Puerto Vallarta will come alive with dance, music, and tradition as more than a thousand artists from Mexico and across the globe take part in the 19th Vallarta Azteca International Folklore Festival, running from May 2 to 9.
This week-long celebration will showcase performers from countries including Poland, South Korea, Ghana, Colombia, Chile, Bolivia, and El Salvador, as well as from various Mexican states. Their colorful costumes and traditional dances will light up stages throughout the city, offering locals and visitors a rich cultural experience.
All events are free and open to the public. The official opening takes place Friday, May 2, with a full day of performances and cultural activities from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm in downtown Vallarta.
The festival’s opening offers a rich lineup of events, including the Baila Conmigo dance showcase at 10:00 am, an exhibit of dolls in traditional dress, and a colorful folklore parade starting at 6:00 pm from the Buenaventura Hotel, and making its way down the Malecón to Los Arcos Amphitheater. At 7:00 pm, El Faro del Malecón (the lighthouse) will host the festival’s official inauguration and the presentation of all participating groups.
Throughout the week, audiences can enjoy spectacular shows at Teatro Vallarta, the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the Technological University of Bahía de Banderas. The festival will conclude at 7:00 pm on May 9th with a closing ceremony at the La Lija Cultural Center.
Teatro Vallarta will host special performances on May 4th and 5th. Although admission is free, tickets are required and will be available starting May 1st at the Municipal Tourism Office and at DIF headquarters.
Beyond Puerto Vallarta, the festival will also bring cultural performances to the main plazas of neighboring municipalities such as Tomatlán, Mascota, Atenguillo, and San Sebastián del Oeste.
According to Guadalupe Gómez Basulto, director of the Vallarta Institute of Culture, the festival helps promote access to the arts while strengthening Puerto Vallarta’s reputation as a center for cultural tourism. Miguel Arturo Meza Munguía, Deputy Director of Economic Promotion and Tourism, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of sharing traditions through free and inclusive events.
More information, photos from past Vallarta Folkloric Festivals, and a complete schedule of this year’s performances can be found on the Festival Vallarta Azteca del Folclor Internacional Facebook page.
For 25 years, Banderas News has been the pulse of Puerto Vallarta, bringing you stories that matter most to residents and visitors alike. From breaking news to exciting events and cultural features, we’ve been dedicated to keeping you informed and connected – free of charge. Your contribution helps us maintain this commitment and continue serving our community.