Puerto Vallarta is preparing to host an extraordinary Day of the Dead festival this year, featuring the exciting new theme “Remember Me.” From October 31 to November 3, the city will be filled with cultural and artistic displays, honoring tradition while inviting residents, visitors, and even their pets to join in the celebrations.
This year’s festival is a fully collaborative effort by various departments of the city council, ensuring a diverse program of events that will reach all corners of the municipality, with free access for everyone to enjoy. Festivities will take place across downtown, cemeteries, and neighborhoods, offering an immersive experience that’s sure to leave lasting memories.
One of the festival’s highlights will be the installation of an ofrenda (altar) in honor of the founder of Puerto Vallarta, Don Guadalupe Sánchez, in the main square. The iconic 28-meter-high Catrina will return, this time accompanied by her pet, thanks to the support of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Trust.
Artistic and cultural events will take place at popular locations such as the Malecón, Lázaro Cárdenas Park, Los Muertos Pier, and the Cuale River Island. The must-see ‘Day of the Dead Mega Parade’ is scheduled for November 2, bringing the streets to life with colorful displays of celebration and remembrance. The parade is scheduled to start at 5:00 pm in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood, continue through the streets of El Centro, and end at Los Arcos del Malecón.
Additionally, the festival will feature contests for the best altars, tombs, and catrinas in all four municipal delegations, as well as film screenings and artistic presentations, including performances by the Puerto Vallarta School Orchestra and the Xiutla Municipal Folkloric Dance Group. For an interactive twist, cemeteries such as 5 de Diciembre, Ramblases, Ixtapa, and Las Palmas will offer photo booths, guided tours, storytelling, and workshops in specially designed Interactive Pantheons.
During the festival’s press conference, Alejandra Cornejo, Municipal Tourism Director, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are excited to offer a unique and inclusive Day of the Dead celebration. By incorporating pet-friendly elements, we hope to attract even more visitors and create lasting memories.”
Luis Villaseñor Nolasco, director of the Tourism Promotion Trust, echoed this sentiment, adding, “We believe that this year’s festival will be a great success. By focusing on the pet-friendly aspect, we aim to appeal to a wider audience and generate positive feedback on social media.”
With its blend of heartfelt traditions and modern-day appeal, Puerto Vallarta’s Day of the Dead celebration is poised to offer a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone.
