Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, México – From Thursday, January 29 through Sunday, February 1, the Lienzo Charro Miguel “Prieto” Ibarría will host one of Mexico’s most prestigious equestrian events: the Vallarta International Charro Championship 2026. The four-day celebration is expected to bring top competitors, families, and culture enthusiasts from across Mexico and the United States to Puerto Vallarta.
Charrería, a discipline recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, transforms traditional cattle farming skills into a high-stakes competitive art form, blending athletic discipline with deep-rooted cultural values.
The upcoming tournament features a prestigious lineup of 30 teams, including top-tier competitors from the United States and Mexico’s most decorated champions. Fans can look forward to seeing El Soyate, the reigning national champions, alongside legendary twelve-time champions Charros de Jalisco. These athletes will compete in nine distinct challenges, ranging from high-speed bareback bronc riding to the precise roping of livestock, all while adhering to the strict etiquette and traditional dress that distinguishes the Mexican Charro.
Adding to the spectacle, 24 escaramuzas teams will bring synchronized elegance to the arena. These groups of women, dressed in ornate Adelita and Ranchera attire, perform intricate maneuvers at a gallop while riding sidesaddle. Their presence highlights the balance of grace and bravery that defines the sport, ensuring that the championship is as much a visual spectacle as it is a test of horsemanship.
Competition begins on Thursday, January 29, with afternoon and evening events. Friday and Saturday charreadas are scheduled at 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, 5:00 pm, and 8:00 pm. The grand final takes place on Sunday, February 1, with championship rounds at 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm, when eight teams will vie for the title.
Tickets are priced at 200 pesos on Thursday and Friday and 250 pesos on Saturday and Sunday. They are available at Restaurante Casa Nicol and La Bodega in the Romantic Zone, Frutería San Miguel in Colonia Villa de Guadalupe, and at the Lienzo Charro box office throughout the event.
Beyond competition, the championship offers a full cultural program, including live music, traditional food, exhibitions, a commercial area featuring vendors from across Mexico, and a children’s zone. A special highlight is the Dancing Horses exhibition on Saturday, January 31, at 11:30 pm.
The festivities extend beyond the arena and into the heart of the community. On Friday, January 30, the traditional Maleconeada parade will begin at 11:45 pm at the ZOO Bar, leading a procession of horsemen along the downtown Malecón. This public celebration allows residents and visitors to interact with the participants and enjoy live music in a festive atmosphere.
The Miguel “Prieto” Ibarría Rodeo Grounds are located at Villa Las Flores, Sin Nombre, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, 48317. The Vallarta International Charro Championship 2026 promises four days of tradition, competition, and community, offering a memorable look at one of Mexico’s most treasured cultural sports.
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