Puerto Vallarta Gays: Celebrating Community Champions and Cultural Icons at Awards Gala

March 1, 2024

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Photos by Oscar Almeida

It was an evening of Who’s Who in Gay Puerto Vallarta at the inaugural celebration of Puerto Vallarta Gays Best Of Awards 2023.

More than 160 people attended the event, which was held on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Beefcakes Bar.

Attendees were greeted by Jet De La Isla, founder of the Facebook group “Puerto Vallarta Gays: Everything Gay You Need To Know”, and Chad Simpson, a moderator of the group.

“On behalf of the Puerto Vallarta Gays: Everything Gay You Need Or Want To Know Facebook Group, I want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to each of you for your remarkable achievements at the Puerto Vallarta Gays Best Of Awards 2023,” Jet De La Isla said. “Your talent, passion, commitment, and vision have played a pivotal role in making Puerto Vallarta one of the most vibrant and diverse gay communities in the world.”

De La Isla explained that this first awards mixer was just a taste of what’s to come in the future.

“I envision the ceremony becoming more elaborate, with nominees announcing winners in an annual ceremony showcasing the best of the best,” he said. “Each year will be bigger and better, creating an annual event that will be not to be missed, celebrating the very best of what Vallarta has to offer.”

Some 45 awards were handed out to winners like Hotel Mercurio, lauded as the Best Gay Hotel, and La Noche, crowned as the Best Cocktail Bar. The accolades extended to individuals as well, with Daniel Lozano Lugo earning the title of Best Influencer and Mizz Peaches reigning supreme as the Best Drag Queen.

“Thanks to your contributions, Puerto Vallarta continues to be a beacon of inclusivity and warmth, attracting millions of visitors year after year. Your dedication and hard work have not only enriched our community but have also helped shape the welcoming environment that we are known for,” De La Isla said. “To all the winners, nominees, and everyone involved, your efforts deserve recognition, thanks, and much more. You are the driving force behind our community’s growth and success, and we are immensely grateful for your continued support. Thank you once again for being an integral part of our community and for helping us create a place that we are all proud to call home.”

The winners are: