Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – In front of thousands and thousands of Puerto Vallarta residents and visitors, interim mayor Francisco José Martínez Gil proudly led the El Grito de Independencia ceremony on Sunday night. With the cries of “¡Viva Puerto Vallarta!”, “¡Viva Jalisco!”, and “¡Viva México!”, he honored the historic speech given 214 years ago by priest Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, which sparked Mexico’s fight for independence.
The patriotic ceremony began with the military presentation of the flag, stirring pride in the hearts of everyone in attendance. At eleven o’clock, Martínez Gil stepped onto the balcony of the General Secretariat at the Municipal Palace. From there, he paid tribute to the heroes who fought for Mexico’s freedom, ringing the symbolic bell just as Hidalgo did centuries ago, and waving the national flag high.
The event gathered large crowds along Morelos Street, the boardwalk, Plaza de Armas, and surrounding areas. Joining Martínez Gil were Brigadier General Jesús Alejandro Adame Cabrera, commander of the 41st Military Zone, Rear Admiral Juan Antonio Pineda Verdeja, commander of the 12th Naval Zone, and the mayor’s family, including his son.
As the national anthem filled the air, the sky above Puerto Vallarta lit up with a spectacular ten-minute fireworks display that left the audience awestruck. The festive spirit continued on the boardwalk, where music and dancing carried on well into the early hours of Monday.
Earlier in the evening, a lively festival took place on the boardwalk, featuring the Xiutla Municipal Folk Group, whose vibrant performances highlighted the rich traditions of Mexico. Entertainment continued with comedian Memo Ríos, followed by live performances from Banda Komando Mr, Arcano, Mariachi Internacional de México, and the iconic Sonora Dinamita, bringing the celebration to a joyful close.
The Grito de Independencia in Puerto Vallarta was a night of unity, pride, and celebration, honoring Mexico’s history while bringing the community together in unforgettable festivity.