soyate, the current national champion.
• RG2, the former national champion.
• Charros de Jalisco, distinguished by their extensive history and numerous championships, are a force to be reckoned with.
• Villa Oro de Querétaro and Los Tres Regalos are both known for their renowned charro tradition.

In addition, there will be 24 horsewomen teams (“escaramuzas”,) representing one of the most elegant expressions of charrería.  Rhythm, color, and precision are brought to the 2026 Vallarta International Charro Championship by the participation of women, with renowned teams from different regions of Mexico.

Highlights of the Program

The championship schedule is designed to keep the public engaged and entertained for four consecutive days:

• On Thursday, January 29, the official opening will take place in the afternoon, and the first charreadas will be held at the Lienzo Charro Miguel "Prieto" Ibarría arena.
• Friday, January 30, and Saturday, January 31: Competitions will take place at different times during the day (11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.).  There will also be exhibitions of traditional skills and performances by the participating horsewomen teams.
• Sunday, February 1: Anticipation mounts for the two final charreadas, scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., respectively, where eight teams will vie for the championship's coveted top spot.

The 2026 Vallarta International Charro Championship is more than just a competition.  It offers a family-friendly atmosphere with live music, traditional Mexican cuisine, cultural exhibitions, a shopping area, and a children's area.  This event is perfect for those who want to enjoy the national sport par excellence while also having fun activities for all ages.

The Traditional Charro Parade

The Charro Parade by the Malecon is without a doubt one of the most highly anticipated events for visitors and locals alike.  This tradition goes beyond the charreadas of the arena, taking over Puerto Vallarta's famous boardwalk. 

This equestrian procession features charros and horsewomen, accompanied by live Regional Mexicano music and a festive atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of the national sport in the midst of the Pacific breeze.

This year, the Charro Parade by the Malecon is scheduled for Friday, January 30, with a start time of 11:30 p.m.  The event will begin at the Zoo bar, which is located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta's Malecón boardwalk.

The Charro Parade is an opportunity for many travelers, whether they are there for sports or cultural tourism, to interact directly with the participants and experience the heart of the charro tradition up close.

What is Charrería, Mexico's National Sport?

The national identity of Mexico is closely tied to Charrería, an equestrian discipline that originated on Mexican haciendas.  The Charrería is a celebration of tradition, with its rich heritage embodied by the skills of the rider and horse. 

This cultural practice is characterized by vibrant costumes, lively music, and a series of suertes, which are events performed by the charros and horsewomen (“escaramuzas”.) 

The 2026 Vallarta International Charro Championship is the setting for a vibrant celebration of this sport, drawing in competitors and spectators from across the globe.

Tourism and Tradition—A Match Made in Heaven

The 2026 Vallarta International Charro Championship is an opportunity to delve into Mexican culture, witness the passion surrounding charrería, and experience one of Mexico's most iconic destinations on the Pacific coast. 

Puerto Vallarta is the perfect setting to experience the charro tradition and the beauty of cultural tourism.  The city's natural beauty, rich culinary offerings, and festive atmosphere make it a standout destination.

If you are planning to visit Puerto Vallarta during the first long weekend of 2026, consider arriving early to explore the best beaches, stroll along the Malecon boardwalk, and discover the charm of Jalisco’s premier beach destination before or after the championship. 

The Charro experience, the “escaramuza” teams, and the equestrian events, in addition to the welcoming warmth of Puerto Vallarta's hospitality, will ensure that this visit is etched in one's memory as an unforgettable occasion.