Puerto Vallarta isn’t just a beach lover’s dream—it’s also a foodie’s paradise.
From sizzling seafood to world-class gourmet events, the city’s food festivals are flavorful, fun, and 100% unmissable.
If you’re planning your next visit, mark your calendar for these top culinary experiences.
Key Takeaways
-
Puerto Vallarta hosts some of the best food festivals in Mexico.
-
Events range from taco tastings to upscale gourmet weeks.
-
Most festivals feature local chefs, international cuisine, and vibrant street food scenes.
-
They’re a great way to explore local culture beyond the beaches.
-
Many food festivals take place in November, April, and summer months.
1. Festival Gourmet International
When: November
Where: Multiple restaurants across Puerto Vallarta
This is the big one.
The Festival Gourmet International has been running for over 25 years. It features top chefs from around the world collaborating with local restaurants for exclusive tasting menus, culinary demos, and wine pairings.
It’s luxury dining with a coastal flair—perfect for foodies who crave elegance with a side of ocean breeze.
Pro tip: Book your table early. These events fill up fast.
2. Taco Festival (Festival del Taco)
When: Varies (Usually in April or May)
Where: Parque Lazaro Cardenas or Marina Vallarta
What’s a trip to Mexico without tacos?
Puerto Vallarta’s Taco Festival celebrates this beloved dish in all its forms—from traditional al pastor to fusion-style creations topped with seafood or exotic salsas.
Expect live music, beer stands, and enough salsa to make your eyes water (in a good way).
Hot tip: Come hungry. Leave with a full stomach and a happy heart.
3. Restaurant Week
When: Mid-May to early June
Where: Participating restaurants in PV
Think of this as Puerto Vallarta’s version of “dine out week.”
Restaurant Week offers fixed-price menus at top restaurants across the city. You’ll get to sample high-end dishes at a fraction of the usual cost.
Menus typically include three courses—appetizer, main, and dessert—with options for every taste.
Perfect for vacationers looking to experience fine dining without breaking the bank.
4. Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica
When: October
Where: Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta
A major event that blends high-end gastronomy, mixology, and education, this festival includes cooking classes, wine tastings, and culinary workshops.
Chefs and sommeliers from around the world come to showcase their skills. It’s part show, part learning experience, and all delicious.
Even if you’re not a pro chef, you’ll leave inspired.
Final Thoughts
The city’s vibrant food culture, showcased in these unmissable festivals, is just one reason why expats and investors are flocking here.
Whether you’re a snowbird, digital nomad, or food-loving retiree, these events offer a delicious glimpse into the everyday lifestyle you could enjoy year-round.
Puerto Vallarta real estate offers something for every lifestyle and budget—from beachfront properties in the Romantic Zone to modern condos in Marina Vallarta.
So if the flavors hook you, maybe it’s time to start exploring property options and make Puerto Vallarta your home base.
Delicious living isn’t just a vacation dream here—it’s everyday reality.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit for food festivals?
November and spring months (April–June) are packed with major events like Festival Gourmet International and Restaurant Week.
Do I need to buy tickets for food festivals?
Some events are free, like street fairs and seafood festivals.
For gourmet events, reservations or tickets are usually required.
Are food festivals family-friendly?
Yes! Most have live music, kid-friendly dishes, and casual vibes—especially taco and seafood festivals.