Puerto Vallarta is set to glow with holiday spirit as residents and visitors come together for Mar de Regalos (Sea of Gifts), a citywide Christmas festival running from December 18 through January 1. Hosted by the government of Mayor Luis Munguía, the celebration fills the city with music, tradition, and shared moments designed to bring families and neighbors together.
The festivities kick off on December 18 at Los Muertos Pier with the official Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:00 pm. With the ocean breeze and evening lights as the backdrop, the celebration will include a surprise DJ performance and the launch of the DIF System toy drive, inviting attendees to give back and help make the season brighter for local children.
Over the next two weeks, holiday energy spreads across Los Muertos Pier, Los Arcos del Malecón, Parque Hidalgo, and Lázaro Cárdenas Park. Beginning at 6:00 and 7:00 pm each evening, the program offers a lively mix of Christmas movie nights, live DJs, Christmas shows, saxophone performances, traditional villancicos, folkloric dance, boleros, and a range of musical styles – from Bossa Nova and pop to jazz, reggae, and classic Mexican sounds – ensuring something special every night.
Celebrations continue through Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, followed by an exciting stretch of live concerts from December 26 through December 30. Rock fans can head to Los Arcos del Malecón at 8:00 pm to catch performances by Banda Khaoz, Banda Los Barrios, Morfina, and other local favorites as the countdown to the New Year begins.
The festival reaches its high point on December 31 with the Grand New Year’s Eve Festival along the Malecón. Starting at 8:00 pm, the evening features mariachi, cumbia, and a headline performance by The Blaze, all leading up to a fireworks display over the bay that will welcome the New Year in unforgettable style.
The season wraps up on January 1 with the “First Sunset” celebration at Palmares Beach. Beginning at noon, this relaxed seaside gathering invites the community to enjoy the final moments of the holiday season with a day at the beach and a beautiful sunset to start the year.
With free events taking place throughout the city, Mar de Regalos reflects Puerto Vallarta’s spirit of generosity, celebration, and community – an open invitation to share the joy of the season with family and friends.
The full program is available on the Municipal Government of Puerto Vallarta Facebook page, so don’t miss the opportunity to join the celebration and enjoy a Mar de Regalos with your family and friends.
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