Tara A. Spears
Every year on coastal Jaltemba Bay, Nayarit, a festival takes place that makes the hearts of Volkswagen classic car enthusiasts beat faster: Guayafest! Held each April, the event brings the excitement of more than 300 vehicles from all corners of Mexico gathering to celebrate their passion for Beetles and other iconic models from the brand.
Organized by the TPC Bugs Club Tepic, Guayafest is a true nirvana for Volkswagen enthusiasts. From classic Beetles to combis, Brasilias, Golfs, Jettas, and Buggies, this event brings together a wide range of vehicles competing to be the best in their category, some retaining their original appearance and others with actual modifications that awe all attendees. Admission to the Guayabitos Plaza is free.
Participants typically arrive on Friday, but the activities don’t begin until Saturday evening, with a car parade that begins in Rincón de Guayabitos and continues through Los Ayala and La Peñita de Jaltemba, escorted by local police.
The participants of Guayafest have their cars on exhibit in the town plaza until the cavalcade down the main avenue of Guayabitos. After the Saturday night drive through the communities, a welcome party in the Guayabitos square has live music. The amazing display of classic vehicles — some tricked out with neon lighting, variable-height suspension and powerful sound systems — is a hobbyist’s dream. The owners of the Volkswagens love to tell about their wheels and have their photo taken with them. It’s great to see foreigners, local people and visitors alike enjoying the car show and turning the town streets into a party.
On Sunday, the exhibition of classic cars is introduced by the President and Secretary of the Association of Hotels of the municipality of Compostela, as well as the President and Founder of the TPC Bugs Club, to start the competition in 22 categories.
The TPC Bugs Club, based in Tepic, is a community created for true VOCHEROS (Volkswagen enthusiasts). The 2026 edition marked the 26th show arranged by the organization. Sunday events typically run from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., with lots to see. The judging considers various characteristics of the vehicles and selects top cars to receive awards.
Guayafest is billed as a family-friendly event where there is food, drink and entertainment, plus an area where spare VW parts and accessories are sold. There is more music and other activities throughout the day Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free.
Be sure to bring your camera to capture these awesome machines — and mark your calendar for next April!
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