Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco – While Puerto Vallarta will not attempt to break its Guinness World Record for the tallest Catrina this year, the iconic 28.15-meter-tall figure remains a significant driver of tourism and social media engagement for this renowned beach destination. First unveiled in 2022 when Puerto Vallarta claimed the Guinness World Record for the largest Catrina at 22.67 meters, the figure was further expanded in 2023 by 5.48 meters, reaching its current towering height of 28.15 meters.
Although the city will not seek to surpass that height in 2024, the focus this year will be on breaking records for visits and online views. The massive skeleton, a symbol deeply tied to Mexico’s Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) traditions, has become a central feature of Puerto Vallarta’s annual celebrations, captivating both locals and visitors alike.
Tourism and Social Media Impact
According to Luis Villaseñor Nolasco, Director of the Public Trust for the Promotion and Advertising of Tourism in Puerto Vallarta (Fidetur), the Catrina has not only become a symbol of Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant culture but also a significant tourism magnet. In 2023, the Catrina garnered 2.5 million views on social media platforms, showcasing its appeal beyond local and national borders. This year, the aim is to surpass 3 million social media views, driven by the growing interest in the festival and the visually stunning representation of Mexico’s iconic Day of the Dead figure.
“La Catrina adds to the experience of the trip, it motivates more people to come during this period, and what we have achieved is a media impact. There were more than 2.5 million hits on social networks last year, and this edition we hope to exceed more than 3 million hits,” explained Villaseñor Nolasco.
Tourism officials predict that daily foot traffic to the city’s boardwalk, where the Catrina is prominently displayed, will increase to over 20,000 visitors per day, up from the 13,000 to 15,000 daily visitors recorded last year. This influx of tourists during the Day of the Dead celebrations provides a notable boost to the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and other businesses in the area.
Catrina’s Role in Puerto Vallarta’s “Remember Me” Festival
Despite only two years since its debut, Puerto Vallarta’s monumental Catrina has quickly become a cornerstone of the city’s Day of the Dead festivities. The annual festival, now officially branded as “Remember Me,” features a variety of cultural events, parades, and traditional altars honoring the deceased. The festival has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated events, attracting tourists from across Mexico and abroad.
In addition to the Catrina, Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of immersive experiences tied to the holiday, including traditional performances, altar exhibits, and nighttime parades featuring dancers and musicians. The Catrina’s majestic presence on the boardwalk enhances these cultural offerings, giving visitors a stunning visual spectacle to complement their exploration of Mexican traditions.
Economic and Cultural Significance
Puerto Vallarta’s focus on the Catrina reflects the city’s broader efforts to blend cultural preservation with modern tourism strategies. The large-scale Catrina, coupled with social media promotion, positions Puerto Vallarta as a dynamic destination where visitors can enjoy the beauty of Mexico’s beaches while also engaging with its deep-rooted cultural traditions.
This balance between culture and tourism is essential for the city’s growth, as it not only drives visitor numbers but also fosters greater awareness and appreciation of Mexico’s heritage. Events such as “Remember Me” serve to highlight Puerto Vallarta’s unique place in Mexico’s cultural landscape, ensuring the city remains a top choice for both domestic and international travelers.
As the 2024 festivities approach, all eyes are once again on the Catrina, both in Puerto Vallarta and across social media platforms worldwide. This year’s celebration, though not aimed at breaking height records, aims to leave its mark through record-breaking engagement and unforgettable cultural experiences for all who visit.
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco – While Puerto Vallarta will not attempt to break its Guinness World Record for the tallest Catrina this year, the iconic 28.15-meter-tall figure remains a significant driver of tourism and social media engagement for this renowned beach destination. First unveiled in 2022 when Puerto Vallarta claimed the Guinness World Record for the largest Catrina at 22.67 meters, the figure was further expanded in 2023 by 5.48 meters, reaching its current towering height of 28.15 meters.
