Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – Puerto Vallarta is gearing up for a jubilant celebration as it marks a historic milestone: 106 years as a municipality and 56 years as a city. Since its humble beginnings as Las Peñas, this picturesque destination has blossomed into a vibrant cultural hub, attracting visitors from around the globe.
On May 31, 1918, the Jalisco State Congress bestowed municipal status upon the area, renaming it Puerto Vallarta. Five decades later, with burgeoning infrastructure and improved transportation links, it earned the prestigious title of a city.
To honor these landmark anniversaries, a spectacular array of festivities is planned for May 30th and 31st, centered around iconic venues like the Los Arcos del Malecón Amphitheater, the Main Plaza, and the Malecón Lighthouse Esplanade.
Thursday, May 30th will feature “Puerto Vallarta, Two Meetings with Its History,” an informative event in the central patio of the municipal presidency, followed by the Jazz World Music Festival at the Los Arcos del Malecón Amphitheater.
On May 31, the traditional town hall plenary meeting will commemorate the official anniversary, where attendees will be treated to a slice of a giant birthday cake by city authorities, headed by the Mayor of Puerto Vallarta.
Later, the streets will come alive with the inaugural Puerto Vallarta anniversary parade, which will start at the Sheraton Hotel and snake its way through the heart of the city before culminating in a grand ceremony at the Malecón Lighthouse Esplanade.
The highlight of the celebration is the unveiling of a mural dedicated to the legendary Elizabeth Taylor, who famously fell in love with Puerto Vallarta during the filming of “The Night of the Iguana” in the 1960s. Renowned local artist Sharo García will also lend her talents, transforming the Lighthouse on Matamoros Street into a vibrant expression of Puerto Vallarta’s spirit.
As dusk settles, the celebrations reach a crescendo with a dazzling fireworks display and a free concert by a surprise musical act. Past celebrations have seen renowned performers like Pepe Aguilar and Los Ángeles Azules grace the stage, thrilling both locals and visitors.
Beyond the revelry, this double anniversary invites reflection on Puerto Vallarta’s remarkable journey and the strides it has made as a community. Through photo exhibits, lectures, and exciting cultural events, residents and visitors alike can delve into the city’s rich tapestry of history and heritage.
As Puerto Vallarta commemorates its past and embraces its future, the double anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring allure of this enchanting seaside paradise.