Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – As Puerto Vallarta transitions from the summer rainy season to the fall and winter tourist season, the city is gearing up for an array of exciting events and experiences for visitors. From natural wonders like turtle hatchlings and migrating whales to cultural festivals and culinary delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And, with new nonstop flights from four U.S. cities coming this winter, travelers can now look forward to more convenient access. Alaska Airlines will introduce the only direct service between New York’s JFK Airport and Puerto Vallarta, starting January 8, 2025. These flights will run four times a week until April 20, 2025. Additionally, weekly flights from Sacramento will start on January 11 and end April 19, and from Kansas City and St. Louis on January 25 through April 5.
Here are just a few things travelers can look forward to during Puerto Vallarta’s upcoming fall and winter tourist season:
Turtle Season: A Conservation Marvel
From now through December, visitors can witness the heartwarming spectacle of sea turtle hatchlings making their way to the ocean. Turtle camps and hotels across the city host free public releases before sunset, offering a unique opportunity to participate in this essential conservation effort. Over 300,000 hatchlings are expected to take part in this yearly migration, with the best viewing between August and November.
Art Walk: Immerse in Local Culture
Running from October 30, 2024, to June 25, 2025, the Puerto Vallarta Art Walk invites visitors to explore the the downtown area’s dynamic art scene. This free event is held weekly, offering the chance to meet artists and view a diverse range of Mexican and international artwork.
Día de Los Muertos: A Celebration of Life
On November 1-2, Puerto Vallarta comes alive with colorful celebrations honoring Día de los Muertos, a time to honor and remember departed loved ones. The city, known for its cultural richness, holds the Guinness World Record for “The World’s Tallest Catrina,” standing over 75 feet tall. The festivities include visits to local cemeteries, Mariachi performances, and vendors selling traditional treats, making it a magical time to visit.
Festival Gourmet International: A Foodie’s Dream
From November 7-17, 2024, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit, and Tepic will host Mexico’s largest culinary event. Featuring 75 chefs and 32 restaurants, this ten-day festival celebrates the finest in local and international cuisine, with a grand opening at TierraLuna Gardens and a Picnic Under the Trees in Tepic to close.
Fiestas Guadalupanas: A Tradition of Faith
From December 1-12, Puerto Vallarta celebrates the Virgin of Guadalupe with the Fiestas Guadalupanas. Over these 12 days, hundreds of local businesses, unions, neighborhoods, and organizations participate in the pilgrimage to the city’s most iconic landmark, The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Peregrinación de los Favorecidos, attracting up to 20,000 devotees on Dec 12, is the largest procession, recognized as the “Intangible Heritage of the State of Jalisco.”
Whale Watching Season: Majestic Marine Life
From December through March, Puerto Vallarta offers the incredible opportunity to witness humpback whales up close. Whale-watching tours are available for all ages, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
With so much to see and do, Puerto Vallarta is ready to welcome travelers with open arms, offering unforgettable experiences for all.