Celebrate the Vibrant Traditions of November in Puerto Vallarta

November is a captivating time to visit Puerto Vallarta, beginning with the enchanting Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations. This annual event, running from October 28th to November 2nd, is deeply rooted in Mexican culture and tradition, honoring the deceased with festive and colorful ceremonies.

Día de los Muertos Highlights in Puerto Vallarta:

The Tallest Catrina in the World

A standout attraction, Puerto Vallarta is home to the world’s tallest Catrina. In 2023, the city unveiled a monumental Catrina standing at 28.15 meters (approximately 92.4 feet), surpassing its previous Guinness World Record of 22.67 meters set in 2022. This majestic figure, adorned in traditional attire, is displayed along the Malecón and symbolizes the city’s dedication to preserving Mexican cultural heritage .

Parade of Catrinas and Catrines

One of the most anticipated events is the parade featuring participants dressed as elegant skeletons, known as Catrinas and Catrines. The parade typically begins at the Colonia Cinco de Diciembre cemetery and winds through the city, showcasing traditional costumes and elaborate face paint. This celebration highlights the rich traditions and artistic expressions of the festival .

Altars and Offerings (Ofrendas)

Throughout the city, altars or ‘ofrendas’ are beautifully decorated with marigolds, candles, and offerings of food and drinks for the spirits of the deceased. These altars are a central part of the celebration, found in homes, businesses, and public spaces. Notably, the Isla de los Muertos Festival on Cuale River Island features a special communal altar where visitors can contribute photos of their loved ones, creating a shared space of remembrance .

Cultural Activities and Performances

The festival includes a variety of cultural activities, such as traditional dances, music performances, and art exhibitions. Visitors can also enjoy Mexican cuisine, including special treats like Pan de Muerto, a traditional bread. Events are held at popular locations such as the Malecón, Lázaro Cárdenas Park, Los Muertos Pier, and Cuale River Island .

The Connection Between Halloween and Día de los Muertos:

While Halloween and Día de los Muertos share a similar timeframe, they are distinct celebrations. Halloween, observed on October 31st, focuses on costumes and trick-or-treating, often featuring themes of horror and fear. In contrast, Día de los Muertos is a joyful and respectful celebration of life and death, honoring loved ones who have passed away. Both holidays, however, involve dressing up and remembering the dead, making them a unique blend of cultural practices during this festive season.

Thanksgiving in Puerto Vallarta:

Following Día de los Muertos, Thanksgiving is another special occasion in November. This year, Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 27th, 2025. It’s a time for families to come together, reflect, and express gratitude. Many restaurants in Puerto Vallarta offer traditional Thanksgiving dinners with a Mexican twist, providing visitors with a unique holiday experience.

Weather in November:

Enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s ideal weather in November, characterized by warm temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F) and lower humidity, perfect for beach walks, poolside lounging, and enjoying the gentle breezes.

Join Us for November Festivities:

We invite you to experience the unique blend of culture and celebration in Puerto Vallarta this November.

For more details on the events and activities, you can visit the Puerto Vallarta tourism website or the Vallarta Daily.