Is Cinco de Mayo celebrated in Puerto Vallarta?

Cinco de Mayo is recognized in Puerto Vallarta, but it’s not celebrated with the same intensity as in the U.S. or in the Mexican state of Puebla, where the holiday originated.

In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when the Mexican army defeated French forces. It’s a more regional celebration in Puebla itself, rather than a nationwide holiday. So, in Puerto Vallarta, you won’t see massive parades or government closures.

However, because Puerto Vallarta is a tourist destination with a lot of American visitors and expats, you will find themed events at bars, restaurants, and resorts—often with live music, margarita specials, and general festive vibes aimed at visitors who associate Cinco de Mayo with Mexican culture more broadly.