El Pitillal, Puerto Vallarta’s largest district, is preparing for a full month of festivities that blend Mexico’s patriotic holidays with the traditional patronal celebrations of San Miguel Arcángel. The calendar stretches from late August through September, filling the central plaza with parades, concerts, coronations, religious rites, and community events.
The program was announced by local authorities, parish leaders, and community organizers, who invited residents from across Vallarta and neighboring communities to take part. The festivities begin August 31 with a mojiganga parade and the presentation of candidates for the Reina de Fiestas Patrias crown.
By mid-September, the celebrations peak with civic ceremonies, concerts, and Independence Day traditions. The month closes with the novenario to San Miguel and the patronal feast day on September 29, marked by processions, mass, fireworks, and a closing festival.
Highlights of the program
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Aug 31: Mojiganga parade and first presentation of candidates for the Fiestas Patrias crown
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Sept 7: Second candidate showcase, with runway and cultural knowledge segments
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Sept 12: Diversity celebration and the Reina Gay de las Fiestas Patrias contest
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Sept 13: Coronation of the Reina de Fiestas Patrias and her princesses
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Sept 14: Concert featuring 1990s DJs
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Sept 15–17: Torch parade, Grito de Independencia, fireworks, Banda Perla Negra, civic parade, lucha libre, and a community dance
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Sept 21–29: Novenario to San Miguel Arcángel with pilgrimages, daily masses, and community breakfasts
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Sept 29: Patronal feast day with processions, bishop-led mass, arrival of the San Miguel torch, fireworks, and a closing festival featuring mariachi, folkloric ballet, clowns, and local artists
Organizers emphasized that the Pitillal celebrations are a community tradition open to all. Families, parish groups, and neighbors from across Puerto Vallarta are expected to gather in the plaza throughout the month to honor both national pride and local faith.