Luma Living
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Culture
Pre-Columbian mystical traditions, Spanish mores, Catholicism and contemporary cultures from around the world blend and blur to make make Puerto Vallarta one of Mexico's most dynamic and vibrant cities. The creative spirit flourishes and there is always something to celebrate.
Art
With the exception of Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta has more significant galleries than anywhere else in Mexico. Well-known and sought-after artists and artisans from around the world fall in love with Vallarta's natural beauty and charm. Sculpture, blown glass, painting, ceramics, jewelry, folk art and fashion all flourish here.
Whether you're into the colorfully glazed Talavara pottery, traditional Huichol masks, funky hand-carved alebrijes, traditional Oaxacan "black" pottery, the Mexican masters like Rivera and Orozco, or contemporary sculpture and painting, you will find it in the many galleries of Puerto Vallarta.
Feel inspired.
Every Monday Vallarta's leading artists open the doors to their studios to the public and invite them to watch them work. A guided tour provides details about the area, a history of Mexican art and an overview of the contemporary scene.
Visit The Pueblito del Sol Cultural Center to see the up and coming new artists before they become famous.
Cuisine
You could live out the rest of your days in Puerto Vallarta and never eat the same dish twice.
It's no wonder that Puerto Vallarta is a city filled with diverse culinary experiences. Abundant fresh fruits, vegetables and seafood draw chefs from around the world, inspired by the local flavors, textures and aromas.
Savor the cream of prawn and pumpkin soup or roast duck with soy and honey in the fantasy-like setting of Café Artistes. Indulge your sushi habit among the rock gardens and waterfalls of Kamakura. Or discover your favorite little taco stand and enjoy the local favorites, including ceviche that is simply not to be missed. Finish your evening with a sampling of one of the hundreds of handcrafted tequilas made in Jalisco.
Feel inspired.
Many of the local chefs and restaurants offer cooking classes.
In November, take part in The Puerto Vallarta Gourmet Festival. Culinary exhibits, wine tastings and internationally renowned guest chefs. (www.festivalgourmet.com)
Festivals
FEBRUARY
Vallarta Wine Festival, February 22 – 28th
MARCH/APRIL
Mexican Chocolate, Coffee and Vanilla Festival, March 13
Bandaras Bay International Regatta, March 16 - 20
Holy Week
Palm Sunday, March 28, Good Friday, April 2, Easter Sunday, April 4
MAY
Mother’s Day, May 9th
Puerto Vallarta International Sports Classic, May 7 - 9th
Vallarta Lifestyles Restaurant Week, May 15 – 31