Dia de Los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta

A Unique Mexican Fiesta by the Beach

Dia de los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant celebration of life, culture and tradition in honor of the dead.

While this festival is celebrated all over Mexico, Puerto Vallarta offers a unique experience that blends artistry, fiesta and the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific coastline.

Day of the Dead celebrations in Puerto Vallarta reach new heights -literally- with the "Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World" standing as a proud symbol of the city's cultural heritage.

Here’s what makes Puerto Vallarta one of the top destinations for experiencing an authentic Dia de los Muertos celebration.

THE TALLEST CALAVERA CATRINA IN THE WORLD

A Puerto Vallarta Icon for Dia de los Muertos

Puerto Vallarta is home to the Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World, a monumental work of art standing at over 90 feet-tall. It is carefully crafted by local artisans and is the centerpiece for the city's Day of the Dead celebrations.

Since 2022, the Great Lady of the Malecon boardwalk holds the Guinness World Records as the tallest in the world. The Calavera Catrina dons a fresh gala costume for each festival, and in 2024, she was accompanied by her faithful doggie from Mictlán – the Aztec’s “land of the dead.”

Visitors from across the globe come to Puerto Vallarta to see this monumental sculpture, and from November 1st, you can catch it on the esplanade of the Malecon Lighthouse.

DAY OF THE DEAD IN PUERTO VALLARTA: WHAT TO DO

Start Planning the Perfect Travel Plan

Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta is the perfect time for visitors to take part in this celebration. You can visit the altars at different locations throughout the city and enjoy a cultural program with free events and other activities for the whole family.

Some of the best things to do during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Puerto Vallarta are:

Pay a visit to the calaveritas on the Malecon.

The boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta is decorated with over 40 different giant calaverita skulls. Hotels, restaurants, and businesses contribute to the creation of each skull; some decorate them with motifs alluding to nature, and others dedicate them to characters from popular culture.

Tour the altars of the dead.

Discover beautifully crafted altars and ofrendas that people have created in honor of loved ones who have passed away. These colorful altars can be found in the Main Square in Downtown, Cuale Island, Lázaro Cárdenas Park, and some major hotels.

A parade down the Malecon.

Put on your Calavera Catrina costume and join the Day of the Dead festivities in Puerto Vallarta. The celebration includes a parade with live music and vibrant floats that traverse the city's streets, including the Downtown area, the Malecon boardwalk, and the Romantic Zone.

Venture into the heart of the jungle.

The number one nighttime experience in Puerto Vallarta is ALMA by Rhythms of the Night, which features an incredible show in a hidden paradise in the jungle. Expect culinary delights, live music, acrobats, dancers, and stunning backdrops referencing the Day of the Dead, all with the celebrated caliber of Vallarta Adventures.

VISIT PUERTO VALLARTA ON DAY OF THE DEAD

An Simply Unforgettable Travel Experience

Puerto Vallarta is the perfect destination, if you're looking for an authentic Mexican Day of the Dead experience. The mix of old traditions and new ways to celebrate makes Puerto Vallarta a special place to visit.

If you're planning a Day of the Dead trip to Puerto Vallarta, you'll find a wide variety of activities, attractions, and culinary experiences that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the festivities.

Take a picture with the monumental Catrina.

Don't miss your chance to snap a picture of the Tallest Calavera Catrina in the World. An impressive tribute to the traditions of the Day of the Dead in Mexico, this colossal work of art stands proudly on the esplanade of the Malecón lighthouse.

Murals, public art, and more.

The Art District and the Art Walk, along with other independent art galleries, offer special exhibitions that explore themes of life and death. These exhibitions aim to provide context and history, helping visitors to understand and appreciate the Day of the Dead. El Centro, 5 de Diciembre, and the Romantic Zone are places where you can find public murals; take the opportunity to explore this route.

Enjoy live music.

A variety of live performances are on offer, including Mariachi bands, pre-Hispanic music and dances, and other artistic expressions that celebrate Mexican culture. These performances are held at iconic locations such as Los Arcos del Malecón amphitheater, Cuale Island, and the Romantic Zone.

Mexican cuisine.

Guilt-free indulgence awaits with our traditional Day of the Dead cuisine, including pan de muerto, tamales, atole, churros, pozole, and other seasonal delights.