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! On April 18 and 19, 2026, get ready to experience the excitement of this famous event, where more than 300 vehicles from all corners of Mexico gather 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.
The participants arrive on Friday but the activities don’t begin until Saturday at 5 pm, with a car parade that will begin in Rincón de Guayabitos, and continue 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 thru the communities, a welcome party in the Guayabitos square has live music. The amazing display of classic vehicles and those that are tricked out with neon lighting, suspension of variable height and powerful sounds are 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.) This is the 26th show arranged by the organization. The Sunday events run from 10 am until 3: pm with lots to see. The judging considers various characteristics of the vehicles and selects top cars to receive awards.
Guayafest 2026 is billed as a family-friendly event where there will be food, drink and entertainment, plus having an area were spare VW parts and accessories will be on sale. There will be 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!