Puerto Vallarta in March 2026: Gastronomy, Music, and Marine Life

March 2026 in Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant period characterized by a rich blend of gourmet food festivals, inclusive musical celebrations, and peak wildlife viewing opportunities. As the city transitions into the peak spring season, its coastal landscape serves as a premier stage for both international travelers and locals seeking cultural immersion and seaside adventure.

Gastronomic Highlights

The month kicks off with a focus on world-class flavors and coastal cuisine.

• Vinoma Fest 2026: From March 5 to 7, this festival returns to unite world-class wines with gourmet cuisine in a three-day seaside celebration. Headquartered at Puerto Mágico, the event features over 300 wine labels from renowned wineries and immersive sensory experiences.
• Michelada Festival: Scheduled for March 14 and 15 at the Puerto Mágico Maritime Terminal, this third annual event celebrates the iconic beer cocktail. The festival features over 30 exhibitors, regional food, live music, and DJs, with free entry for attendees.
• Festival de Raicilla Damajuana: This annual event is also scheduled for March 13 to 15, dedicated specifically to the promotion of Raicilla culture and traditional local spirits.

Music and Cultural Festivals

The city hosts several major festivals throughout the month, ranging from niche music genres to inclusive pride celebrations.

• Fairyland Music Festival: Held from March 12 to 15 at Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Sushi in the Romantic Zone, this is the second annual queer house music festival. It offers four days of international DJs and beach vibes in Mexico’s leading gay destination.
• Spring Jazz Festival: Running from March 12 to 22, this festival celebrates three decades of performances, bringing world-class jazz to the shores of Los Muertos Beach.

Marine Life and Recreation

March falls within the peak season for some of the region’s most iconic marine wildlife encounters and competitive sporting events.

• Whale Watching: March is a peak month for spotting Humpback Whales in Banderas Bay. Visitors can observe these majestic mammals breaching and performing acrobatics from boat tours or directly from the shore. The official season typically concludes around March 23.
• Bahía de Banderas International Regatta: From March 17 to 21, the Riviera Nayarit hosts this competitive sailing event. It draws cruisers and racing boats from across the globe to the tropical waters surrounding the bay.
• UTMB World Series: Running from March 5 to 8, the city serves as a hub for the Puerto Vallarta México by UTMB trail running events, with various distances including a 95KM race starting in nearby Mascota.

Navigational Context

Travelers should prepare for a general increase in domestic travel activity as the month transitions toward the start of Semana Santa on March 29. For those looking to extend their musical journey, the “Love the 90’s Festival” takes place in nearby Guadalajara on March 21, following its run in Mexico City.