Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Puerto Vallarta.
Can I visit the church if I’m not Catholic?
Absolutely! The church is open to all visitors, regardless of their faith. It is a space for peace, prayer, and appreciation of art and history. We only ask for respect toward those who may be praying.
What is the dress code?
Modest attire is required: no bare shoulders, no low necklines. This is the most important rule for visitors and applies to both men and women.
Can I take photos inside?
Yes, photography is allowed both outside and inside the church. Please avoid using flash during services and maintain a respectful tone.
Are there English-language masses?
Yes. Saturdays at 5:00 PM there is a full English mass. Sundays at 10:00 AM there is a bilingual mass (Spanish and English). English-speaking visitors are warmly welcomed at all services.
What are the Fiestas Guadalupanas?
They are Puerto Vallarta’s most important religious celebration, held from December 1 to 12 each year. They include over 400 processions along calle Juárez, pre-Hispanic dancers, mariachis, nightly fireworks, and culminate on December 12 with the pre-dawn “Mañanitas” to the Virgin. It is an extraordinary experience for visitors of any faith.
How do I arrange a wedding at the parish?
The parish celebrates weddings almost every day. Contact the parish notary office at (322) 222-1326 or email [email protected]. All requirements must be fully met; simply reserving a date and time is not sufficient. Couples from other cities must first contact their home parish.
What are the requirements for sacraments?
Each sacrament has specific requirements. For Baptism: child’s birth certificate with grandparents’ names, godparents’ religious marriage certificate (or confirmation certificate if single). For Confirmation: First Communion must be completed. For Marriage: all requirements must be met before booking. For Quinceañera (XV Años): attend 4 Saturdays with the youth group wearing modest attire. Contact the notary office for complete information.
Is the crown a replica of Empress Carlota’s crown?
No. This is a widespread myth but it is completely incorrect. The crown was an original creation by Jaliscan sculptor José Esteban Ramírez Guareño, installed between 1963 and 1965. It is not a replica of any imperial crown. After the October 9, 1995 earthquake destroyed it, artist Carlos Terrés sculpted the current crown in 2009. For the full story, visit our page on the crown or the archive at puertovallarta.net.
Where can I park?
There is no dedicated parking for the parish. Public parking lots are available on surrounding streets in the historic centre. The church is within walking distance of the Malecón, Plaza de Armas, and most downtown hotels.
How do I contact the parish office?
Address: Miguel Hidalgo 370, Col. Centro, C.P. 48300, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco.
Phone: (322) 222-1326
Email: [email protected]
Office hours: Monday–Friday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Saturdays 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.