Charrería In Puerto Vallarta.

Charrería has deep roots in Mexico and is considered the national sport par excellence, with a tradition that dates back to colonial times. Although Puerto Vallarta is best known for its beach and tourist atmosphere, it also has an important connection to this tradition.

Puerto Vallarta, being in the state of Jalisco, shares the cultural heritage of charrería that is strong throughout the region. Jalisco is the cradle of this tradition, and its impact also reached Puerto Vallarta through the charros and ranchers who settled in the area.

During colonial times, cattle ranches in western Mexico were the key points for the development of charrería. The practice arose as a necessity to perform field tasks such as herding cattle, branding animals, and taming horses. Over time, these skills became competitive displays.

In Puerto Vallarta, charrería began to gain relevance in the mid-twentieth century, when ranches and haciendas near the municipality adopted the traditions of the charros. As tourism grew, this tradition became a cultural attraction for visitors.
Some lienzos charros in or near Puerto Vallarta host events and tournaments. These spaces are not only a place for competition, but also for family gatherings and preservation of tradition.

Charrería also has an important place in local festivities. During Puerto Vallarta's patron saint festivities (in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe in December), it is common to see parades with charros and escaramuzas that show their skill and cultural pride.

Today, escaramuzas (female teams that perform tricks on horseback) are an important part of charrería in Vallarta. They represent one of the most beautiful expressions of this tradition.

Since 2016, charrería has been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, which reinforces the importance of keeping this practice alive in places like Puerto Vallarta.

Charrería in Puerto Vallarta is experiencing a moment of remarkable activity and revitalization.

We invite you to the 2025 Vallarta International Charro Championship, this prestigious event is taking place from January 30 to February 2 at the Lienzo Charro Miguel "Prieto" Ibarría. It brings together 30 teams from Mexico and the United States, in addition to the participation of 10 escaramuza groups. Since December 15, 2024, a school dedicated to instructing children and young people between 8 and 18 years old in the arts of charrería has been operating at the Lienzo Charro Miguel Prieto Ibarría. Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays in the evening.

Under the presidency of Alfonso Bernal Romero, this union has revitalized the practice of charrería in the region, organizing championships and encouraging the participation of various local associations.

These initiatives and events reflect Puerto Vallarta's commitment to the preservation and promotion of charrería, ensuring that this Mexican tradition remains alive and vibrant in the local community.