The confetti has settled on the Malecón, the last of the fireworks have drifted over Banderas Bay, and Puerto Vallarta officially wakes up to a new chapter: 2026.
Whether you greeted the New Year dancing at the Olas Altas street party, watching the drone show from a rooftop in the Romantic Zone, or enjoying a quiet moment on your terrace, the first day of the year in Vallarta offers a unique blend of recovery, celebration, and new beginnings.
Here is what is happening around town today, Thursday, January 1, 2026.
The Morning Vibe: Cloudy but Warm
If you are heading out for a recovery breakfast or an early stroll, expect a gentle start to the year. The forecast for today calls for cloudy skies with temperatures hovering between a comfortable 19°C (66°F) in the morning and reaching a high of 27°C (81°F) by the afternoon. It is perfect weather for a walk without the intense midday heat—perhaps a stroll to catch the final day of the “Sea of Gifts” Christmas Festival along the boardwalk.
Recovery & Dining: The "Recalentado" Tradition
For many in Mexico, today is about the recalentado (reheating leftovers) or finding a cure for the previous night's festivities.
Traditional Cure: If you want to do as the locals do, seek out a steaming bowl of Menudo or Birria at your favorite local fonda to bring you back to life.
Frida's Kitchen Buffet: For those looking for a hearty feast without the cooking, Frida's Bar & Restaurant in the Romantic Zone (Francisco I. Madero 418) is hosting an All-You-Can-Eat Holiday Buffet today. It features glazed ham, turkey, and all the fixings—ideal if you missed a traditional dinner last night in favor of the fiesta.
Events Today: Music & Shows
The city doesn't sleep for long. If you are ready to keep the energy going, there is plenty on the calendar for January 1st:
2:00 PM | Bial Hclap at Casitas Maraika: For a chill beach vibe, head south. Casitas Maraika is hosting Bial Hclap for an afternoon session. It is a great way to enjoy the ocean breeze with some fresh beats.
5:00 PM | Sunset Cruise: If you want to start the year on the water, the Gay Luxury Sunset Cruise aboard the Escándalo departs at 5:00 PM.
7:00 PM | The Palm Cabaret: The entertainment scene is in full swing tonight. You can catch Miss Conception’s "Make America Gay Again" show at 7:00 PM, followed later in the evening by tributes to Elton John and Beyoncé.
Final Day of "Sea of Gifts": Today is the announced final day for the citywide holiday festival. If you haven't taken a photo with the giant displays along the Malecón, this is your last chance before they are packed away until next December.
Nature's Show: The First Sunset
One of the most wholesome events planned for today is the "First Sunset" at Palmares Beach. Locals and visitors are encouraged to gather at this Blue Flag certified beach on the south shore to watch the sun dip below the horizon for the first time in 2026. It is a peaceful, community-centered way to set your intentions for the year ahead.
A Note to Our Readers
As we look forward to the high season continuing through Easter, we at Vallarta Today want to wish all our readers—both residents and visitors—a prosperous, healthy, and adventure-filled 2026.
Happy New Year, Puerto Vallarta!
Do you have an event or story for 2026? Contact our editorial team to share your news.
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