Puerto Vallarta's Charros, Bears, and Crocs, Oh My!
From the charro rodeo and Bearadise festival to the Madonnari art extravaganza, this city is a vibrant canvas. But watch out for unexpected crocodile neighbors—Puerto Vallarta, where every day is a lively fiesta.
Ladies and gentlemen, charros and bears, art enthusiasts and party animals, welcome to Puerto Vallarta in 2024—a city where tradition blends seamlessly with festivities, all against the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes and, apparently, a growing crocodile community.
The Charro Extravaganza
From January 31 to February 4, Hacienda Serena will be the battleground for the twelfth International Charro Tournament. With 43 charro teams, 30 skirmishes, and over 1,200 participants, this sports event is set to showcase the best of Mexican and American equestrian prowess. Rancho Laurel, Dos Compadres, and others are saddling up to compete for a prize pool that would make even the most stoic charro crack a smile—2 million pesos! And it's not just about the lassos and sombreros; this year's edition is roping in the fight against breast cancer with free mammograms and lenses. It seems the charros have a heart as big as their sombreros.
Bearadise International Bear Festival
If you thought bears only lived in the woods, think again. From January 31 to February 4, Puerto Vallarta will transform into Bearadise® for a 5-day festival that promises fun, freedom, and furry bodies. With events like the “Go-Go Bear 4 the Honey Contest” and the “Bearback Mountain Pool Party,” it's safe to say this festival is not hibernation-friendly. Paco's Ranch, Rancho La Dulce Vista, and others are ready to embrace the bear lifestyle. Get ready for a festival that proves bears aren't just for cuddling.
Madonnari Festival Chalking Up Artistic Brilliance
From February 9 to 11, the Plaza de Armas will witness the sixteenth edition of the Madonnari ephemeral art festival. More than 25 artists from various corners of Mexico will turn concrete into canvases with chalk pastels. The cash prizes are no child's play, with 20 thousand pesos for the top masterpiece. The lucky winners will even jet off to Santa Barbara, California, for an encore. It's art, but with a dash of competition and a sprinkle of travel.
El Carnaval Puerto Vallarta in a Parade
February 22 to 24 will see the return of El Carnaval Puerto Vallarta, bringing music, party vibes, and a vibrant parade to the city's center. With themes, stages, and the coronation of queens from the LGBT community, it's a celebration that's been rocking the city since 1956. Join the festivities and expect around 20 thousand attendees—it's time to party Vallarta style!
Puerto Vallarta Earns Its Safety Stripes
According to the National Urban Public Safety Survey, Puerto Vallarta proudly claims the title of the second-safest city in Mexico. Feeling safer than ever at 19.4 percent, residents and visitors alike can breathe easy as they navigate the charming streets and stunning beaches.
Puerto Vallarta's Crocodile Chronicles
Who needs mascots when you've got crocodiles making themselves at home in the heart of Puerto Vallarta? Not one, not two, but four of these scaly residents have set up shop near the Cuale River. While residents, tourists, and merchants nervously navigate suspension bridges and riverside paths, the crocs seem unimpressed by the city's hustle and bustle. We're all for wildlife appreciation, but perhaps a crocodile relocation program is in order? Someone call Steve Irwin!
In Puerto Vallarta, every day is a fiesta, and 2024 promises to be an extravaganza of charros, bears, artists, partygoers, and yes, even crocs. So, put on your sombrero, fluff up your fur, pick up some chalk, and let's dance through the streets of this enchanting city where tradition and quirkiness waltz hand in hand. Viva la Vallarta!
