Puerto Vallarta is preparing for a bustling Easter vacation period as hotel occupancy is projected to reach between 90% and 95% during the upcoming weeks of Semana Santa and Pascua.
Alejandra Cornejo Cornejo, the Director of Municipal Economic Promotion and Tourism, shared these optimistic figures, noting that reservations continue to climb. Experts anticipate that occupancy will stay above 90% throughout Semana Santa, with peak numbers exceeding 95% during the first weekend of April.
This surge in tourism is fueled by a diverse calendar of events that solidify the city’s reputation as a premier destination in Mexico.
A major highlight is the prestigious Food and Travel Reader Awards gala, which will be held in Puerto Vallarta for the first time on March 26. Organized by Food and Travel México magazine, the awards recognize outstanding destinations, hotels, restaurants, chefs, and spas that elevate travel and dining experiences.
Food lovers can also look forward to the Feria del Taco, scheduled for Sunday, March 29 at Parque Parota. The festival will showcase a wide variety of tacos from across the region, featuring both traditional recipes and new culinary ideas. The event will include live entertainment, and admission is free.
Another notable event will feature renowned Spanish designer Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, who will host a charity fashion show on April 8 at the Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta. The event will benefit Fundación Andrea 3.21 and Casa Hogar Máximo Cornejo, supporting important community programs. Those interested in attending can find more details via the Andrea 3.21 Foundation’s Facebook page or by calling 322-318-1061.
Following this, the fourth annual Cacao and Chocolate Festival will be held on April 10 and 11 at Isla del Río Cuale. This celebration explores the deep historical roots of Mexican cacao through educational workshops and tastings, with free admission for all visitors.
These initiatives are part of a broader, successful promotional strategy involving cooperation between government authorities, hotel associations, and the tourism trust. A recent example of this teamwork was the Gala Vallarta, which brought together more than 167 travel agencies. The gathering led to new business agreements and strengthened promotion through guided tours, culinary experiences, and other tourism activities.
Current market trends show that domestic travel remains remarkably resilient, providing a steady foundation for the local economy. At the same time, international visits from the United States are seeing a consistent recovery, and the Canadian market has maintained strong numbers throughout March. The cruise ship industry also plays a vital role in this growth; more than 90% of passengers choose to disembark and explore the city, providing a direct boost to local businesses, restaurants, and tour operators.
Ultimately, the combination of high-profile events, strategic marketing, and inter-agency coordination ensures that Puerto Vallarta will enjoy a prosperous spring season. This collaborative effort not only provides a high-quality experience for visitors but also generates significant economic benefits for the entire community.
For over 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.