Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – Each September, Mexico proudly commemorates its independence with Las Fiestas Patrias. In Puerto Vallarta, the four-day celebration from September 13–16 brings together tradition, history, and community spirit in a series of colorful and patriotic events.
The celebrations begin on September 13 at 8:00 am in the Plaza de El Pitillal, where a ceremony will honor the anniversary of the Battle of Chapultepec. This event pays tribute to the Niños Héroes (Boy Heroes), young cadets who courageously defended Mexico City during the Mexican-American War.
The next day, September 14, is all about Mexican horsemanship! It’s el Día Nacional de la Charrería, and a celebratory parade will wind through downtown Puerto Vallarta starting at 10:00 am on Ignacio L. Vallarta street. The parade will make its way down the Malecón all the way to the Ley grocery store. This event will showcase the skill and tradition of Mexico’s national sport.
The excitement builds on September 15, the eve of Independence Day. The day kicks off with a civic ceremony at 8:00 am in the Plaza de Armas, outside the Municipal Presidency, to mark the 215th anniversary of the Grito de Independencia de México.
The main event, however, will take place later that night, around 11:00 pm, when Mayor Luis Munguía steps onto the presidential balcony. He’ll lead the famous Grito de Dolores, a powerful and unifying call to independence that echoes with the spirit of the nation’s heroes.
This powerful call to independence is typically followed by a mesmerizing fireworks display over Banderas Bay, accompanied by the traditional lighting of castillos (castle-like structures of fireworks) and toritos (small, bull-shaped firework frames) on the Malecón. Throughout the evening, the party will be in full swing near the lighthouse, with live music from Mariachi International de México, Los Rabioso del Norte, who will get the crowd rocking with their tunes, and Sonota Dinamita, known for their cumbia beats.
September 16 is a national holiday, much like the Fourth of July in the United States. Many banks, government offices, and businesses will close so residents can join in the festivities. The day will start with another civic ceremony at 8:00 a.m. in the Plaza de Armas, followed by the traditional civic-military parade at 9:00 am. In a stunning display of national pride and unity, the procession features Army, Navy, and National Guard contingents, along with schools, firefighters, Civil Protection teams, and Citizen Security groups, all marching proudly through downtown, along the same route as the Charro parade.
For those who want to continue the celebration, Puerto Vallarta’s restaurants and bars are ready to welcome you with a variety of festive experiences all month long. It’s a fantastic time to enjoy the city’s rich culture and toast to 215 years of Mexican independence.
¡Viva México!
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.
