Here’s a taste of what to expect at Vallarta Pride in Mexico

We love Puerto Vallarta. Regular readers of GayCities will need little introduction to the coastal city. It’s undoubtedly Mexico’s most gay-friendly beach destination and boasts plenty of queer bars, clubs, and businesses.

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in the state of Jalisco, it’s known for hosting big, queer festivals and parties. In fact, the circuit parties almost eclipse the city’s very own Pride festival, which returns next week for its 13th outing.

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The 2026 Pride festival (‘La Nueva Era’) runs from May 17 to 24. It kicks off with the annual Pet Parade this Sunday (May 18). Expect pet owners to show off their furry friends in their best Mexican and rainbow-inspired outfits.

The big pride parade will weave its way through the streets of Puerto Vallarta on Thursday, May 21. It’s followed by the traditional Block Party, from 6pm, at Calle Lázaro Cárdenas.

On Saturday, May 23, Pride Games take over the beach area in front of Daiquiri D*ck’s. It’s open to two-man teams. On the same day, a Pride Fair, celebrating the festival’s Mexican roots, takes place at Parque Lázaro Cardenas/Ó Parque de los Azulejos. Check out the official website for the full details.

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Why Puerto Vallarta?

If you’re too late to book for this year’s Pride festivities, Puerto Vallarta offers sunshine throughout the year.

The city combines stunning natural beauty with vibrant culture. There’s the cobblestoned Old Town and the romantic Malecón seaside promenade lined with sculptures and restaurants.

For the more adventurous, there’s zip-lining through the jungle canopy, whale watching, and snorkeling in Banderas Bay.

It offers gay-friendly accommodation to suit all budgets, along with plenty of bars and clubs, such as CC Slaughters and Paco’s Ranch. For daytime fun, resorts such as Mantamar and Blue Chairs will keep you coming back again and again.

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