Vallarta Blog

Puerto Vallarta’s Independence Day celebrations went off with a big bang Saturday night on the Malecon. People of all ages lined the street, in commemoration of 190 years of   Independence from Spain.

There were so many people at the arches and outdoor amphitheater area of the Malecon, it was virtually impossible to pass through the crowd. With a giant fireworks display and live music on every corner, the authentic Mexican fiesta was exciting and busy.

Everywhere you looked, Mexican flags were waving and red white and green was the theme for the evening. Many people wore traditional Mexican clothing, beautiful expensive sombreros and colorful woven garments, small children dressed up in their finest, armed with noisemakers and treats.

In the vendor area you could have your choice of everything from fruit to crepes, candy, juices, elotes, popcorn and tacos, all lined up for snacking pleasure and visual satisfaction. The usual men and women selling jewelry and small toys joined by vendors with flashing light toys, sombreros, party favors, kids toys and even more flags.

The fireworks display lasted at least half an hour, starting off with a stationary show that spun with colorful sparks and ended with dozens of majestic bursts exploding above the Malecon. When the fireworks ended the crowd moved slowly along the road, an ocean of people going in all directions.

Many bars and clubs had special events for the evening, especially the ones located on the Malecon. Packed to capacity, people partied on into the wee hours of the morning dancing and having an all around good time. All the restaurants in that area were full on what I am sure was the busiest night of the month for local businesses.

September being the slowest month of the year here in Puerto Vallarta, the Independence Day celebration was a nice break to the mellow atmosphere as of lately. Although it did rain earlier in the evening, the weather was perfect for an outdoor fiesta and a lot of fun was had by all who attended the events in the central part of town.