October 22, 2024

Why You Should Visit Puerto Vallarta for Day of the Dead Celebrations

The Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) is a time-honored Mexican tradition. It celebrates the lives of loved ones who have passed away. While this festival is celebrated all over Mexico, Puerto Vallarta offers a unique experience that blends tradition, artistry, and the breathtaking beauty of the coastline.

Day of the Dead festivities in Puerto Vallarta are a must for anyone looking to experience Mexico's rich heritage, from vibrant parades and cultural activities to mouth-watering cuisine and the Guinness World Records Tallest Calavera Catrina.

Here's why you should plan to visit Puerto Vallarta for Day of the Dead, and what you can expect to experience during this unforgettable celebration.

Day of the dead parade in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta's Unique Day of the Dead Celebrations

The Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta is an intriguing blend of solemn remembrance and lively celebration. Thousands of marigolds, elaborately decorated altars (ofrendas), and lively parades with traditional Catrina costumes, floats, charros, and live mariachi music transform the city's streets into a kaleidoscope of color.

Catrinas in the day of the day celebration in Puerto Vallarta

The Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World, standing at over 90 feet tall, is one of the highlights of the Day of the Dead celebrations in Puerto Vallarta. This towering figure is more than just a visual spectacle. It is a symbol of Puerto Vallarta's deep-rooted connection to the traditions of the Day of the Dead.

The tallest catrina in Puerto Vallarta for day of the dead celebration"

Embracing the Mexican belief that death is not an end, but part of the continuous cycle of life, the monumental Catrina's presence symbolizes the city's reverence for both life and death.

Top Things to Do During Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta

The celebration of Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta offers a wide range of cultural activities, from live music and exhibitions to street performances and contests.

To help you plan your itinerary, here are some of the must-see events and activities this year:

Día de los Muertos Grand Parade. Experience the energy of Puerto Vallarta's Día de los Muertos Grand Parade on Saturday, November 2nd, starting at 5:00pm. Performers dressed as skeletons, vibrant Catrina costumes, colorful floats and charro horsemen parade through the streets of Colonia 5 de Diciembre neighborhood and downtown Puerto Vallarta. Mariachi bands, Batucada performers and dancers usually accompany the parade, creating an electrifying atmosphere that illuminates the evening.

Woman in mariachi band at Day of the Dead celebration playing violin

Traditional Altar Displays. Explore the intricately designed ofrendas that are set up throughout the city. These altars are decorated with photos, candles, flowers and mementos. They pay tribute to loved ones who have passed away. Each altar tells a unique story and offers a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heart of Mexico's traditions.
Cultural Workshops and Exhibitions. Participate in hands-on workshops to make your own papel picado (colorful paper cutouts). Decorate sugar skulls or paint your face like a Catrina. Exhibitions exploring the history and significance of the Day of the Dead, including themed art, sculpture, and photography, are held in local art galleries and cultural centers in downtown Puerto Vallarta and the Romantic Zone.
Guided Cemetery Tours. Join the locals of Puerto Vallarta on a visit to the beautifully decorated cemeteries, such as Panteón Municipal 5 de Diciembre, where families gather to honor their ancestors. These guided cemetery tours offer a unique insight into the customs and rituals that define Día de los Muertos. These include sharing stories, food, and music with the deceased.

Man and woman made up as Catrina and Catrin at the celebration of the Day of the Dead

What to Eat During Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta

Enjoying traditional Mexican cuisine is one of the best parts of visiting Puerto Vallarta during Day of the Dead. Local restaurants and street vendors offer a variety of dishes typically eaten during the holiday. Each dish is rich in flavor and cultural significance.

Pan de Muerto. A staple of the season, these sweet bread buns are known as "Bread of the Dead." Adorned with bone-shaped pieces and dusted with sugar, Pan de Muerto is often served with hot chocolate or a steaming cup of atole (a popular Mexican hot beverage made with milk or water, thickened with masa harina, and spiced with cinnamon and brown sugar.) Each bite of Pan de Muerto is a taste of tradition and a symbol of the circle of life and death.

Traditional Mexican bread of the dead

Tamales and Mole. Tamales, a popular Mexican comfort food, are made from corn masa dough and stuffed with savory or sweet fillings such as shredded chicken breast, pulled pork, mashed beans, and corn. They are often prepared for Day of the Dead altars. You'll also find rich, velvety mole—a complex sauce made with chocolate, spices, and chiles—served with roasted meats.
Local Flavors and Street Food. During the Day of the Dead, Puerto Vallarta's street food scene is in full swing. Try everything from fresh seafood tacos and ceviche tostadas, quesadillas and hand-crafted tortillas. The city's coastal location makes for a delicious selection of seafood specialties that you won't want to miss out on.

Puerto Vallarta Day of the Dead Highlights

There are plenty of activities to immerse yourself in the festivities if you're planning to spend the Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta. Here are some things you won't want to miss:

See the Monumental Calavera Catrina. The chance to see the Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World is not to be missed. This colossal statue stands proudly on the Malecon boardwalk and is an impressive tribute to the traditions of Día de los Muertos in Mexico. Learn more about the history and symbolism behind the statue on a guided tour.

The tallest Catrina in the world illuminated at night in Puerto Vallarta

Take a Stroll Along the Malecon. The Malecon boardwalk is the heart of Puerto Vallarta, and during the Day of the Dead festival it becomes a bustling center of activity. Explore the colorful altars, art installations and live performances that turn the boardwalk into a living museum while taking in the stunning ocean views—from downtown Puerto Vallarta to the Romantic Zone.
Visit Art Galleries and Cultural Centers. Visit local galleries featuring special exhibitions of works by Mexican and international artists to delve deeper into the meaning of Día de los Muertos. These exhibits provide context and history to help you understand and appreciate the Day of the Dead.

Giant Day of the Dead skull painted with the American flag on the Puerto Vallarta boardwalk

Enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s Nightlife. After the celebrations, enjoy the lively nightlife of Puerto Vallarta. Halloween and Day of the Dead themed parties with live music, DJ sets and live performances are held in many bars and clubs. Whether you are interested in dancing the night away or relaxing with a cocktail by the ocean, Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone.

Why Puerto Vallarta is the Best for Dia de los Muertos

Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places to experience the Day of the Dead in Mexico because of its unique blend of traditional Día de los Muertos customs and modern flair.

The town's commitment to honor its heritage, combined with its welcoming atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty, creates a celebratory atmosphere of respect and joy.

Catrín and Catrina in traditional charro and folklore costumes for the Day of the Dead celebration

Every corner of Puerto Vallarta comes alive with the spirit of Día de los Muertos, from the tallest Calavera Catrina in the world to the most impressive ofrendas and lively parades.

A visit during this time of year offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Mexico's most beloved traditions, making it a trip you'll remember for years to come.