In Mexico, Christmas isn’t usually celebrated with the big outdoor markets you might be used to in the U.S., but here in the Riviera Nayarit, you’ll still find charming mercaditos with everything you seek for your Christmas shopping. Local artisan markets here are brimming with personality, offering food stalls, handmade gifts, live music, and a joyful holiday spirit. If you’re visiting this time of year, these markets are a wonderful way to soak up the local flavor while finding gifts that feel truly special. Let’s take a look at the favorites you won’t want to miss.
The main Christmas markets in the Riviera Nayarit
During the holiday season, lively local farmers markets become a prime spot for Christmas gift shopping. Each is open one day of the week throughout most of the year, but keep in mind that they all close for the summer months. Next time you’re in the Riviera Nayarit, you can stop by each one on a different day! Below, take a look at the top four Christmas markets in the Riviera Nayarit, each with a central location in key towns along the bay:
Olas Altas Farmers Market
Location: Lázaro Cárdenas Park in Zona Romántica, Puerto Vallarta
Open days: Saturdays, closed in the summer
Olas Altas is one of the largest and most popular artisan markets in the Riviera Nayarit. In the holiday season, you’ll find winding rows of tents with boutique clothing shops, handmade jewelry, handwoven baskets, and artwork by local artists, making this market the perfect spot to buy Christmas gifts for your loved ones.
While you do your Christmas shopping, make sure to save time for a little lunch with tacos, tamales, aguas frescas, and other Mexican street foods at the market, and to see the park’s famous and beautiful tile artwork.
Riviera Farmers Market
Location: Nuevo Vallarta, behind the Centro Empresarial Nuevo Vallarta
Open days: Tuesdays, closed in the summer
Riviera Farmers Market features dozens of tents along the marina in Nuevo Vallarta. This market is best known for its variety of artisanry and traditional Mexican art from all over the country. You’ll also find natural products, delicious Mexican food, jewelry, and even more surprises as you stroll through the market. So many options for Christmas gifts and décor can be found in the holiday season, along with ingredients, breads, and pastries to make Christmas dinner in the Riviera Nayarit.
Sayulita Mercado del Pueblo
Location: in the beach town of Sayulita, on Calle Revolución
Open days: Fridays, closed in the summer
For shoppers seeking the most vibrant, colorful and authentic crafts and artisanry on Mexico’s Pacific coast! Sayulita’s Mercado del Pueblo has nearly 80 vendors selling hand-painted décor and dishware, tapestries, home goods, and jewelry, along with all-natural gift ideas like organic soaps, handmade candles and oils, or local spices and salsas for the chefs in your life. The market is also known for its fresh local produce and vegan ingredients, so make sure to swing by to boost your healthy eating habits.
Bucerías Farmers Market
Location: in the beach town of Bucerías, outside La Comer grocery store
Open days: Wednesdays, closed in the summer
From local honey to leather goods, the Bucerías Farmers Market has Christmas gifts and souvenirs for all ages of loved ones. Shop around the tents for handwoven bags, paintings by Mexican artists, boutique shops for clothing and jewelry, and handmade toys for little ones. You’ll even find bakery items like sourdough bread and pastries to warm up your cozy Christmas gatherings.
While you’re at the market, save room for incredible Mexican street food like empanadas, cochinita pibil, burritos and empanadas, or even the popular artisanal ice cream.
Where to stay when Christmas shopping in the Riviera Nayarit
To make your holiday shopping getaway even more incredible, book your stay at one of the Marival Resorts properties, all located close to these festive markets. Each offers an all-inclusive plan perfect for families, with its own unique style:
Marival Emotions Resort by Mercure:A family-friendly favorite in Nuevo Vallarta with activities kids adore, like themed Pirate Day, a golden sand beach, a variety of pools to explore, and plenty of space for fun in the sun.
Marival Distinct Handwritten Collection: A stylish resort with spacious residence-style suites in Nuevo Vallarta, ideal for families who enjoy a mix of luxury and comfort, complete with world-class dining and its own beach club.
Armony Resort - MGallery Collection: An all-ages retreat in exclusive Punta de Mita where tranquility, nature, gourmet flavors, and stunning ocean views create the ultimate festive escape.
Whichever resort you choose, you’ll have easy access to the Riviera Nayarit’s most charming Christmas markets.
Come holiday shopping in the Riviera Nayarit with us
Christmas in the Riviera Nayarit sparkles with local charm, colorful markets, and flavors that warm the heart. As you wander through these holiday mercaditos, you’ll find gifts that are as special as the people you love, along with a festive spirit that makes the season unforgettable.
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