Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) Festival Puerto Vallarta 2025: A Celebration of Life, Art, and Community
If you’ve ever wanted to experience Día de los Muertos in a way that’s colorful, emotional, and completely alive — Puerto Vallarta is where you want to be this November.
The Day of the Dead Festival 2025 will take place from November 1st to November 2nd, filling the city with color, music, and ancestral energy. What makes it extra special here isn’t just the altars or the marigolds — it’s how the entire community comes together to celebrate those who came before us.
The World’s Tallest Catrina
One of the biggest draws of Puerto Vallarta’s festival (literally!) is its record-breaking Catrina statue — standing over 27 meters tall (88.5 feet). This monumental figure earned Vallarta a Guinness World Record two years in a row (2022 and 2023) for the World’s Tallest Calavera Catrina.
She’s the star of the Malecón — towering above the oceanfront, surrounded by over 80 giant sugar skulls (calaveras), each painted with unique colors and cultural motifs. Whether you’re snapping photos, joining the evening parades, or just walking along the Malecón soaking it in, the energy feels equal parts sacred and cinematic.
The best part is taking a stroll around sunset and catching up with folks and seeing everything at night. There are crowds but its best to be in the lively crowd. If you want to beat the crowds, you’ll have to go in the morning when everyone is hungover, lol.
Cultural Events Across the City
Beyond the art displays, the festival features live performances, altar contests, and traditional dance shows — all celebrating Mexico’s deep-rooted respect for life and death. Locals and visitors alike build ofrendas (altars) honoring loved ones, decorated with candles, flowers, photos, and food offerings.
I met the founder of PV’s family up by the Malecon, I’m not sure if this was their site but there are many like this by the Catrina and at the plaza area with notable PV folks.
If you want to experience the most heartfelt part of Día de los Muertos, visit the cemetery in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood on November 2nd. It’s a true fusion of remembrance and festivity — families gathering to honor their loved ones while vendors outside sell marigolds, pan de muerto, and even offer mariachi performances by candlelight.
Why You Should Go
There’s something magnetic about how Puerto Vallarta celebrates life through death. It’s spiritual, communal, and artistic all at once. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Mexican culture — and probably a few hundred stunning photos, too.
If you’re planning to visit, make sure to stay near the Romantic Zone or the Malecón, where most events take place. Hotels like Almar Resort, Pinnacle Resorts, or Casa Kimberly put you right in the heart of the action. Check out my hotel guides here.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Day of the Dead Festival in Puerto Vallarta 2025?
It takes place November 1–2, 2025, with most events and installations centered along the Malecón and nearby neighborhoods.
Where can I see the giant Catrina?
You’ll find her proudly displayed along the Malecón boardwalk, near downtown Puerto Vallarta. She’s hard to miss — over 27 meters tall!
Is there an entry fee to attend the festival?
No — the event is free and open to the public, though certain activities or performances may have small entry fees.
Can tourists participate in the Day of the Dead activities?
Absolutely. Visitors are welcome to join parades, take photos, visit altars, and attend cultural performances. Just be respectful when visiting cemeteries or family memorials.
What should I wear to the festival?
Comfortable shoes for walking the Malecón and breathable clothing for warm weather during the day — with a light jacket at night. Many visitors wear Catrina-inspired face paint or traditional attire, which adds to the magic.
Where can I find updates or schedules for the 2025 festival?
Follow @visitpuertovallarta on Instagram or check their official site, visitpuertovallarta.com, for full event schedules and location maps. And you’re definitely gonna wanna follow me on Instagram and TikTok as I give live up to the day updates.
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