Puerto Vallarta Celebrated Dia de los Muertos with the Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World

The Day of the Dead festivities in Puerto Vallarta once again commemorated those who have passed away, as spirits soared and gazes were cast towards the ocean. The city came alive with altars, marigolds, music, and pride during the second annual Recuérdame Festival and the Festival de Almas (Festival of Souls), a tradition that brings people from all over the world together.

On Sunday, November 2, the Day of the Dead in Mexico, as dusk fell over the Pacific, a procession of thousands of catrinas made their way from the cemetery in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood to the Los Muertos Beach Pier. This parade was a poignant tribute to memory and life.

The Malecón boardwalk was transformed into a stage of lights, color, and tradition, complete with vibrant displays and cultural elements that captivated onlookers. The unveiling of the Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World was met with applause from visitors and residents. The event, which took place in an emotional ceremony led by Jalisco's Secretary of Tourism, Michelle Fridman, also featured the presence of “Tito Vallar”, the xoloitzcuintle that accompanied the monumental catrina skull.

A Giant Catrina Facing the Sea

Under a sunset sky on the Malecón, right on the esplanade of the Lighthouse, the ribbon was cut to mark the inauguration of the Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World. Attired in an elegant turquoise blue suit adorned with marine motifs and a black and white hat embellished with colorful flowers, the colossal figure stood as an outdoor work of art that evoked a sense of awe and admiration.

For the fifth year in a row, the Day of the Dead festivities in Puerto Vallarta featured a monumental catrina as their centerpiece. This structure is over 27 meters tall and has held the title of the "Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World" for two consecutive years, as awarded by Guinness World Records.

The Grand Lady of Puerto Vallarta's Malecón boardwalk is the icon of an immersive experience in a destination that celebrates death as part of life itself.

The Largest Day of the Dead Parade

On Sunday, November 2, at sunset, the streets of Downtown Puerto Vallarta transformed into a stage for a vibrant procession. The Day of the Dead Parade kicked off at around 5:00 pm, starting from the cemetery in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood and wrapping up at the Los Muertos Beach Pier.

The Day of the Dead Parade also set a historic record, with more than 35,000 people walking alongside the procession of catrinas, floats, live music, charros on horseback, and dancers. The event saw a remarkable turnout, underscoring the enduring popularity of the tradition and the city's growing appeal as a tourist destination.

Hundreds more were seen gathering early in the afternoon on the sidewalks of El Centro, the Malecon boardwalk, and the Romantic Zone to find a good spot, watch the colorful parade, and be part of what has become a true popular celebration for the whole family.

The People's Favorite Day of the Dead Events

The Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta was marked by a diverse array of cultural, artistic, and entertainment activities, catering to a wide range of interests among visitors and residents. The following were among the most popular:

More than 30 altars for the dead and 36 large-format catrinas were installed in the exterior corridors of the City Hall and along the Malecon boardwalk, offering a gallery of color and living traditions.

More than 80 giant skulls lined the Malecon boardwalk, creating a visual environment that invited visitors to stroll and take photographs.

The Los Muertos Beach Pier was transformed into a themed promenade with special decorations and lighting for the Festival of Souls, a celebration promoted by the Government of the State of Jalisco.

A variety of activities, including dance, music, theater, and Day of the Dead celebrations, were hosted at other venues such as the Los Arcos del Malecon amphitheater, the Plaza de Armas main square, and the Lázaro Cárdenas Park.

The 5 de Diciembre cemetery hosted educational and immersive activities, including the guided tours "Historias y leyendas de tumba" (Tomb Stories and Legends) and the "Caminata Perruna Huellitas del Más Allá" (Dog Walk Paw Prints from Beyond.) These activities took place on Monday, November 3, and concluded the second annual Recuérdame Festival.

A Tradition to Remember, Honor, and Celebrate

The Day of the Dead festivities in Puerto Vallarta showcased how tradition can be reimagined without sacrificing its core spirit. One of Mexico's most beautiful traditions is interpreted and expressed in new ways through the monumental catrina and the parade. However, the essence remains the same: to remember, celebrate, and honor our loved ones who have passed away.

Therefore, the Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta is a special experience that combines the most beautiful beaches on the Pacific Ocean, a festive atmosphere with many colors throughout the city, and the best of Mexican traditions.

The streets were filled with marigolds, papel picado, and the aroma of freshly baked pan de muerto. The sun went down. The monumental Catrina was lit up. And thousands of visitors joined local residents in paying tribute to those who have passed away.

Puerto Vallarta reafirma su posición como uno de los destinos de sol y playa más atractivos de México para el turismo cultural y de experiencia.

Puerto Vallarta is a leading destination for cultural and experiential tourism in Mexico. The Day of the Dead Festival in Puerto Vallarta is not to be missed! Plan your visit for 2026 to experience this celebration that honors life, memory, and Mexican identity.