Last updated: 7:00 PM ET, Mon October 19, 2026
Mexico’s dynamic Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for relaxing beach vacations, cultural experiences, gastronomy, outdoor adventure, and more. But PV travelers in the know often come for the city’s Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) festivities, which run from October 31 through November 2 this year. There are also some additional cultural displays which extend about two weeks before and after the central days.
While traditional Day of the Dead celebrations involve thousands of candles, ornately decorated altars, and marigolds, this year’s PV activities will be taken to the next level with ALMA by Rhythms of the Night. This show will weave the important ancient heritage of the holiday with visual effects, contemporary dance, and music.
Puerto Vallarta's Day of the Dead celebrations.
ALMA by Rhythms of the Night is set on the secluded Las Caletas Beach, which is situated south of Puerto Vallarta and accessible exclusively by boat. The area also has a famous past, including being the home of legendary director John Huston after he filmed The Night of the Iguana in the region. The open-air environment here is one which few other can compare to, set between the rainforest and the crashing waves, not to mention under the starry skies, pierced by the Milky Way.
Attending is an all-encompassing evening excursion. Guests are treated to a scenic sunset cruise before landing at the beach for an oceanfront buffet dinner (complete with seasonal antojitosmexicano). Afterwards is the live performance that bridges the realms of the living and spiritual worlds, a key component of Day of the Dead.
Puerto Vallarta's Day of the Dead celebrations.
ALMA was conceived by Mukhtar Mukhtar, and his creative vision here centers on a spiritual guide who is on a mission to restore harmony between the visible and invisible words. The show includes rituals, challenges, and dancing, along with aerial acrobatics and intricate choreography. The natural landscape and native flora are thoroughly integrated into the spectacle. Dynamic lighting is used to add drama to different portions of the evening.
ALMA by Rhythms of the Night’s Día de Muertos programs run from October 26 to November 7, with three levels, Classic ($90 per person), VIP ($118 per person), and Premier ($160 per person). Higher levels add perks such as prime seating and priority boarding. This journey is truly family friendly, and suitable for all ages, allowing couples or families a meaningful connection to the local heritage. Seats can be reserved on the official Vallarta Adventures website.
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