Organizers of this year’s Vallarta Pride festival – the third year Puerto Vallarta has hosted the event – are planning to accommodate close to 10,000 people.
Running from May 17 to 25, the festival’s theme is “A Celebration of Unity,” highlighting diversity, community and social responsibility.
Andrew Christian, founder and head designer of his own label, will bring four fashion models from the United States for special appearances during the festival. The Andrew Christian label produces internationally renowned underwear, swim wear and sportswear lines for men and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.
Cultural activities include a week-long art exhibition showcasing local, national and international artists at Galeria Omar Alonso, (Leona Vicario 249) in el Centro. The Puerto Vallarta Men’s Chorus has two concerts planned for the week and there is an outdoor Movie Picnic at Puerto de Luna (Francisco Medina Ascencio 2500) in the Hotel Zone.
A same-sex commitment ceremony will take place at Casa Cupula (Callejon de la Igualdad 129) in Amapas on Wednesday, May 20. A public notary will be on hand to certify the union as a common-law marriage. This symbolic LGBT wedding ceremony is open to all couples interested in committing or renewing their vows. This ceremony also welcomes friends and family.
The Pulpito Drag Derby is scheduled for May 21 and takes fun to new heights. You have a chance to bet on your favorite Drag Queen who will be running in high heels on the cobblestones and stairs on Calle Pulpito in Zona Romantica. This is also a fund-raiser for the Amapas Neighborhood Association and Vallarta’s LGBT Community Center.
One of the main events is the 2015 Vallarta Pride Parade. Thousands line the streets to check out this festive and colorful display of diversity. It takes place on Saturday, May 23, starting at 5 p.m. at the Sheraton Hotel across from the Sports Stadium and ends on Olas Altas. After the parade, head over to Lazaro Cardenas Park for food, fun, and music until 11 p.m.
Vallarta Pride events include:
Sunday, May 17: International March Against Homophobia, 6 p.m.
Monday, May 18: Art Exhibition at Galeria Omar Alonso, 6 p.m. PV Men’s Chorus at Act II Entertainment, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, May 19: International Memorial Candlelight March, 8 p.m. International Film Festival Screening, 9 p.m.
Wednesday, May 20: Sunset Commitment Ceremony at Casa Cupula, 6 p.m.
Thursday, May 21: Pulpito Drag Derby, 5 p.m. Andrew Christian Cocktail Party, 6 p.m.
Friday, May 22: Andrew Christian Wet and Wild Gay Cruise, 11 a.m. Andrew Christian Fashion Show, 7:30 p.m. Big Boo’s Birthday Party Bash, 9 p.m. Circa De Cupula Warm Up Party, 9 p.m.
Saturday, May 23: Pride Parade, 5 p.m. Block Party at Lazaro Cardenas Park, 6 p.m.
Sunday, May 24: Brunch to meet Andrew Christian models, 10 a.m. Closing Party, 11 a.m.
Visit www.vallartapride.com for more details.