After the Pride parade a few thousand people -- 3,000, according to organizers -- gathered to watch performances, enjoy food and drinks and dance the night away.
The show continued well into the night however once it got dark we couldn't see anything and had to leave -- and we were front row. Apparently they didn't think to have stage lighting for an evening show.
FASHIONABLY... LATE
It was scheduled for 5:30 p.m. but the rooftop Pride fashion show started just before 7 p.m. And with the notion of skin being shown, people stuck around.
A collection of local LGBTQ Mexican fashion designers and retail outlets featured their creations as the sunset on PV. Most of the commentary was in Spanish so I really didn't get a full grasp of what was being said. But, at a fashion show, most of the fun is seeing the outfits.
STROLLING THE MALECON
From the moment I stepped onto the Malecón, I was swept away by the lively atmosphere. The air buzzed with the sounds of mariachi music, the tantalizing aroma of street food, and the excited chatter of locals and tourists alike. It's a place where the city comes alive, a true melting pot of cultures and experiences.
My exploration began with the impressive collection of sculptures that line the walkway. These aren't your run-of-the-mill statues; they're whimsical, thought-provoking, and often interactive. I spent a good hour admiring the work of renowned artists like Sergio Bustamante and Javier Ramírez Coral, snapping photos and letting my imagination run wild. It’s like an open-air art gallery, offering a fantastic introduction to the artistic spirit of Puerto Vallarta.
As the afternoon progressed, I found myself drawn to the performances that unfolded along the boardwalk. From traditional folkloric dances to captivating sand artists creating ephemeral masterpieces, there was always something to catch my eye.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues of orange and pink, the Malecón transformed once again. The restaurants and bars lining the waterfront came alive with twinkling lights and the sounds of live music.
Walking the Malecón is more than just a stroll; it's an immersion into the heart and soul of Puerto Vallarta. It’s a vibrant tapestry of art, culture, and culinary delights, woven together by the warmth of the Mexican people. Believe me, a day spent exploring this iconic boardwalk is a day well spent – and a memory you’ll cherish long after you’ve left. So, pack your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and prepare to be captivated by the magic of the Malecón!