If Puerto Vallarta could entice and inspire Elizabeth Taylor and Tennessee Williams, imagine what it could do for you. With its white sands, crystal clear waters and bronze bodies, Puerto Vallarta has long since been a favourite destination for LGBT travelers and allies.
This year, Puerto Vallarta Pride celebrates its fourth year by welcoming 12,000 visitors with the theme “We are one family,” making it the biggest and most inclusive festival to date. Running from May 16 to 29, Puerto Vallarta Pride will offer visitors plenty of events, parties and parades. To help you get the most of your visit, here’s a shortlist of items to add to your calendar.
Welcome Zoo Pool Party
Sometimes Pride parties can seem like the lions are running the zoo (which isn’t a bad thing). Show off your wild side at Mantamar Beach Club’s animal inspired pool party. While you could certainly buy a new leopard-print speedo for the occasion, you might want to consider going au naturel. Like Blanche Devereaux says: Why paint the peacock?
Sunday, May 22, 2016
10am–6pm
Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Grill
International March Against Homophobia
Despite messages of love, acceptance and jubilation, it’s important to remember that modern day Pride celebrations have their roots in social protest. Come join your brothers, sisters, allies and fellow freedom fighters as you take to the streets and demand equality for all as part of the International March Against Homophobia.
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
6–9pm
From Sheraton Buganvilias to Los Arcos in Centro
Sunset Marriage Ceremony
Same-sex marriage was officially made legal in the state of Jalisco on May 12, 2016, which means Puerto Vallarta is among the ever-growing regions in Mexico where you can tie the knot. Surrounded by friends and family, join fellow revelers at magic hour to celebrate your love — complete with cake and a champagne toast.
Tuesday May 24, 2016
8–11pm
Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Grill
Drag Derby
If drag queens are that agile in stilettos, imagine how nimble they’ll be in roller skates. And if placing bets on battling babes isn’t your scene, fret not: this event also doubles as a block party. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find a neighbour to lend you a cup of sugar.
Thursday, May 26, 2016
6–10pm
Intersection of Pulpito and Olas Altas
Vallarta Gay Bar Hopping
No Pride would be complete without a visit to some of the local watering holes. And Puerto Vallarta is at no loss for hosting some of the most vibrant and accepting bars, clubs and pubs in the region. Come join a group of fellow partiers and wet your whistle — at least — at a selection of the best haunts in town.
Tuesday, May 24, 2016
8pm–1:30am
Fusion Gourmet
Gay Art Walk
If beaches and bars aren’t your scene, perhaps you’ll feel more at home in one of Puerto Vallarta’s many galleries. From the Colectika Ancestral Contemporary Art Gallery that boasts indigenous and modern works, to the Galería Caballito de Mar that showcases breathtaking jewelry and textiles, you can take in your own version of eye candy.
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
9–10:30pm
Vallarta Pride 2016
May 16–29, 2016
vallartapride.com
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