Puerto Vallarta during the Festival of the Lady of Guadalupe

In Mexico, almost every town and every region has their own patron saint and Puerto Vallarta is no different. The Lady of Guadalupe is the patron saint of the area and her festival runs from December the 1st through the 12th. For Puerto Vallarta, this is a tremendous festival, a religious celebration and fair all rolled into one for an entire two week period. If you are going to visit Puerto Vallarta during the first part of December, be sure to check out the amazing festivities and fun that can be found throughout the city during this time./

In a coincidental configuration, the anniversary of the founding of Puerto Vallarta by Don Guadalupe Sanchez in 1851 falls on the 12th of December as well. This is just another reason that the festival is so special and so all encompassing.

In 1531, a dark skinned virgin appeared to a peasant named Juan Diego. Her message was that a church should be built in her honor, thus was born the legend of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This saint is the patron saint of Puerto Vallarta, as well as the patron saint of the entire nation of Mexico. The celebration in her honor stands second only to the Day of the Dead in Mexico, both in terms of popularity and excitement to be found. Each day during the celebration, there are many pilgrimages to the Cathedral in the central square of Puerto Vallarta. Pilgrims follow a leader, often carrying an image of the saint, all chanting the same hymn as they follow. Cheerfully, they wait their turn in line to make their offering to this beloved saint. The atmosphere is filled with the buzz of excitement and joy during the entire two week celebration.

Many special events are planned to occur during this time. It is believed to be propitious to hold wedding ceremonies, baptisms and even communion during this time. All of these events lend even more fervor to the building excitement. There are parties throughout the city; this is truly an event like no other.

One of the best things about this time in Puerto Vallarta, at least as far as visitors are concerned is the incredible shopping. It seems that the entire city comes alive with street vendors selling everything from hand crafted silver jewelry to tooled leather items, hand woven clothing and much more. You will find items for sale during the celebration that you will not find at any other time in the city. Visitors are also welcomed to take part in the festivities, though if you are not of the Catholic faith it is advised that you avoid communion. The fireworks and dining are another amazing experience during this celebration; you can find fantastic food on every corner and the very night air is alive with the glow of fireworks.

This is truly one of the best times to experience the vital culture and amazing vibrancy that is the city of Puerto Vallarta.