If you are looking for some nail biting action, and aren't particularly averse to blood and gore, then the bullfights at Plaza de Toros is right up your alley.
Wednesday evenings at the Plaza de Toros begin which a long and elaborate parade, after which the bull is thrust into the arena, where two picadors maul its shoulders with lances to weaken it. The second stage of the fight is when the bandelleras poke their long and gaily colored darts into the bull's shoulders to further maim and weaken it. The fight then commences to the third and final stage, which is heralded by a chorus of trumpets and loud cheering. The matador, in his traditional suit of sparkling lights, is ushered into the ring, where he grapples with the bull on a one-on-one basis, until the animal is finally vanquished. The matador first taunts the bull with his scarlet cape, skillfully dodging it when it charges. This enrages the weakened and now dying bull, leading it to where the matador wants it to go... to a strategic spot which is in full-view of the audience and the judges, where he delivers the final estocada or fatal sword thrust into the bull's neck, killing the animal.
One of the most time-honored traditions of Mexico, bullfighting has its own share of enthusiasts, who flock to the ostentatious bullfights every weak. However, for the first-timer who doesn't know quite what to expect, it can be a very nerve-wrecking experience to watch the violent affair and a very unsavory encounter for animal lovers. Also, these fights always end with the bull being vanquished, and painfully at that.
Bullfights are conducted at the Plaza de Toros from November to April and begin at 5 in the evening. Admission is priced at $25 per person. For further information, you can contact the Plaza de Toros at 322 224 1175.
La Paloma Plaza de Toros
Puerto Vallarta, IB 48310 Mexico
