Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - A feeling of festivity prevailed in Puerto Vallarta last weekend, as the city's First Annual Bugambilia Festival kicked off with a series of artistic, cultural and entertaining activities. An impressive array of floral sculptures and carpets decorating various locations throughout the city added to the festive atmosphere.

Friday got the nine-day event off to a spectacular start with hundreds of people of all ages gathering at Parque Hidalgo to get ready for the festival's opening parade. After having their faces painted, checking out the neon paintings created by the children of Pasito de Luz, and enjoying music spun by local DJs, they left the park sporting candles, lanterns, and glow in the dark body paint, to join in a Candlelight procession that made its way down the Malecón to Puerto Vallarta's South side.

Upon reaching Lazaro Cardenas Park, the center staging area for the entire Bugambilia Festival, participants found an array of booths selling food, decor, jewelry, sweets, fashion, and art at the Lazaro Cardenas Artisan Pavilion, and a party already in full swing.

Saturday was highlighted by the Catrina Parade and Contest and the Mexican Fiesta at Lazaro Cardenas Park, which featured a Dancing Catrina show, Mariachi performances, Tequila Tastings, and a special presentation by the Xiutla Grupo Folklórico.

Sunday's Pet Parade was a howling success as colorfully costumed pets paraded down the Malecón to Lazaro Cardenas Park, where the best-dressed pets were awarded. Click HERE to watch the video.

The party continued on Monday, with painting and recycling workshops taking place in the Plaza de Armas, Lázaro Cárdenas Park, and along Malecon II. In the evening, a children's show by Scene 3 and a dance performance by Shanti entertained young and old at the Bugambilia Festival's headquarters, Lazaro Cardenas Park.

If you missed these exciting events, never fear! There are many other activities scheduled through May 25th, including an Afternoon Tea at Hacienda San Angel, Walking Tours of El Centro, a Night Bike Ride, music and dance performances, parades, parties, and more! Click HERE to download daily event schedules in PDF format.

Join us in celebrating Puerto Vallarta's First Annual Bugambilia Festival! For more information, visit VallartaGardenClub.com or follow Bugambilia Festival 2013 on Facebook.