Christmas in Puerto Vallarta: Beach, Tradition, and Magic Under the Stars

The Mexican Pacific lights up with more than just sunsets when December arrives in Puerto Vallarta. During this time of year, the Friendliest City in the World transforms into a magical place where lights, music, delicious flavors, and festive spirit come together.

If a different Christmas experience is what you're looking for, with Mexican traditions mixing with the sea breeze, Puerto Vallarta awaits you with open arms and a calendar full of magic.

The Tallest Christmas Tree in Mexico

The lighting of the Christmas tree at the Los Muertos Pier is one of the most highly anticipated events of the holiday season in Puerto Vallarta. This tree is considered to be the tallest in Mexico.

This spectacular Christmas symbol rises in front of the sea, becoming a meeting point for both locals and visitors. The pier, which is already an icon of Puerto Vallarta due to its architecture and panoramic views, is decked out with multicolored lights and a festive atmosphere that officially kicks off the holiday season.

The lighting of the Christmas tree at the Muelle de Los Muertos marks the beginning of the "Mar de Regalos" Christmas Festival, which includes live music, artistic performances, and a family atmosphere that captures the essence of the holidays on the Mexican Pacific coast; an event not to be missed.

Music, Joy, and Celebration!

The Mar de Regalos Christmas Festival is another of the season's great attractions in Puerto Vallarta. This celebration runs from December 18 to January 1 and features free activities in the main public areas of El Centro and the Romantic Zone.

The Mar de Regalos Christmas Festival, organized by the municipal government of Puerto Vallarta, features a varied program of activities that includes:

• Live performances by a variety of local artists and musical genres as diverse as jazz, rock, boleros, traditional Mexican, pop, and Christmas carols!
• Folkloric dance, presented by the Xiutla Folkloric Group, is considered a tradition in Puerto Vallarta for more than 30 years.
• Christmas-themed movies will be shown in Hidalgo Park.

• A live DJ and evening performances by the ocean, set against the light display on the Los Muertos beach pier and the welcoming warmth of the Vallarta locals.
• The New Year's Festival is part of the program and will be held on Wednesday, December 31, starting at 8:00 p.m. at the Puerto Vallarta Malecón boardwalk. The festival will feature live performances by Mariachi CHG, Sonora Song Cumbia, and The Blaze.

On New Year's Day, the Palmares Beach, which is located in the southern part of Puerto Vallarta, will host the First Sunset Festival. Prepare to groove to DJ sets and live tunes from noon until the first sunset of 2026.

The inaugural edition of the Mar de Regalos Christmas Festival celebrates the sense of community that sets this tourist destination apart. Check out the complete program of events (in Spanish) at Gobierno Municipal de Puerto Vallarta on Facebook.

A Look at the Christmas Traditions in Puerto Vallarta

The Christmas season is made special by the way tradition and modernity come together, even beyond the official events.

The Historic Center's cobblestone streets are aglow with lights and adorned with nativity scenes, while restaurants offer special menus that blend Mexican flavors with international influences. The festive spirit is further elevated by the exuberant celebration of posadas.

At night, a walk along the Malecón is an experience in itself, with street performances, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere that invites enjoyment without rushing.

Those seeking a more spiritual touch to their December vacations can find it at the parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe and other churches, such as La Santa Cruz in Old Town Vallarta and Del Refugio in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood, which offer masses and celebrations.

New Year's Eve Beachfront Celebrations

Puerto Vallarta bids farewell to the year with one of the most vibrant celebrations on the Mexican Pacific coast. The bay is lit up by the fireworks display, which reflects off the waters of the Pacific. This show can be enjoyed from virtually anywhere along the Malecón or the beach.

Gala dinners and themed parties are offered by hotels, bars, and beach clubs, but many travelers prefer to welcome the New Year barefoot on the sand, accompanied by music and a glass of sparkling wine.

The festive spirit of the season, accentuated by the natural beauty of the sea and mountains that characterize Puerto Vallarta, is the perfect backdrop for the renowned hospitality and warmth of the locals.

Christmas magic in Puerto Vallarta has the taste of Mexican traditions and the scent of tropical coconut, whether under the glow of the Christmas tree in Los Muertos or in the hustle and bustle of the Mar de Regalos Festival.