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June 01, 2023
Over 50,000 people gathered at the El Malecon and Downtown streets nearby to celebrate Puerto Vallarta's 105th anniversary on May 31st. This special event was a celebration of the city's history, its vibrant culture and the warmth of its ever-welcoming people. During this milestone celebration, visitors and locals alike did come together to experience the true spirit of Puerto Vallarta.
Founded on December 12, 1851 by Senor Guadalupe Sánchez Torres, Puerto Vallarta has grown from a small fishing village, formerly known as Las Peñas de Santa María de Guadalupe, to a world-renowned tourist destination.
On May 31, 1918, the small town of Las Peñas was granted municipal status by the Jalisco State Legislature. After changing its political category, Las Peñas was given the name of Municipality of Puerto Vallarta. This was in honor of the illustrious Governor of the State of Jalisco, Ignacio Luis Vallarta Ogazón.
On May 31, 1968, the City of Puerto Vallarta celebrated its 50th anniversary as a municipality, having been elevated to City status by the Jalisco State Legislature.
This double anniversary provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on Puerto Vallarta's own journey and recognize how it's evolved into a vibrant and inclusive community.
It is also a great opportunity to take a step back in time and learn about the local history through photo exhibits and other cultural events that showcase the city's heritage.
Puerto Vallarta comes alive with a variety of exciting events and activities during the anniversary celebrations in May. The 2023 Fiestas de Mayo Puerto Vallarta Festival is a highly anticipated three-week long popular festival that features live performances at the Explanada Vallarta Arena.
Some of the most popular artists in new regional Mexican music such as Pancho Barraza, Junior H, Julión Álvarez, and Kenia Os were featured in the 2023 Fiestas de Mayo Festival and live music lineup. Attendees also enjoyed numerous attractions, rides, sporting events and various Mexican food booths featuring Jalisco and other regional specialties.
On May 31st, the local government celebrated Puerto Vallarta's anniversary with a large birthday cake and the singing of "Las Mañanitas", as is customary in Mexico.
A free fiesta and cultural program featuring the Xiutla Folkloric Ballet and live mariachi music followed at the Los Arcos Amphitheater and the El Faro Esplanade.
A dazzling fireworks display along the El Malecon boardwalk lit up the night sky over Puerto Vallarta at midnight, casting colorful reflections on the surface of the ocean.
The grand finale of the 105th anniversary celebration was a massive live show by renowned regional Mexican new music singer, accordionist and songwriter Alfredo Olivas.
According to local officials, more than 50,000 Vallartenses and visitors took to the El Malecon boardwalk for what is believed to be the largest live performance ever held at that location in the history of Puerto Vallarta.
Puerto Vallarta's past, present and future were celebrated during the city's 105th anniversary. It was a special occasion to honor the people, culture and natural beauty that make this destination so unique and popular. Congratulations on your 105th anniversary, dear Puerto Vallarta!
Watch the anniversary video below to learn about some of the 105 reasons to celebrate Puerto Vallarta:
If you attended the festivities and were part of this unforgettable celebration that captured the essence of Puerto Vallarta's rich heritage, don't forget to tag us on social media using the hashtag #PuertoVallarta.
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