Velas Vallarta - Press Room

Velas Vallarta Announces New Equinox and Solstice  Ceremonies Celebrating Huichol Culture

  Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (February 24, 2023) - Velas Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is now offering guests a chance to learn about the local Huichol culture with new equinox and solstice ceremonies. The Huichol are a Mexican indigenous group located in the states of Jalisco (where the resort is located), Nayarit, Zacatecas and Durango. Their name can be interpreted as "the healers". This year at Velas Vallarta there will be different activities where guests can immerse themselves into this important culture during the Spring and Autumn Equinox as well as the Summer and Winter Solstice.

The equinox and solstice ceremonies will be led by experts of the Huichol or Wixárika culture. During the ceremonies guests will be led through various chants and prayers to father sun tawerxik+a, dedicated to the four elements of fire, water, earth, and air with the purpose of thanking him for life. Following the chants, an offering with Copal, candles and flowers will be made to showcase gratitude. Copal has been used for centuries throughout different cultures to purify the environment and keep away evil spirits. Guests will also enjoy traditional music, dancing, and Mexican dishes including tamales, atole, tortillas and more.

The ceremonies, also known as peyote ritual or hikuri, will be held on the beach over the following days: 

• March 20, 2023 - Spring Equinox, celebrating the end of winter and fresh new beginnings.
• June 21, 2023 - Summer Solstice, marking the longest day of the year and start of summer. 
• September 23, 2023 - Autumnal Equinox, which marks a time to give thanks to harvest and to honor the changing seasons. 
• December 22, 2023 - Winter Solstice, celebrating the cycle of nature and marking the day of the sun's rebirth.   

Nightly rates at Velas Vallarta start at $190 per person per night, based on double occupancy. All-inclusive rates include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity, and more. For reservations or more information, please call 1-888-407-4869 or visit https://www.velasvallarta.com. 

Velas Vallarta is an all-inclusive family resort located on 10 oceanfront acres with lush gardens in Puerto Vallarta. Situated on the emerald waters of Banderas Bay, Velas Vallarta features 345 suites, Convention Center, swimming pools, AMET Spa along with seaside cabins, fitness center, multiple restaurants, and an inviting lounge with live music. Nightly theme dinners and local specialties are sure to please even the most discerning palates, and suite service is available around the clock. Guests can choose from an original array of activities and events, from Straw Mosaics to Mexican fiestas. The Kids' Club welcomes children under 13 with supervised activities like mini mariachi and sand sculpture. In addition, the resort's commitment to environmental sustainability is certified Gold by EarthCheck. Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, operates Velas Resorts with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: www.velasmagazine.com.