A Tropical Christmas in Puerto Vallarta: Tips, Traditions, and Festive Fun

Dec 3

Hosting Christmas in Puerto Vallarta: Tips, Tricks, and Holiday Magic

Transforming your space into a festive wonderland is easy and fun with a little creativity and inspiration from Vallarta’s vibrant local culture.

Creative Decorating Tips

1. Decorate with Local Finds
Puerto Vallarta boasts an array of shops and markets filled with beautiful textiles and handcrafted goods. Visit fabric stores in the Romantic Zone or Mercado Municipal to find vibrant reds, greens, and golds for holiday-themed accents. Create:

Pillowcases: Sew festive covers for your throw pillows using local fabrics.
Table Runners and Placemats: Add a touch of holiday elegance to your dining table.
Wall Hangings: Use leftover fabric or artisan weavings as colorful holiday banners.

2. Tropical Trees and Plants
If you can’t find a traditional Christmas tree, why not embrace Vallarta’s tropical flair?

Decorate potted palms, banana trees, or other tropical plants with fairy lights, ribbons, and ornaments.
Make DIY ornaments using locally sourced materials like shells, dried flowers, or small piñatas.
Incorporate local crafts such as hand-painted wooden ornaments or beaded decorations made by Huichol artisans.

3. Poinsettias Galore
Known as flores de Nochebuena in Mexico, poinsettias are a classic holiday staple. Many local nurseries and markets sell these vibrant red flowers during December. Use them as centerpieces, wreath decorations, or to brighten your entryway.

4. Outdoor Spaces
With Vallarta’s warm weather, your patio or balcony can be part of the celebration. Hang string lights, lanterns, and even paper farolitos (traditional lanterns). Consider hosting an evening gathering outside, surrounded by tropical holiday cheer.

Hosting the Perfect Christmas Dinner

Christmas dinner is a time for family, friends, and good food. Whether you’re cooking at home or outsourcing the work, here’s how to create a feast to remember.

1. Plan a Memorable Menu

Mexican Holiday Classics: Include dishes like tamales, bacalao (salt cod stew), romeritos (a mole-based dish with shrimp), or pozole rojo.
Desserts: Offer buñuelos (crispy fried pastries), rosca de reyes (a traditional sweet bread), or churros con chocolate.
Drinks: Make ponche navideño (a warm fruit punch), spiked eggnog, or tropical cocktails like margaritas with a festive twist.

2. Outsource with Ease
Simplify your hosting duties by partnering with local experts:

Hire Krafting with Krissy for event planning, decorations, and catering.
Order holiday meals from renowned restaurants offering Christmas takeout.
Consider hiring a private chef for a personalized dining experience in your home or Airbnb.

3. Keep It Casual with a Potluck
Invite your guests to bring their favorite holiday dish, creating a festive meal filled with diverse flavors. This is a great way to share traditions and ease the workload.

Embracing Mexican Christmas Traditions

The holiday season in Mexico is rich with traditions, and Puerto Vallarta offers countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.

1. Posadas
Reenact Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem by participating in a posada. These processions often include singing, candles, and traditional treats like tamales and atole.

2. Midnight Mass (Misa de Gallo)
For a spiritual experience, attend Misa de Gallo on Christmas Eve. Churches across Vallarta host beautiful midnight masses, often followed by a festive meal at home.

3. Piñatas and Ponche
Host a family gathering featuring a traditional piñata filled with candy and small toys. Pair it with warm cups of ponche navideño for a true taste of the season.

4. Malecón Festivities
The Malecón comes alive during the holidays, with light displays, performers, and street vendors selling holiday treats. It’s the perfect spot for a festive evening stroll.

Where to Dine Out on Christmas Day

If cooking isn’t your style, Puerto Vallarta’s culinary scene has you covered with plenty of restaurants offering Christmas dinner options:

Whiskey Kitchen: Cozy, comforting holiday meals.
Hacienda San Angel: Elegant dining with stunning views.
El Dorado: Celebrate beachfront with a sophisticated holiday menu.
Bravos: Known for its traditional Christmas dinner offerings.
Botanical Garden: Combine a delicious meal with the beauty of nature.
No Sé Nada: Casual yet festive, perfect for groups.

Festive Activities and Entertainment

Make the most of your Christmas in Puerto Vallarta with these activities:

Beach Picnics: Gather friends and family for a sunset picnic with holiday drinks and snacks.
Holiday Markets: Explore local markets for handcrafted gifts, decorations, and traditional foods.
Boat Tours: Book a holiday-themed boat tour to see the Bay of Banderas lit up with Christmas lights.
Horseback Riding with Hector: Take a festive ride on the beach or through the mountains, enjoying Vallarta’s natural beauty.
Live Music and Events: Check local event listings for holiday concerts, plays, or community gatherings.

Conclusion: A Christmas to Treasure

Whether you’re decorating a cozy Airbnb or hosting an unforgettable dinner for loved ones, Christmas in Puerto Vallarta offers endless opportunities for joy and connection. With tropical touches, local traditions, and plenty of ways to simplify the season, you can create a holiday that’s as magical as it is stress-free.

Krissy T