Huicholes or Wixárika, Original Mexican cultures
Summary
- Mexico’s culture and traditions are the result of a rich and complex heritage that is reflected in the language, religion, art, music, literature, cuisine, and customs of its people.
- Our country offers a wealth of amazing experiences and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
- We have a vibrant and resilient society, with a strong sense of pride connected to regional communities and their folklore and traditions.
- Mexico is a friendly and hospitable country, with a warm and welcoming attitude towards visitors and foreigners.
This section is dedicated to Mexico.
We offer general information on traditions, famous Mexicans, food and drink, prehispanic info and more. When you are informed you can enjoy the new Mexican experiences even more.
We know you’ll find useful information here and that it will help you get the most out of your trip to Puerto Vallarta plus you’ll learn a bit more about this very interesting country: Viva México!
Mexican Arts & Traditions
Traditional Mariachi/Charro dances
- Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) a party for the living
Learn a bit more about this very interesting and refreshing Mexican tradition. - El Grito
The Grito de Dolores is celebrated every year on the night between September 15th and 16th is a Mexican holiday par excellence, it is the night when all citizens of Mexico celebrate their independence from the Spanish conquerors. - La Charreria and the Charro, that’s Mexico
Jalisco, the state where Puerto Vallarta is located, is the birthplace of most of the traditions that best represent Mexico. - Mexico, folklore, and festivities
Mexico is synonymous with bright colors, songs, dances, ceremonies, fireworks, original costumes and more… - Mexico, heir to two great culture
Mexico is the heir of great civilizations like the Aztecs, Mayas and Olmecs and the European Spanish culture… - Mexican Rock Music 1 – Part 2
A shortlist of some of the best rock groups and solo artists in Mexico, some you already know, but we hope you find some new inspiration too. - Piñatas
Though anybody would swear piñatas are Mexican, their history is quite interesting and starts off in China. (Origin of the Pinata; Piñatas in Italy and Spain; Pinatas arrive in Mexico; Modern Mexican Pinatas).
Mexican Food and Drink
The Mexican Piñata
- Beans & Mexico
Another legacy to the world, this time a legume, that traveled to Europe, back and around the world. - Coffee Made in Mexico
Mexico is an important coffee producer worldwide. Among the other Mexican coffee-growing states (Veracruz, Oaxaca, Puebla), it is still Chiapas that is the most important. - History of Mexican Wine
(Warning, do not access if you are under the local drinking age)
Mexico is the oldest American wine producer, but its industry of quality wines is relatively recent. The wine was consumed as food, medicine and to regain strength. - Local dishes
There’s a lot to choose from when you start trying the local Vallarta food and traditional Jalisco dishes… - Mexican Christmas Food
Christmas feast in Mexico is a mix of prehispanic recipes, New World ingredients and a lot of fusion and fun. (Introduction and Posada food; Guajolote Mole & The Tomato Invasion; Romeritos & The Sweet Finale) - Mexican Sweets & Candies
Learn about the history behind Mexico’s distinctive sweets and the innumerable regional candies. - Mexico’s delicious and edible insects
Learn a bit more about the insects that are a culinary treat in Mexico (three parts). (Edible Insects, intro & some history; Edible Insects in Mexico; Off the frying pan and into the mouth) - Mexican Wines
(Warning, do not access if you are under the local drinking age)
The history of Mexican wines and how they are related to Mexico’s history, presidents and more. (The grape in Mexican lands; Parras’ liquid abundance.; First Hacienda Owners; Marquises de Aguayo; Madero Dynasty.; Hacienda San Lorenzo and the Casa Madero; Así es mi tierra.) - Mezcal (Mescal), part of the Mexican liquor trilogy
(Warning, do not access if you are under the local drinking age)
Read more about this world-famous drink, made famous by its maguey worm. - Raicilla
(Warning, do not access if you are under the local drinking age)
This illegally produced distilled beverage is now coming out of the limelight in now legal production. - Tacos
No other food represents Mexico more completely than a few tacos eaten by a taco stand in the streets of Puerto Vallarta… - Tequila, a gift from the Gods
(Warning, do not access if you are under the local drinking age)
The most famous of all Mexican alcoholic beverages, Tequila is synonymous with Mexico and any local party includes it by default. - Vanilla
A local spice, a worldwide favorite a long and interesting history, learn more about this flavor obtained from orchids. - Wise Men, Tamales, and Roscas on January 6th
The traditional celebration of the arrival of the Three Wise Men, which in the past replaced Santa Claus and even Christmas celebrations.
Famous and from Mexico
The Monarch Butterflies migrate to Mexico
- Juventino Rosas, the waltz that conquered the world
Only one other waltz vies with the “Blue Danube” for the privilege of being played around the world every day, every hour. It is “Over the waves”… - The Monarch Butterfly Migration to Mexico
Millions of fragile butterflies travel over 3000 miles from USA and Canada down to the forests in the stated of Michoacán en México, read more on this unique natural event. - Our Patron Saint, la Virgen de Guadalupe
All about the Virgin de Guadalupe, millions of devoted followers converge on Mexico City or selected towns, like Puerto Vallarta, to celebrate December 12th. - Pancho Villa
Along with Moctezuma and Benito Juarez, Pancho Villa is probably the best known Mexican personality throughout the world. Legends of Villa’s exploits abound not only in Mexico but in the United States… - Silvestre Revueltas
For many of his countrymen, he is the most modern of Mexican musicians; for many foreigners, he is the most Mexican of modern musicians. - Wixarica Folk Art, colors and tradition
The most important indigenous group in Mexico, their art, their traditions, and mysticism, very interesting.
Prehispanic Mexico
Prehispanic Mexico
- The Papantla Bird-men
A glimpse of Mexico’s past in a ceremonial dance that lasts to this day. - The Sacred Aztec Ball Game
Prehispanic ball game or ulama, an Aztec word derived from ollin, which means movement, struggle, and union of opposites… - The Sun God and the Prehispanic Mexicans
For many centuries before the arrival of the Spaniards, the indigenous people who lived in Mexican territory had shown a profound devotion and respect for the sun… - Temascal, the indigenous vapor bath
Learn more about the traditions and history of the Mexican Temascal, a prehispanic sauna…
Charros, the Mexican Cowboys
FAQ
- What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
The Marina and the Romantic Zone are considered some of the safest areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Both areas are popular among tourists and offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The Marina is known for its upscale atmosphere, luxury resorts, and high-end shops and restaurants. It has a very secure, controlled environment with 24/7 security personnel. The Romantic Zone offers a more authentic Mexican experience with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a vibrant mix of galleries, cafes, and bars. As a central tourist area, it also has a strong police presence and is considered very safe.
- Where do locals go in Puerto Vallarta?
Locals in Puerto Vallarta enjoy spending time at the city’s beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and lively local markets. Popular beach spots include Playa de Oro, Playa Las Animas, and Playa Camarones for their soft sand and calm waters. Many locals visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush vegetation and hiking trails. They also frequent authentic local food venues like Birrieria las 3 Regiones taco stand, cafes like Cafecito Vallarta, and neighborhood bars like La Cerveceria Union. The downtown Lazaro Cardenas market is a favorite for produce, spices, crafts.
- Is Downtown Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes, downtown Puerto Vallarta is an exceptionally nice and popular area, celebrated for its vibrant mix of historic Mexican charm and a lively beach town atmosphere. It features a picturesque historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. The downtown seamlessly blends into the scenic Malecón, a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk lined with fascinating sculptures, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for strolling and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The area offers an excellent variety of dining, from upscale restaurants to authentic street food, along with fantastic shopping in boutiques and art galleries. Adjacent to the main center is the popular Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), known for its trendy vibe and energetic nightlife. The entire downtown is considered safe and is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on foot.
Tip: For an unforgettable experience, head down to the Malecón or any beachfront spot about 30 minutes before the scheduled sundown to watch the spectacular sunset over the bay.
- What is considered old town in Puerto Vallarta?
Old Town, also known as the Romantic Zone or Zona Romántica, is considered the historic heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, classic whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and a lively mix of shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, Old Town has a traditional Mexican village charm with its colonial architecture and slower pace compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta. Its romantic ambience comes from the area’s natural beauty, outdoor cafes, and charming boutique hotels. Old Town offers visitors a taste of an authentic Mexican neighborhood.
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