Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – In an atmosphere imbued with vibrant colors, aromas, and a rich cultural tapestry, municipal president, Professor Luis Alberto Michel Rodríguez, inaugurated the 2023 Day of the Dead Festival on the iconic Malecón of Puerto Vallarta. The event is not just a local celebration but a global tourist attraction that serves as a cultural exchange platform.
“This event is not only an opportunity to connect with our roots and celebrate our culture, but also to share it with the entire world,” said Professor Michel Rodríguez during the inaugural ceremony. “The Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta has become a tourist attraction for visitors from all over the planet. This cultural exchange enriches us all, as it allows us to show the beauty and depth of our traditions to a global audience.”
The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s most celebrated traditions. Far from being a macabre occasion, the festivity aims to commemorate the lives of deceased loved ones. “It is one of the most iconic festivities in Mexico, in which we do not commemorate death itself, but rather celebrate the lives of those who are already with us,” added Prof. Michel. “The festivity fuses the traditional with the spiritual and here in Puerto Vallarta, we do it in an exceptional way.”
The tradition incorporates the construction of altars and the display of ‘catrinas’, elegantly dressed skeletal figures, as a tribute to the deceased. “Through the altars we remember and honor our loved ones who came before us on the path, building offerings full of meaningful color and respect. Each lit candle, each flower placed, and each plate of food is a testimony of our love and affection towards those who are no longer among us,” Prof. Michel elaborated.
What distinguishes the Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta is the presence of the world’s largest Catrina, a Guinness World Record holder. “La Catrina, with her elegant clothing and skeletal face, symbolizes the duality of life and death. Her presence here adds a touch of grandeur and pride to our celebration,” stated the municipal president.
Christian Preciado Cázares, the director of Tourism and Economic Development, reported a significant increase in participation this year, with almost 40 catrinas set up on the Malecón and 30 altars in the external hallways of the Municipal Palace. Moreover, approximately 40 companies will participate in the parade on November 2, surpassing last year’s numbers. “Year after year we are growing and adding,” he said.
In addition, members from the Sister Cities committees of Santa Barbara and Highland Park are expected to visit during the festivities. Present at the ceremony were key figures from the Sister City of McAllen, Texas, alongside local dignitaries, cementing the cultural ties between various communities.
Awards were presented to all participants in the exhibition of catrinas and altars, and a large delegation led by Prof. Michel took a tour to appreciate these setups. “Today we inaugurate these wonderful altars, and we hope to admire the majesty of our catrina in the coming days,” concluded Prof. Michel. “Let us remember that this tradition is an expression of love, respect, and joy for life. Let us continue celebrating this holiday together, sharing our roots with the world and building bridges of understanding between cultures.”
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – In an atmosphere imbued with vibrant colors, aromas, and a rich cultural tapestry, municipal president, Professor Luis Alberto Michel Rodríguez . . .
