Velas Resorts Announces Grand Day of the Dead Celebrations for 2023

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (October 2, 2023) – For Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities this year, Velas Resorts in Mexico will offer authentic celebrations ranging from catrina parades and nighttime cultural tours of Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon, to culinary traditions and art and handicraft exhibits. Celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, Día de Los Muertos is a deeply cherished Mexican holiday honoring the memories of loved ones who have passed. Traditionally marked by vibrant food, drinks, and ofrendas (elaborate altars), the living artfully prepare their loved one’s gravesites in hopes of one day reuniting.

On November 2nd, Velas Vallarta springs to life with a parade featuring the iconic Mexican Catrinas. The guided experience will showcase eight captivating sculptures representing distinct characters and stages of Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant history. Throughout the experience, guests will have the opportunity to engage with their knowledgeable guides who will explain the origins and cultural significance of the cherished traditions.

From November 2-3, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit will host the first annual Mexology Fest, a spirited fusion of Mexico’s rich Día de los Muertos traditions and innovative mixology. Included in the resort’s nightly rate, attendees will immerse themselves in two days of workshops, tastings, and spirited evenings led by world-class mixologists from Mexico and the United States. Highlights here include tequila craftsmanship with a Master Distiller, Painting & Pairing sessions with plant-based inks and Raicilla, and a night time takeover from Mexico City’s acclaimed Licoreria Limantour, consecutively named The Best Bar in North America.

In Baja California Sur, Grand Velas Los Cabos will offer a Day of the Dead-inspired floating tray in the adults only Serenity Pool adorned with vibrant marigolds. Additionally, an elevated turn-down service featuring culinary Day of the Dead amenities and a poolside Catrina parade accompanied by talented musicians and dancers are on tap for guests. To complete the experience, guests can opt for “Catrina Makeup” for a festive dinner featuring authentic Mexican cuisine.

At sister property Mar del Cabo, the centerpiece of the celebration is a three-course themed dinner spotlighting the best of traditional Mexican cuisine. In the lobby, a welcoming “Mezcalina” drink with a black salt garnish sets the tone accompanied by live soloist music, canapes, and signature Jarritos shots enhance the celebration.

Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta is offering a unique Day of the Dead experience featuring a 3-hour nighttime tour where guests can explore the spirited Malecon promenade and witness special shrine displays, art exhibits, and festivities. A highlight here is a 75 ft tall (almost 7 stories) giant catrina designed by Puerto Vallarta artist Alondra Muca resurrected for the holiday. Back at the hotel, guests at Casa Velas will receive a sugar skull amenity in their suites accompanied by a story to explain the significance of the celebration.

At Grand Velas Riviera Maya, kids aged four through twelve stay for free, while teens aged 13-15 enjoy a 50% discount on all-inclusive accommodations. Another highlight for families and children at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, and its sister properties in Los Cabos and Riviera Nayarit, is the chance to learn about traditional Mexican crafts such as Alebrijes, or Mexican folk art sculptures. Typically made of cardboard, wood, or clay, these historical figurines have inspired creativity from around the world. In fact, alebrijes are depicted as “spirit animals” in the Disney movie, Coco. During the workshop, children have the opportunity to craft their own Alebrije with the resorts’ exclusive Alebrijes painting class in its Kids’ Club.

At all of the resorts, guests can savor pan de muerto and other traditional food items for the holiday and traditional altars that stand as a testament to the event’s cultural significance.

Rates start at $295 USD at Velas Vallarta, $347 USD at Casa Velas, $488 USD at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, $617 USD at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, and $640 USD at Grand Velas Los Cabos. Rates are per adult per night based on double occupancy. All-inclusive rates include luxury suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity and more. Mar del Cabo European Plan rates start at $256 USD per night. Activities are subject to change based on availability and vary based on the resort. For reservations or more information, call 1-888-407-4869, email reservations@velasresorts.com or visit https://www.velasresorts.com.