Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The grounds of Biblioteca Los Mangos transformed into a hub of community spirit on Sunday, December 15, as 350 supporters gathered for the Vallarta School for Girls’ Tropical Christmas Garden Party. The evening was a festive success, blending holiday cheer with a clear focus on expanding educational opportunities for local students.
Guests embraced the “tropical holiday” theme with enthusiasm, pairing palm-print shirts with Santa hats and sparkly sandals to create a relaxed yet celebratory atmosphere under the evening’s warm breeze.
The program was guided by host Derek Carkner, who balanced humor with heartfelt stories about the school’s mission. The stage saw a diverse range of talent, beginning with an energetic set by Delilah Beaucoup that set a joyful tone for the night.
A central highlight followed as the school’s own choir, led by volunteer teacher Stolie, performed in festive angel costumes. Stolie noted that while the girls often feel a bit of nervous excitement, the experience of performing for a large audience helps them build significant confidence.
Musical momentum continued to build with performances by Mau, Kevin Anthony, and Stolie, along with a surprise appearance by international vocalist Enrique de Allende. The musical portion of the night culminated in a high-energy set by Kim Kuzma, whose performance drew guests to the dance floor to celebrate the season.
Beyond the entertainment, the event was a collaborative culinary effort. Teachers from the school prepared the meal with help from Alfonso Aguilar of Home Improvement PV, who served as the evening’s grill master. Chef Roman Ventura, a Silver Sponsor, collaborated with the girls to ensure smooth dinner service, emphasizing how rewarding it was to see the community come together to support the students’ future.
As the celebration drew to a close, founder Francie Nguyen reflected on a landmark year for the institution. In 2025, the school formalized its first board of directors, held its inaugural graduation, and broke ground on a brand-new campus. The fundraiser itself mirrored this growth, raising over 345,000 pesos – an 11% increase over last year’s total. These funds are vital for the continued construction of the school’s facilities and the expansion of its programs.
This momentum is expected to carry into early 2026 with a series of upcoming events. On January 25, Mary Porter will produce Stars With a Heart at Teatro Vallarta, featuring a massive lineup of local and international performers. This will be followed on February 22 by Kevin Anthony: Elevated, a concert featuring a 44-piece symphony orchestra. The spring season will conclude with the elegant Black and White Gala on March 2.
Those interested in supporting the school’s mission or purchasing tickets for future events can find more information at girlsedfund.org.