From adrenaline-filled competition to community creativity, culinary celebration and commemorative cataloging, the Bay of Banderas is alive with a string of must-see events in the month of May. Before the month runs out, get out there and see photos documenting PV’s history, sample the region’s most popular high-end restaurants at reduced prices, build sandcastles for a good cause and more!
Restaurant Week Puerto Vallarta 2026 in full swing
Restaurant Week Puerto Vallarta 2026 has officially begun and will continue through June 10, transforming the Bay of Banderas region for more than three weeks into a showcase of culinary talent.
The annual festival features participating restaurants across Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit that offer three-course menus at fixed prices, giving area diners the opportunity to experience some of the region’s top cuisine at affordable prices.
Although traditionally called “Restaurant Week,” the event has evolved into an extended gastronomic celebration. More than 50 restaurants will participate in the 2026 edition, with dishes ranging from contemporary Mexican cuisine and fresh seafood to international fine dining experiences.
Additional information, participating restaurants, and special menus can be found at Restaurant Week Puerto Vallarta.
When: May 15–June 10
Where: At more than 50 restaurants across Puerto Vallarta and the Riveria Nayarit
Cost: Variable, depending on the restaurant
International kitesurfing festival begins May 22
From May 22–24, Bucerías will become the center of international kitesurfing as the 2026 Festival del Viento (Wind Festival) takes to the shores of Banderas Bay.
Athletes from across Mexico and around the world are expected to gather for three days of competition, entertainment and beachside celebration in one of the country’s most recognized wind sports destinations.
Freestyle events will highlight aerial tricks and technical creativity, while Big Air contests focus on height and precision. Visitors can also watch downwind races, slalom competitions, and foil regattas, where participants demonstrate speed, balance and endurance across open water.
In addition to the sporting events, the festival grounds will offer food vendors, live music, exhibitions and activities designed for families and visitors of all ages.
When: May 22–24
Where: On Bucerías’ beaches, with events centered at the Suites Costa Dorada in Nuevo Nayarit.
Cost: Free admission to competitions for spectators. Entry to all related musical events on Saturday and Sunday: 500 pesos
Raise funds for teachers while building sandcastles at Mango’s Beach Club
The Volcanes Community School will host its first annual Sandcastle Competition on May 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mango’s Beach Club, bringing together families, students and community members for a day of creativity and fundraising in support of the school’s teachers’ fund.
Organizers say every contribution will directly support the educators who work to provide students with a safe, encouraging and enriching learning environment.
Throughout the event, participants will design and build imaginative sandcastles along the beach while enjoying a festive community atmosphere. In preparation, architect Chava Camberos recently spoke with the schoolchildren about structures and the importance of creating strong foundations and supports to secure their sand creations.
The event is open to the public and will include activities for all ages, encouraging residents and visitors alike to take part in a meaningful community initiative.
When: May 29, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: Mango’s Beach Club
Cost: Free
Puerto Vallarta celebrates its history with exhibition at City Hall
As part of its anniversary celebrations, Puerto Vallarta will be putting on “Puerto: Archive and Memory,” an exhibit of historical photos and ephemera dedicated to preserving and sharing the city’s historic legacy.
Scheduled for May 29 at City Hall, the gathering will showcase a valuable collection of previously unpublished photographs, antique maps, official documents and historical records that reveal how the coastal destination evolved from a small fishing community into one of Mexico’s most recognized tourist cities.
The event forms part of the commemorations marking the municipality’s 108th anniversary and the city’s 58th anniversary as an officially recognized urban center. It is part of a series of events going on that weekend on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Historians, archivists and cultural researchers will offer lectures and presentations designed to connect residents and visitors with the stories, traditions and milestones that shaped Puerto Vallarta’s identity through the decades.
For more information, visit the Puerto Vallarta Government Facebook page, or check this list of all the official anniversary events going on over the weekend.
When: May 29
Where: Puerto Vallarta City Hall
Cost: Free
Charlotte Smith is a writer and journalist based in Mexico. Her work focuses on travel, politics, and community. You can follow along with her travel stories at www.salsaandserendipity.com.
