Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Local businesses are throwing their growing support behind the proposed Memorial Day weekend "Orgullo – Vallarta - Pride 2013" LGBT pride parade march and open air music event - ideas being submitted to the city for review.

The pride weekend will offer a diversity of activities to draw both national and international tourism to Puerto Vallarta during what is generally considered one of the best months to visit the pacific coast city.

Organizers are confident the city will back the event as they continue to canvass local businesses to support and participate in the celebratory two day community event. Proposals to the city may include a beach volley ball competition, a unified theme and offers at participating LGBT bars and clubs in the Romantic Zone, LGBT-friendly tour packages, and fundraising for local not-for-profit organizations.

"The event is planned as an invitation to all Vallarta residents and visitors to celebrate the rich cultural and social diversity that makes Vallarta unique," explained local business leader and long time PV resident Bill Hevener during an interview.

When questioned on the appropriateness of the event during the Memorial Day weekend and the city`s anniversary festivals, Christian Gutierrez, owner of Gay Vallarta Bar Hopping Tour, referenced the contribution of the LGBT community in all areas of Vallarta civic life including local and national politics, arts and culture, education, and social rights.

"Celebrating Orgullo – Vallarta - Pride 2013 during the Memorial Day weekend and Vallarta’s Fiestas de Mayo will highlight the continuing contribution of the LGBT community - both local and visitor - to the economic success and social vibrancy of the city," he said.

"The event will not only increase tourism and celebrate diversity, but promote tolerance and unity to the many communities that make up Bahia de Banderas," added Hevener.

The impact of a successful pride event on the local economy is generating much support from local business. According the organizers, the economic windfall could reach into the millions of dollars if the event gathers government and corporate sponsorship. The event has been timed to coincide with the hugely popular foodie event, "Restaurant Week."

Organizers point to the success of pride events in Palm Springs where data reveals the direct economic benefit from the city may have exceeded a record $14.1 million in 2011. The event drew record LGBT visitors to the city, with 72 percent of attendees reporting to have travelled from outside the city to the event.

For more information or to support the event contact bill(at)raulwear.com