Puerto Vallarta has become a very important art center, with more galleries than any other Mexican coastal destination, representing Mexico's finest artists as well as artists from other countries who have chosen Puerto Vallarta as their home.

Every October kicks off the official opening of the Puerto Vallarta Art Walk, and this year promises to be the best ever, with art galleries and events spotlighting local and internationally known artists from Mexico and around the world.

The Puerto Vallarta Art Walk is held at nine downtown art galleries every Wednesday night from 6 to 10 pm from the end of October 2011, through the end of May 2012. All galleries are open to the public each Wednesday evening and serve refreshments and wine. The participating galleries present paintings in all media, sculptures, fine ceramics, and unique jewelry.

Entrance is free and there is no guide, so you can visit the galleries of your choice and stay as long as you like. Featured artists are often present and exhibitions are changed frequently. If you miss the opening exhibit you can visit the galleries during their regular hours.

This is a great way to know more about the art and culture of Vallarta and Mexico and to meet old and new friends. Parking is available in secure commercial parking lots at Plaza Juarez and Hidalgo Park.

A free brochure with information about the Art Walk and a map of the participating galleries is available at most all of the major hotels, businesses and galleries in town, or you can click HERE to download and print the 2011-2012 ArtWalk map in PDF format. Visit VallartaArtWalk.com for more information.