Where and How to Host Your Posada in the Riviera Nayarit

Every December, Mexico comes alive with the festive spirit of posadas, traditional celebrations that bring communities together in the days leading up to Christmas. Rooted in a blend of Spanish and indigenous traditions, posadas re-enact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus. These gatherings start with participants forming two groups: one outside, symbolizing Mary and Joseph, and one inside, representing innkeepers. Together, they sing the litany de las posadas, going back and forth until the holy couple is finally “welcomed” inside. This symbolic act gives way to joyful festivities featuring delicious hot foods, sweet treats, vibrant music, piñatas, and a sense of togetherness that perfectly captures the warmth of the season. In the charming destination of the Riviera Nayarit, posadas are celebrated with unique local flair, making them a must-experience tradition for anyone visiting during the holiday season. 

The History of Posadas in Mexico 

The name “posada” is Spanish for “lodging” or “inn”, honoring the Christmas story of Mary and Joseph on their journey to Bethlehem, when they were searching for an inn where Mary could give birth to the baby Jesus.  

Posadas began as a way for Spaniards to teach native Mexican people about Christmas; they take place over nine nights each year, from December 16 to December 24. The posadas originated as nine Catholic masses in the mid-16th century, when Friar Diego de Soria near Mexico City got permission from the Pope to host extra masses during the Christmas season. Today, the tradition of posadas has spread to other countries throughout Latin America. 

Where Can I Host a Posada? 

Mexican posadas are now considered a heartwarming tradition for family, friends, and even coworkers. These festivities are usually held in people’s homes and neighborhoods, transforming into an occasion for Mexicans to begin celebrating the Christmas season alongside their loved ones. Whether it be a group of friends, a family gathering, an off-hours get-together with your coworkers, or even a corporate event, different social groups often opt for the ease and added space of a local restaurant or event venue to host their Christmas posada. Read on to discover a few favorites in the Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit region….  

Where to Host Your Posada in Vallarta and Nayarit 

Reserve a posada for your family, friends, or work team at one of the Riviera Nayarit’s many venues. Local restaurants, beach clubs and more provide beautiful settings, views, cuisine and cocktails for hosting intimate holiday events. 

ParrotFish in Puerto Vallarta and Punta de Mita 

The ideal space for a posada filled with contemporary style! ParrotFish restaurant boasts a sleek and vibrant atmosphere for your posada celebration. Feast on colorful Japanese-Mexican fusion cuisine, and toast to the holidays with ParrotFish’s drink menu with its iconic list of “Turn-On Elixirs” - wild cocktails to blow your guests away. ParrotFish has two locations in the Riviera Nayarit: one in the Zona Romántica of Puerto Vallarta, and another in exclusive Punta de Mita. To book a posada event with ParrotFish, we recommend calling them at the numbers on their website. https://parrotfishrestaurant.com/ 

Taormina in Nuevo Vallarta 

For a family posada with guests of all ages! Taormina restaurant is nestled within a charming plaza in the heart of the mini destination of Nuevo Vallarta, setting it close to some of the region’s top hotels and resorts. Savor Mediterranean and Italian cuisine alongside your loved ones with recipes inspired by the owner’s family. Taormina also has live music on weekends. To find the best date and time to host your family posada, call Taormina directly at +52 322 226 9765 

Insú Sky Bar in Nuevo Vallarta 

Celebrate your Mexican posada with a sunset view. Insú Sky Bar can be found at the top of Marival Distinct, a luxury resort in Nuevo Vallarta. This open-air rooftop space has panoramic vistas of Banderas Bay along with a high-rise infinity pool. Guests can enjoy an array of cocktails and mouthwatering bar-style bites at this posada venue. To book your posada at Insú Sky Bar, call directly at +52 322 226 9740 

Nicksan in Nuevo Vallarta 

The perfect posada venue for foodies and sushi-lovers! Set at Residences Plaza in the Nuevo Vallarta area, Nicksan has a stylish space for intimate gatherings with views of its fascinating show kitchen. This Japanese-Mexican fusion restaurant is known for its innovative sushi rolls and memorable cuisine. To book a posada for your group, call Nicksan directly for all the details at +52 322 297-2464

Mozzamare Beach Club in Nuevo Vallarta 

One of Vallarta’s most luxurious beach spots! Treat your guests to all the beauty and wonder of a posada on the beach at Mozzamare, a Nuevo Vallarta beach club. This venue boasts a golden sand beach with sunset vistas, along with a pool area and a palapa restaurant serving enticing food and drinks throughout the daytime and evening. To book your posada at Mozzamare Beach Club, call directly at +52 322 226 9745 

Whether you're seeking a cozy family gathering or a lively event with friends and coworkers, hosting a posada in Vallarta and Nayarit offers the perfect blend of tradition and modern festivity. From scenic beachfront settings to chic rooftop bars and vibrant restaurants, the region’s venues provide unforgettable backdrops for celebrating this cherished Mexican tradition. As the warmth of the posada brings people together, it also serves as a reminder of the joy and unity that define the holiday season. Wherever you choose to celebrate, may your posada be filled with laughter, delicious food, and the magic of a Mexican Christmas.