Pyrotechnics, A Custom With Side Effects.

In Puerto Vallarta, as in many other regions of Mexico, the use of cuetes and pyrotechnics during the Christmas season is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions. Las Posadas (December 16 to 24) commemorate the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary seeking an inn before the birth of Jesus, the cuetes and fireworks are used to brighten the processions, call the faithful and honor the saints, they also symbolize the joy for the birth of Christ, filling the sky with festive lights and sounds.

On the night of December 31, fireworks represent the farewell to the old year and the welcoming of the new year. The roar is believed to ward off evil spirits and purify the atmosphere to attract good luck and prosperity. The lights in the sky symbolize hope and positive wishes for the new cycle.

Cuetes are part of traditional Mexican festivities, from patron saint celebrations to weddings and baptisms. In December, their use reflects the communal joy and the need to celebrate big. In Puerto Vallarta, where the festivities have a tropical touch, fireworks on the beach create an unforgettable spectacle.Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination in December, and public festivities often include pyrotechnics to attract visitors. Restaurants, hotels and clubs organize fireworks shows in Banderas Bay, adding magic to the celebrations.

However, it is very important to think about the little animals vulnerable to the noise of the cuetes and pyrotechnics in Puerto Vallarta because their welfare can be seriously affected.
Before the arrival of the Spaniards, the indigenous peoples already used fire and sound in ceremonies to honor their gods. This practice evolved with religious syncretism, adapting to Christian festivities.

Although it is a beloved tradition, nowadays there is also more talk about the environmental impact due to smoke and residues, personal safety due to accidents with pyrotechnics and stress on pets and wild animals.

The use of cuetes and pyrotechnics in Puerto Vallarta during December combines religious, cultural and tourist roots to express joy and hope. However, in recent years, some communities have opted for more sustainable alternatives, such as light shows and drones.

Dogs and cats have a much more acute sense of hearing than humans, which makes them perceive loud sounds as frightening and even painful. The roar of the cuetes causes:

○ Tachycardia and tremors.

○ Attempts to escape, which can lead to accidents or getting lost.

○ Fear paralysis or panic aggressive behaviors.

Extreme fear can lead to accidents such as bumping, falling or getting stuck in dangerous places. In some cases, severe stress can cause cardiac arrest in more sensitive or sick animals.

Puerto Vallarta is an area rich in biodiversity, with birds, iguanas, bats and other animals living near beaches, mountains and mangroves. Sudden noises alter their feeding, resting and migration habits. Many animals become disoriented and may:

○ Abandon their nests.

○ Suffer fatal collisions while fleeing.

○ Expose themselves to predators by becoming vulnerable.

Banderas Bay is home to species such as turtles, dolphins and whales (in migration season). Loud sounds near the water travel faster and can alter the communication and navigation of these species.

Some animals may develop chronic phobias to noise, affecting their long-term behavior, and birds may stop nesting in certain areas, affecting the local ecological balance.

More and more people are demanding measures to protect animals during the holidays. In several parts of Mexico, partial bans or regulation of the use of pyrotechnics have been implemented due to their environmental and animal impact. In Puerto Vallarta, some groups and associations such as SPCA de PV and AngeliCAT promote awareness and animal protection campaigns.

Thinking about vulnerable animals before using fireworks in Puerto Vallarta is a matter of empathy, respect and environmental responsibility. With small changes, it is possible to maintain festive traditions without compromising animal welfare.