My absolute favorite time of the year in Puerto Vallarta is the Guadalupe Processions. To judge from the onlookers, most Vallartans share my feelings, even if not religious. For me this is by far the most interesting cultural event that we have in our city. For twelve days, from December 1st to 12th, the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe (the church downtown with the crown) in the center of Puerto Vallarta receives procession after procession from around the city and surrounding communities, each accompanied by a float bearing a young woman representing the Virgin of Guadalupe, a green shroud bedecked with golden stars covering her head. These processions continue from afternoon until midnight or later every day. There are literally hundreds during the twelve days.
This event does create a bit of havoc with downtown traffic. But from Rivera Cuale Condominiums, enjoying the processions is hassle free. 
A short walk into town, 10 minutes max, and you are at the Church; no traffic jams, no parking problems. Enjoy the floats, take photos, taste the traditional foods in the square, and then have a short, easy walk back home.
Here is a brief history of the visitation of the Virgin:
The appearance of Our Lady of Guadalupe to the Aztec Juan Diego in December of 1531 generated the conversion to Catholicism of Mexico, Central and South America. Indeed, the Blessed Virgin Mary entered the very life stream of Central America and became an inextricable part of Mexican life and a central figure to the history of Mexico itself. To this date, the most important religious celebration in Mexico and CentralAmerica is December 12th, the feast-day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Her appearance in the center of the American continents has contributed to the Virgin of Guadalupe being given the title “Mother of the Americas.”
To read a complete and wonderful account of the ‘miracle’ of the five visions, follow this link.
The largest of these processions in Mexico takes place in Mexico City at the cathedral on the site where Juan Diego saw his visions. The tradition is repeated in countless towns in Latin America where Guadalupe is the patron saint.
In Puerto Vallarta, practically every colonia (neighborhood), business, hotel, union, organization or association organizes its own float to march to the beautifully decorated church, proudly bearing a banner with the group name, carrying candles and chanting the familiar Guadalupana refrain. As each procession arrives, the Virgin is lifted off the float and the whole group enters the church to be blessed by the priest. Bells ring joyously each time a procession arrives.
There is a wonderful carnival like atmosphere in the main square in front of the church. Countless stands serve delicious tacos, pozoles, strawberries or bananas with whipped cream and traditional seasonal treats. In addition you will find local handicrafts and Guadalupe memorabilia. All in all, this is an unforgettable experience.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this festival is the cross cultural mix of the pagan influence with the religious. Many of the marchers are outfitted in Pre-Hispanic regalia, adorned with feather headdresses and rattles on their ankles, carrying drums or feather shields. It is truly something to see.
The Guadalupe Processions are only one example of why I choose to live downtown. Really, from Rivera Cuale you can literally step out the front door and within mere minutes witness this and so many other events in the downtown area. At Rivera Cuale, you live the true Vallarta lifestyle, and authentic Mexican culture is at your doorstep!
Article and Photos by Estelle Eisen
I am a 20 year resident of Puerto Vallarta, and have been selling new condo properties here for six years. I was previously a licensed realtor in Washington, DC and Aspen, Colo. for many years. I am here to assist you in any way, and to answer any questions you may have on purchasing your new home at Rivera Cuale. Please contact me at estelle@riveracuale.com or 011-52-322-145-3727.