Puerto Vallarta is always an awe-inspiring setting where travelers from all over the world experience moments of incredible intensity. This destination stands out for its beautiful seaside landscapes, enchanting nature that in certain spots takes over completely, its unparalleled urban offerings, and the magical traditions and cultural expressions that always enrich the soul of those who visit the region. If you have a few free days in your schedule, don’t hesitate to head to this city, which awaits, 365 days a year, with magnificent surprises for the tourist.
If on the upcoming 12th of December you find yourself visiting the coast of Puerto Vallarta, this beautiful city in the state of Jalisco, you will have the chance to experience one of the most important celebrations that Mexico’s region offers. Here you will take part in the traditional Feast of Guadalupe, in honor of the Patroness of the Americas, a celebration that transcends religious barriers, as it is a true cultural expression to enjoy to the fullest during your visit.
The religious events take place during the first 12 days of December, which include processions, masses, and acts performed on the streets, at the Church of Guadalupe, and at other Catholic temples in the city. These are dates when the people enjoy and celebrate, with a lot of faith and devotion, the appearance of Our Lady in the year 1531 on a hill known as Tepeyac. Back then, a beautiful dark-skinned woman communicated with a local indigenous man named Juan Diego. She identified herself as the Virgin Mary and asked him to, along with the local bishop, build a church stone by stone on that site. Many legends, stories, and myths surround the Virgin of Guadalupe, and every one of them narrates, in turn, the rich life of Mexico.
During the Feast of Guadalupe, the most important religious celebration in Vallarta, the vast majority of businesses, shops, hotels, restaurants, neighborhoods, and civil associations organize a procession to the church to attend the special mass dedicated to the Virgin. This ceremony is lived with special joy, as folkloric dancers, floats with religious motifs, prayers, and the fireworks that fill the sky with color make this date one of the most emotional of the year.
Besides these religious and cultural celebrations, December 12th also marks the anniversary of Puerto Vallarta, as in 1851, Don Guadalupe Sánchez Torres settled alongside his family and some friends on the banks of the beautiful Cuale River, thus beginning the urban life of this area. For this reason, the streets of this city on the Mexican Pacific coast become a true party, full of colors, aromas, flavors, and music. So many great reasons to celebrate!
Visit Puerto Vallarta! Spend wonderful days enjoying the beaches in this beautiful coastal city, feeling the freshness of the sea under the radiant sun that always brightens up the afternoons. But if you choose this month to travel, you will also be able to enjoy one of the most beautiful celebrations in the country! Shall we?
Portuguese Versión: Festa de Guadalupe: a celebração religiosa mais importante de Vallarta