Mexican Christmas Traditions in Puerto Vallarta

Step into a world where the air is filled with joyous melodies, the streets adorned with colorful decorations, and the festive spirit weaves its magic into every corner—welcome to Christmas vacation in Puerto Vallarta. Embracing the warmth of Mexican culture traditions, this enchanting destination invites you to experience the Christmas and holiday season like no other. Join us as we explore one of the best places to spend Christmas, delving into the heart of the Christmas season, things to do on Christmas Eve in Puerto Vallarta, and immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of Mexican Christmas traditions that make this time of year truly special.

Twelve Days of Parades

As the Christmas and holiday season unfolds, the city comes alive with vibrant parades paying homage to the revered Virgin of Guadalupe. These processions, filled with music, dance, and elaborate displays, are a testament to the deep-rooted Mexican Christmas traditions that have been passed down through generations. Communities, businesses, schools, and parishes from all over gather each day from December 1st to the 12th to participate in the parades that end at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish at the center of town.

The Guadalupana Processions in Puerto Vallarta were declared “Intangible Cultural Heritage of the State of Jalisco” in 2018, for displaying the collective identity of the region’s people. If you spend your winter in Puerto Vallarta or you’re in town during this time, get ready to be captivated by the magical atmosphere that surrounds these celebrations and be sure to indulge in any number of treats set up along the parade path. There will be food, drink, toys and festivities, all part of what makes this one of the best places to spend Christmas.

Posadas Galore

One cannot fully embrace the Mexican Christmas season without participating in the traditional posadas. Whether it is with your neighbors, at a local business, or with family and friends, these heartfelt holiday parties bring visitors and locals together in celebration. While the roots of this Mexican Christmas tradition has ties to religion, more modern celebrations focus less on religious aspects and more on the party. It isn’t uncommon for people to attend numerous posadas throughout the beginning of winter in Puerto Vallarta, with the first few weeks of December filling up with these social gatherings, gift exchanges, and diverse Mexican culture traditions.

During each of these holiday parties, expect to eat, drink, and be merry while playing games, breaking open piñatas, watching renditions of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging, and of course, lots of singing and dancing. Join the locals and visitors alike as they come together to share in the joy of the Christmas and holiday season during posadas galore.

Breaking Open the Christmas Season with Joy

While you might associate piñatas with birthday parties, your Christmas vacation in Puerto Vallarta may be filled with them. Venture into local markets, walk around town, or look around your resort and you’ll likely see a number of piñatas hanging up, not only as decoration, but as a promise of the festivities that are sure to come. The delightful tradition of breaking Christmas piñatas is enjoyed not just by kids, but by adults too. These festive creations, filled with treats and surprises, add an extra touch of merriment to the winter in Puerto Vallarta. Engage in the joyous activity of breaking open these colorful treasures and partake in the festive spirit that fills the air.

Visit the Exploring Puerto Vallarta's Art Walk - From October to May.

Noche Buena - A Feast on Christmas Eve in Puerto Vallarta

Different from other parts of the world, in Mexico, families and friends gather on December 24th, rather than on the 25th to celebrate Christmas. On Noche Buena, or Christmas Eve in Puerto Vallarta, you can indulge your taste buds in the culinary delights of Christmas in Mexico. This lavish feast embodies the true essence of Mexican Christmas traditions, bringing people together with food, drink, and a festive holiday spirit. Wander through your resort or the streets of town on Christmas Eve and you’ll find that the aroma of traditional dishes fills the air, creating an unforgettable experience for those spending their Christmas vacation in Puerto Vallarta.

It's also the Whale Watching Season!

El Dia de Reyes

Mexican culture traditions don’t end on Christmas Eve, but instead on El Dia de Reyes, or King’s Day on January 6th. People all over experience the joy and excitement as children receive gifts and partake in festive activities, bringing a perfect end to the holiday season. On this day, you’ll likely break bread with friends and family as you share a rosca de reyes, a sweet bread that is tradition during this time. The rosca has hidden figurines inside, and anyone who uncovers one is supposed to bring tamales for everyone on February 2nd in honor of the Three Wise Men.

Puerto Vallarta is by far one of the best places to spend Christmas and the days leading up to it. If you’re in town during this time, you can enjoy a long list of Mexican culture traditions to make your Christmas vacation in Puerto Vallarta even more special. From parades to posadas, there is a wealth of fun to be had and visitors are invited to partake in every moment.

Read more aboyt Villa del Palmar Puerto Vallarta - The Ultimate Destination for the Party of the Year.