Riviera Nayarit, Mexico - The Riviera Nayarit is kicking off the New Year with all kinds of fun events from cultural, and artistic to sports, environmental, religious and much more! The Groups and Events Department of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau is hard at work to ensure every one of them is a great success - here's a look at what's coming up in January and February. Mark your calendars now!

Patron Saint Festivities for Our Lady of Peace (January 16-24)
Our Lady of Peace is the patron saint of fishermen, and this religious festivity in her honor takes place in the town of Bucerías. It includes a fun verbena and plenty of cultural activities, among them, a maritime pilgrimage from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle all the way to Bucerías with dozens of boats escorting the Peace Torch.

International Migratory Bird Festival (January 26 to February 2)
One of the most important bird watching and conservation festivals on the continent is held in San Blas, one of the best-known areas for endemic, resident and migratory birds. There are over 500 species, different observation routes and a cultural festival at the port.

Sayulita Festival (January 27-31)
Laid back and luscious, the Pueblo Mágico of Sayulita offers movies, music, drinks and surfing. The last weekend of the month is a full-on party weekend and this year the concert is going to be stellar: think Kinky, Le Butcherettes, Golden Ganga, La Hora de La Hora, Insoul and Mexican Juligans.

Vallarta Cup Race Series (January 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30)
Saturdays in January belong to this series of nautical competitions that ply the waters of Nuevo Vallarta. Every weekend there's a friendly race with a corresponding theme party at night to welcome in the New Year by sailing with friends.

Art Festival (Saturdays)
Every Saturday in high season head down to the Malecón (Boardwalk) at the Marina Nuevo Vallarta where you'll enjoy a festival chock full of painting, sculpture and music among many other artistic impressions in a fun, family atmosphere. The meeting point is at the Estudio Café.

And these are just SOME of the exciting events scheduled to take place this winter in the Riviera Nayarit! Stay tuned for more information as additional happenings are scheduled.