Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, August 4

Night in Paradise

@ Plaza de Dorado, Dorado

6 PM - 11 PM

Outdoor event held the first Friday of every month in Dorado's town square. Features latin and urban music, food tasting from featured restaurants and alcoholic beverages for sale.

Free admission


Saturday, August 5

Puerto Rico Comics Festival

@ El Mercado Libre, Roberto H. Todd Ave., San Juan

9 AM - 6 PM

This event highlights Puerto Rico's homegrown comic book industry. Featuring several local artists. A food  truck will be on site.

Free Admission


Cine Del Estuario

@ Condado Lagoon, San Juan

7 PM -10 PM

Showing of the Disney movie "Moana" on a large outdoor screen by Condado Lagoon. Bring your own chairs, blankets and food.

Free admission


PRFC vs Jacksonville Armada FC (Soccer)

@ Juan Ramon Loubriel Stadium, Bayamón

7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Puerto Rico Football Club plays a North American Soccer League season game against Jacksonville, Florida's Armada.

Tickets: $10-$50


Sunday, August 6

Rincón Sunset Festival 2017

@ Plaza De La Amistad, Rincón

1 PM - 8 PM

Family oriented event featuring live music, petting zoo, exotic animal exhibits, artisans and food vendors.

Free admission


Emoji Fun Race 5K

@ Luis Muñoz Rivera Park, San Juan

7 AM - 12 PM

Pick your favorite emoji and create a team to participate in this fun race.

Registration: $30 pp, or $25 pp for groups of 4 or more.

The Puerto Rico Monitor cannot take responsibility for the accuracy of the  above listings. They are based on  the best information available at the time of writing.

Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, July 21

Fajardo Patron Saint Festival

@ Plaza de Recreo, Fajardo

6 PM - 12 AM

This eastern coastal municipality holds its annual patron saint festivities from Wednesday to Sunday. Food vendors, carnival rides, boxing card, live music and floats.

Free admission


Gallery Nights

@ Plaza De Recreo Rey Fernando II, Carolina

6 PM - 11 PM

Enjoy art, live music, salsa lessons and the opportunity to taste local gastronomy at the plaza in downtown Carolina.

Free admission


Melao Melao Beach Festival

@ Puerto Nuevo Public Beach, Vega Baja

7 PM - 12 AM

Food vendors, live music and sporting events in a beach party setting. Runs from Friday to Sunday.

Free admission



Saturday, July 22

Loíza Patron Saint Festival

6 PM - 12AM

@ Medianía, Loíza

Loíza probably has the most unique patron saint festivities in Puerto Rico, and they stretch from July 21 to July 30, taking place at different spots throughout town each day. Loíza's festivities are known for their many processions, African influence and distinctive "vejigante" masks.

Free admission


Vieques Summer Festival & Carnaval

@ Vieques Town Square

7 PM - 12 AM

The offshore municipality's patron saint festivities include live music, food stands, games of chance, sporting competitions, a marathon and bouncehouses. Runs from Thursday to Sunday, with a "carnaval" on the last evening.

Free admission


Bayamón Museum of Art Guided Tour

@ Ramón Luis Rivera Avenue, Bayamón

10 AM - 4:30 PM

45 minute guided tour of the permanent and temporary collections of the Bayamón Museum of Art. Call 787-269-4433 to register.

Free admission


Sunday, July 23

Playa Summer Tour 2017

@ Puerto Nuevo Public Beach, Vega Baja

11 AM - 5 PM

Radio stations Mega 106.9 and La Nueva 94 host this touring beach festival which is held at different PR beaches  through the summer. Games, contests, music will be on offer.

Free admission


World Salsa Congress / Street Welcome Fest

@ Plaza Del Mercado, Santurce, San Juan

6 PM - ???

The "biggest event in the world" for salsa dancers opens its 20th installment beggining on Sunday and running until July 29th. Sunday features a welcome party at the restaurant and bar-lined Plaza Del Mercado with live music and DJs.

No admission cost listed



The Puerto Rico Monitor cannot take responsibility for the accuracy of the  above listings. They are based on  the best information available at the time of writing.

Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, July 14


Villalba Patron Saint Festival

@ Plaza de Festivales, Villalba

1 PM - 12 AM

This south-central town's annual patron saint festivities run from Thursday to Sunday. Carnival rides, musical performances and food vendors, including the "Bacalaitos Food Fest" which highlights the well-known codfish fritter.

Free admission.


Cataño Patron Saint Festival

@ Malecón de Cataño, Las Nereidas Avenue, Cataño

6 PM - 12 AM

Cataño's patron saint festivites run from Wednesday to Sunday. Featuring live music, sporting and children's activities, carnival rides and food vendors.

Free admission


Saturday, July 15,


Medalla Light Lost In Paradise 2017

@ Guajataca tunnel, Isabela, Puerto Rico

5 PM - 1 AM

Electronic and dance music event with various acts and DJs performing live, among them Planet of the Drums and Desert Hearts. Tickets can be purchased at Kókomo, Waves, Echo Verde, Gravity, Treats, Blue Surf Shop, El Rex and The Room.

Tickets: $36-$92


Fish Festival

@ Plaza del Pescador, Cabo Rojo

9 AM - 12 AM

Event highlighting fish and fishermen, featuring fishing tournaments, domino competitions, live music, 5K race and children's activities.

Free admission


No Te Quedes Sin Bailar

@ Placita Roosevelt, Ing. José A. V. Canals Street, San Juan

7:30 PM - ??

Go dance at Roosevelt Square with the Realengos Salseros salsa band and DJ Luis Domenech. Happens every second Saturday of the month.

Free admission


Sunday, July 16


Playa Summer Tour 2017

@ Cerro Gordo Public Beach, Vega Alta

11 AM - 5 PM

Radio stations Mega 106.9 and La Nueva 94 host this touring beach festival which is held at different PR beaches  through the summer. Games, contests, music will be on offer.

Free admission


National Ice Cream Day 2017

@ Luis Muñoz Marín Park, San Juan

10 AM - 4:30 PM

Family-oriented event featuring live entertainment, ice cream workshops, games, prizes and free ice cream (one per person, while they last).

Free admission



The Puerto Rico Monitor cannot take responsibility for the accuracy of the  above listings. They are based on  the best information available at the time of writing.



For more information on visiting Puerto Rico, read The Real Deal Guide to Puerto Rico, only $3.59 in e-book format!

Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, June 30

Aibonito Flower Festival

@ Puerto Rico 722, Aibonito

8 AM - 7PM

Horticulturists show off a wide variety of flowers and other plants, many of them for sale. Live music will also be featured at this long-running festival. Runs from June 30 to July 9.

Kids $2 / Adults $6 (weekdays), Adults $7 (weekends & July 4th)


Al Fresco Music & Culinary Show

@ Paseo de las Artes Abelardo Díaz Alfaro, Calle Padial, Caguas

6 PM - Midnight

Food and beverage vendors, artisans and live entertainment. Takes place the last Friday of every month.

Free admission


Saturday, July 1

Fiestas Ciudad De El Yunque

@ Ovidio de Jesus Más Pista Stadium, PR-3, Río Grande

12 PM - 12 AM

The city of Río Grande holds its annual carnival, featuring live entertainment, food vendors, music and a traditional "carnaval". Runs from Thursday to Sunday.

Free admission


Sunday, July 2

Playa Summer Tour 2017

@ Boquerón Public Beach, Cabo Rojo

11 AM - 5 PM

Radio stations Mega 106.9 and La Nueva 94 host this touring beach festival which is held at different PR beaches through the summer. Games, contests, music will be on offer.

Free admission

Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, June 23


Noche de San Juan

@ beaches across Puerto Rico

Traditional festival honoring Saint John. Revelers celebrate at the beach after dusk and jump "back first" into the ocean at midnight for good luck. Police presence is expected at most major beaches throughout the night. Avoid out of the way or poorly attended locations.


Inflalandia

@ Puerto Rico Convention Center, San Juan

Family-oriented event with bouncehouses, virtual reality games, sporting events, shows and other attractions geared towards children. Runs Friday and Saturday.

$15-$20 plus service charges


Saturday, June 24


Ceviche & Seafood Fest

@ Bahia Urbana, Pier 6, San Juan

Several restaurants offer tastings of their seafood dishes with prices ranging from $3-$5. Live music will be available.

$15 plus tax


Caribbean Exotic Pets Expo

@ Parque Ecuestre Trujillo Alto

The event bills itself as the largest exhibition of exotic animals in the Caribbean. Exhibits, artisans, vendors and seminars on animal care will be available, along with food and refreshments for sale.

Free admission.


Sunday, June 25


Ventana Al Jazz

@ Bahia Urbana, Pier 6, San Juan

Enjoy live jazz in a family friendly setting every last Sunday of the month. Chairs and coolers are allowed. Runs from 5-9 PM.

Free admission


LGBTIQ Pride Parade

@ Parque Del Indio, Condado, San Juan

March begins at 11:00 AM and will end at Tercer Milenio Park in Old San Juan, where entertainment will be provided.

Free admission.

Puerto Rico Activities For This Weekend

Friday, May 5

Playarte Nights

Boardriders Surf Bar holds this arts and culture event the first Friday of every month at La Pared beach. Live music, artisans and other presentations.

Where: La Pared beach, Herminio Diaz Navarro Street, Luquillo
When: 7 PM - 12 AM
Admission: Free


Pineapple Festival

Chefs from restaurants around La Parguera present pineapple-based dishes. Live music and vendors will also be available. A 5k run will take place Saturday. Festival runs all weekend.

Where: La Parguera, Lajas
When: 9 AM - 11 PM
Admission: Free



Saturday,  May 6

La 18: Art & Gastronomy on Wheels

Fair featuring visual arts, design and several food trucks. Runs Saturday and Sunday.

Where: Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico, San Juan
When: 11 AM - 9 PM
Admission: Free


Guajataca Carnival

Live entertainment, float parade, carnival rides, vendors. Runs from Friday to Sunday.

Where: Pedro Hernández Basketball Arena parking lot, Quebradillas
When: 7 PM - 12 AM
Admission: Free



Sunday, May 7

Expomecanika 2017

Convention for those interested in the building or repair of motor vehicles, aircraft or boats

Where: Puerto Rico Convention Center, Guamaní Street, San Juan
When: 9 AM - 6 PM
Admission: Free


Urban Market at Ventana Al Mar

Farmer's market featuring local produce and food products taking place in Condado.

Where: 1054 Ashford Avenue, San Juan
When: 9 AM - 5 PM
Admission: Free

The Puerto Rico Monitor cannot take responsibility for the accuracy of the  above listings. They are based on the best information available at the time of writing.

For more information on visiting Puerto Rico, read The Real Deal Guide to Puerto Rico, only $3.59 in e-book format!

Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, April 21

Carolina Gallery Nights

Enjoy a night of cultural expression with live music, art and the best of local gastronomy. Featuring the exposition "Entre Medios" by the students of the Carolina School of Fine Arts.

Where: Plaza de Recreo Rey Fernando III, Carolina,
When: 6 - 11 PM
Admission: Free


'Ponte Los Cortos" Film Festival

Exhibition of short films, documentaries, music videos and commercials made by young filmmakers. Awards for the best films and creators will be presented.

Where: Museum of Art of Puerto Rico, San Juan (787-568-5318)
When: 4 PM - 10 PM (Runs Friday to Sunday)
Admission: Free


Saturday, April 22

Garnier Green Bag Fest

Musical concert to celebrate and create awareness of the importance of recycling. Featuring Cafe Tacuba, Danny Fornaris and DJ Rosamalia. Requirements for free admission: Buy three Garnier products at CVS or Walgreens and get a Garnier recycling bag. Fill the bag to the printed line with Type 1 and/or Type 2 recyclable plastics, bring the bag to the event.

Where: Pedro Roselló Convention Center, San Juan
When: 6 PM - Midnight
Admission: Free (see restrictions above)


Amy Winehouse Tribute

Outdoor musical event celebrating the late British musician and singer.

Where: Vivo Beach Club, Isla Verde, Carolina
When: 8 PM - midnight
Admission: $20


Sunday, April 22

Rio Camuy Rafts

Motorless rafts, as well as canoes and kayaks, will be on display on the Camuy River. Also featuring live entertainment, food kiosks, bounce houses, artisans, camping areas and river diving competitions.

Where: Florencio Cabán Boardwalk, Camuy
When: 10 AM - 6PM
Admission: Unknown (call 787-262-7471)

Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, April 7

Noche En El Paraíso

Outdoor festival featuring music, gastronomy from various chefs and restaurants, alcoholic beverages and fashion. This Friday's theme is "Cuban Night"

Where: Plaza de Dorado, Dorado
When: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Admission: Free

Mojo Culinary Fest

Local Salinas restaurants display their best dishes. Music, tapas, bar and refreshments available.

Where: Plaza de Recreo Las Delicias, Salinas
When: 5:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Admission: Free


Saturday, April 8

12th Sea Turtle Festival

Luquillo welcomes sea turtle nesting season and promotes natural conservation during this celebration featuring music, food vendors, artisans and childrens' activities.

Where: Luquillo Public Plaza, Jesus T Pineiro St., Luquillo
When: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Admission: Free

Purina Snacks Woof Cinema Easter Edition 2017

Come watch "The Secret Life of Pets" with your dog. Free admission with packaging from a Purina Snack or a donation of any Purina or Purina Snacks food product for the Pet SOS foundation.

Where: Bahia Urbana, Pier 6, San Juan
When: 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Admission: Free (see above)


Sunday, April 9

Puerto Rico North Fashion Week 2017

Three-day festival features several designers showing off their latest styles. Runs Friday to Sunday. For tickets, email northfashionweek@gmail.com.

Where: Embassy Suites by Hilton (Dorado del Mar Beach Resort), Dorado
When: 7:00 PM- 11:00 PM
Admission: $30 per night

Condado In Concert 2017

Enjoy classical and local musical favorites, played by Iván Rijos with Francisco Cabán on violin.

Where: Antonia Quiñones Plaza, Luchetti Street, San Juan
When: 6:00PM - 8:00 PM
Admission: Free

The Puerto Rico Monitor cannot take responsibility for the accuracy of the 

above listings. They are based on the best information available at the time

of writing.

For more information on visiting Puerto Rico, read The Real Deal
Guide to Puerto Rico, only $3.59 in e-book format!

Visiting The El Yunque Rainforest

Feature

Bill Alvarez

The only honest-to-goodness tropical rainforest under the United States flag is located in eastern Puerto Rico, mostly in the town of Rio Grande. To get to it from San Juan, take Highway 26 east, and then exit onto PR Interstate Road 3, and head east/south (you can also take Toll Road 66 east, which is a faster way to get to Road 3, with a lot less traffic lights.) Off of Road 3, turn right onto PR-191 (you will see road signs directing you there, so it’s hard to miss). Once on PR-191, follow the signs for El Yunque. You will go through a small neighborhood and then you will notice you are driving increasingly uphill. Before long, you will see the forest’s welcome sign, and then the visitor’s center. The total drive from San Juan (if you take only Road 3, rather than Road 66 and Road 3) is about 30 miles, and will take about an hour.

The forest is officially open from 7:30AM to 6:00 PM daily. It doesn’t cost anything to get into the rainforest as such, and you can enjoy the many hiking trails, streams and waterfalls at no cost. The Visitor’s Center does charge $4 for adults and $2 for seniors, although children under 15 get in for free. They have a gift shop, cafeteria and some forest-related exhibits, as well as a movie about the rainforest narrated by Benicio del Toro. It is open daily from 9:00AM to 4:30 PM.

As you drive up through the rainforest, you will see several spots with limited parking where you can stop and go hiking or take some pictures. La Mina and La Coca waterfalls are both beautiful, and I recommend taking a dip in at least one of the pools at the bottom of the falls. The water is pretty cold, though! Rocks will also be slippery, so water shoes would be a handy thing to bring with you, along with an umbrella and/or poncho. As the name suggests, it rains all the time up there.

Stop at Yokahu Tower, climb up the stairs to the top and take some pictures of the stunning panorama. The hiking trails are pretty amazing, but they can be a bit narrow and steep. If you’re not in at least moderately good shape, you may only want to walk a portion of a trail, or skip them altogether. Wear some tennis shoes or hiking boots with good traction. La Coca Trail, La Mina Trail and the Big Tree Trail are some of the more popular ones (more trails here:http://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/elyunque/recreation/hiking/?recid=43377&actid=50).

The Mina Trail actually has a southern and a northern portion. The northern one follows the river more closely and seems to be the prettier one. Most trails have small picnic areas and gazebos along their trails.

DO NOT go exploring off-trail. El Yunque is a very large, deep jungle and you can most definitely get lost, perhaps for days. A few people who throughout the years have decided to venture into the forest without following trails did not make it out alive. I don’t want to scare you, all I’m saying is: follow the trails and you will have a great time.

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There are no indigenous peoples, cannibals, lions, elephants or other large animals in El Yunque. While the flora is very extensive and beautiful, the forest’s fauna is limited to lizards, insects, frogs and birds. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot. You will almost certainly hear the call of Puerto Rico’s small native frog, the Coqui (its call sounds just like its name, a hypnotizing “co-kee, co-kee”). Please deposit all trash in marked receptacles, or take it with you.

Out of the hundreds of species of plants you will see at El Yunque, some are known to be poisonous. I would not recommend eating any wild fruits or berries during your visit. For more detailed information on

poisonous plants, go here:http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/elyunque/learning/nature-science/?cid=fsbdev3_042885. Most of the vegetation is safe, though, and the forest is home to over two hundred different species of tree, as well as a dizzying array of flowers, among them different types of orchids.

If you’re more than a little adventurous, you can do some rain forest ziplining. YunKE Zipline Adventures offers a couple of different ‘adventures’ involving a few ziplines over a part of the forest, as well as some rappelling. As of summer 2013, their packages were priced at $99 per person. You can contact them directly at their website (http://yzapr.com). Rain Forest Zipline Corp (http://rainforestzipline.com/) also offers zip lining adventures, apparently at about the same price as YunKe ($99 + tax during day, $75 + tax at night), including a nighttime “Firefly Canopy Tour”.

For more detailed and current information on the rainforest, visit the US Park Service’s El Yunque website at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/elyunque

For more information on visiting Puerto Rico, check out The Real Deal Guide to Puerto Rico, 

available as an e-book

The Real Deal Guide To Puerto Rico

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Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, March 31


Festival Guatibirí

Town fair in the city of Cayey, featuring artistic performances, competitions,
food and vendors. Runs from Friday to Sunday.

Where: Jájome Bajo Ballpark, Cayey
When: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Admission: Free


Rincón Film Festival

Over 100 cinematic projects from 12 countries will be available at the 10th
edition of this film fest. Runs from Friday to Sunday.

Where: Villa Cofresi, Rincón
When: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Admission: $10-$75


Taste of Rum Festival

The 8th installment of this Old San Juan event takes place on Friday and Sa-
turday. Includes rum seminars, competitions, live music and food and bever-
age samples.

Where: Paseo de la Princesa, Old San Juan
When: 7-10 PM (Friday) & 1 PM-9 PM (Saturday)
Admission: $35 (Fri.) / $45 (Sat.)


Saturday, April 1


Orchid Festival

Educational seminars, exhibitions, vendors and children's activities. Runs
all weekend.

Where: UPR Botanical Gardens, San Juan
When: 8:00 AM -6:00 PM
Admission: Free


Food Truck Fest

The San Ignacio School student Council holds a festival on its grounds fea-
turing several food trucks and live music.

Where: Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, San Juan
When: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Admission: $5, kids under 10 free


Condado Lagoon Estuary Cinema

The San Juan Bay Estuary Program and National Parks Company show the
movie "Trolls" in an open air setting. Bring your own blankets or chairs,
food and drink.

Where: Condado Lagoon (Jaime Benítez Park)
When: 7:00 PM-10:00 PM
Admission: Free


Ponce Artisanal Fair

Over 100 artisans and vendors, live music, competitions workshops and food
kiosks. Runs Friday to Sunday.

Where: Plaza Las Delicias, Ponce
When: 9:00 AM-10:00 PM
Admission: Free


Sunday, April 2


Sunday En Isla Verde

Food trucks, beverages, live music and organic food market. No coolers
allowed. Parking and transportation available from the Balneario de Isla
Verde public beach.

Where: Isla Verde Municipal Service Center, Carolina
When: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission: Free


Multipiano Fest 2017

Large scale piano event featuring 90 performers of varying skill levels, ages
6 to 45, with 22 pianos on stage. Free admission, but tickets from the Conser-
vatory are required. Call 787-751-0160 ext. 274.

Where: Puerto Rico Musical Conservatory, San Juan
When: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Admission: Free

The Puerto Rico Monitor cannot take responsibility for the accuracy of the 

above listings. They are based on the best information available at the time

of writing.

For more information on visiting Puerto Rico, read The Real Deal
Guide to Puerto Rico, only $3.59 in e-book format!

Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, March 24

Heineken Jazz Fest

The renowned latin jazz festival celebrates its 27th installment from March
23rd to the 26th. This year it is dedicated to pianist and composer Danilo Pé-
rez. Performers will include vivanativa Funk & Blues, Spyro Gyra, Ellis Mar-
salis’ Quintet, Danilo Pérez & Bobby Valentín & The LJ’s, among others.

Where: Bahía Urbana, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Time: Performances start at 8:00 PM (5:00 PM on Sunday 3/26)
Admission: $12 on Thursday 3/23, $20 Friday, Saturday & Sunday
(+ tax/fees)


Manatí Coffee Bloom Festival

The first ever "Festival De La Florecida Del Café" features coffee tastings,
informational lectures, vendors, handicrafts, classic car and bike exhibitions
and a troubadour competition. Runs from Friday to Sunday.

Where: Manatí Public Square (Plaza Publica De Manatí), Padial Street
Time: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Admission: Free


Santa Isabel Agrofair

The southern town of Santa Isabel holds its 9th agricultural fair, featuring
agricultural classes and exhibits, live music, carnival ride, food kiosks and
vendors. Runs from Friday to Sunday.

Where: Patron Saint Fairgrounds (terrenos de fiestas patronales)
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission: Free



Saturday, March 25

Sociali.ize Puerto Rico 2017

"The most complete social experience of your life. An entertainment event
beyond social media." Features gaming, stand-up comedy, roller skating,
live music, lazer tag and more

Where: Puerto Rico Convention Center, Guamaní Street, San Juan
Time: 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Admission: $15.00 (+tax/fees)


Kids' Art Workshop

Workshop is offered in the gazebo area and aimed at children ages 4 and
up, including those with special needs. Materials are included. Kids create
works of art inspired by the Botanical Garden as they learn about design
and composition.

Where: University of Puerto Rico Botanical Garden, San Juan
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Admission: Free


Puerto Rico Islanders vs New York Cosmos (Soccer)

The Puerto Rico Football Club (PRFC) kicks off the 2017 North American
Soccer League season by facing off against the defending champions.

Where:  Juan Ramon Loubriel Stadium, Bayamón
Time: 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Admission: $10.00 - $50.00



Sunday, March 26


Gózate Ballajá

An afternoon of Puerto Rican music with the students and faculty of the
Dr. Francisco López Cruz foundation. Food, coffee, sangria and art gallery
in an Old San Juan setting.

Where: Cuartel De Ballajá, Calle Del Morro, Old San Juan
Time: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Admission: Free


Goya Culinary Festival 2017

Goya holds its 5th Culinary Festival features food competitions and live
music. Goya will double attendees' food donations for charity. Free parking.

Where: Goya Foods of Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico 28, Bayamón
Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Admission: Free if you bring three units of the following Goya products,
per person: Adobo, Medium Grain Rice, Beans, Juices or Dux Cookies.






For more information on visiting Puerto Rico, read The Real Deal
Guide to Puerto Rico, only $3.59 in e-book format!

Puerto Rico Events For This Weekend

Friday, March 17

Las Marias Orange Festival

This mountain town celebrates citrus in its town square. Vendors, food, artistic
performances. Runs from Friday to Sunday.

Time: 8 AM-11 PM
Where: Las Marias town square ("Plaza Publica")
Admission: Free

Ramas Festival 2017

"Playa Marias in Rincón will be the stage of 2 days of music, food, beach and
sun with 20 international and local bands: Skapulario, Voodoo Glow Skulls,
Calma Carmona, John Brown’s Body, among many others." Runs Friday &
Saturday.

Time: 4:00 PM
Where: Maria's Beach, Puntas, Rincón
Admission: $20-$35


Saturday, March 18

UNE Food Fest

Gastronomical event featuring restaurant and chef exhibits, live music and
vendors. Tickets can be purchased by phone at 787-257-7373 ext. 3001.

Time: 6 PM-11 PM
Where: Universidad Del Este, Carolina
Admission: $55

Surfing and Bodyboarding Contest 2017

Christian-themed surfing competition featuring various event categories. Runs
Saturday and Sunday.

Time: 7 AM-6 PM
Where: Plaza Aviones, Piñones, Loíza
Admission: $30 tournament inscription fee, free to attend


Sunday, March 19

St. Patrick's Day Parade

Part of Guaynabo's annual St. Patrick Day's festival, which begins on Thursday
the 16th.

Time: 1:00 PM (Parade at 4 PM)
Where: San Patricio Plaza, Guaynabo
Admission: Free

Veladas Románticas Al Atardecer

Live romantic latin music, featuring Nydia Caro. Tickets can be purchased in
advance at the hotel front desk or at the gate on day of show.

Time: 2 PM- 6 PM
Where: San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
Admission: $25

Some Activities for This Weekend

Friday, March 10

Refresh Woman Expo -- All weekend at Plaza Las Americas Mall, San Juan. Free
admission. Info.


Saturday, March 11

We The Future Festival -- Live music by Zedd, Cultura Profetica, DJ Snake and
others. Roberto Clemente Fairgrounds, San Juan. 5PM - 12AM. Tickets start at
$34.99. Info

Cosplay +Sz 3rd Anniversary 2017 -- Cosplayers meet to celebrate their hobby.
Luis  Muñoz Rivera Park, San Juan. 10 AM-4PM. Free admission. Info

Inksane Tattoo Fest 2017 -- Tattoo artist convention, with live entertainment and
competitions. Barceloneta Convention Center. 12 PM- 8 PM. Tickets $16.46 per
day, 2 day event. Info


Sunday, March 12

Guatibirí Festival & Half-Marathon -- Starts Saturday, but race is on Sunday. Music,
vendors, carnival rides. Parque Ramon Cabañas, Utuado. 4:30 PM. Free admission.

An Introduction To Puerto Rican Food

Feature

Bill Alvarez

The food is probably the best thing about the island that most of the world at large doesn't know about. Puerto Rican food is largely a combination of Spanish and African elements, with some American characteristics blended in over the last century. Puerto Rico's best  known dish these days is probably Mofongo, which is a ball of fried, green plantain filled with meat (usually either chicken, fish or pork) and sometimes served sitting in a few ounces of fish broth. Green plantains look a lot like bananas, but aren't sweet. The closest common taste I could compare it to would be potato. When the plantain ripens, it becomes sweet, but dishes with green plantain always seem to taste best. Dishes like tostones and arañitas are also made from green plantain.

Rice and beans are everywhere, and have long been a staple of the Puerto Rican diet. The rice is usually white, and the beans most often red kidney beans, but different varieties of both are used. The island's diet is also heavy on pork, and is often found inside pasteles (which are a sort of turnover) on kabobs (orpinchos) and in sausages. Pork chops are also popular. Lechon asado (pork roasted over an open fire) is also popular, and the best lechon can be found outside of the San Juan metro area. If you like skirt steak ("churrasco") you're in luck, because it's everywhere.

You will also find some pretty incredible sandwiches in Puerto Rico. Pan de agua, or water bread, is like a french/italian bread, and is always sold in loaves (a sweeter variant is known as pan sobao). It is delicious and can really make a sandwich. The best sandwich you'll have in PR will probably be the tripleta, which -- as per its name -- has three different kinds of meat. A common combination would be steak, ham and roasted pork, with some mayo, potato sticks, lettuce and ketchup, served on pan de agua. After a night of drinking, nothing quite hits the spot like that 4:00 AM Tripleta.

Frituras are fried foods (or snacks, really) that are commonly sold in stalls or kiosks. These stands are almost always near the beach, and are very common on Road 187, as you go into Piñones from San Juan, and on the service road by Luquillo Beach. Alcapurrias are cigar-shaped masses of fried yautia (a locally grown tuber) and plantain, filled with either ground beef or crab. Bacalaitos are shaped like pancakes, and are made from a batter of flour and codfish. Both are delicious, although certainly not health food (frituras are often fried in lard over open fires). Don't be afraid and try some of the local food; even if it looks weird at first, your taste buds will thank you. The stuff from the beachside kiosks is usually tasty and safe to eat.

You'll also see plenty of fruits and vegetables that you have probably never seen before. Quenepas are a round fruit with a tough, green skin, inside of which a large pit is surrounded by a sweet paste. When they are in season, you will see people selling quenepas in bunches by the side of the road. Stop and try some. Don't get them on your clothes, though. You'll also come across mangoes, guava, bananas, oranges, along with several root vegetables (referred to collectively as "verduras" ) which for the most part have names that don't seem to have English translations: yuca, yautia, ñame and malanga, among others. Go the Plaza del Mercado in Santurce (what you would call a "farmer's market" in the rest of the U.S., except this one is not for yuppies) and check out the dizzying variety of local ingredients and foods.

As far as drinks go, Medalla is the main local beer, and is normally found for about a dollar a can. It is a light lager with not much body, but it is easy to drink and gets the job done. Rum is plentiful and relatively cheap; try some of the lesser-known local brands like Barrilito or Ron Llave. Piña Coladas were allegedly invented in Puerto Rico (at the restaurant Barrachina, in Old San Juan, specifically), and you haven't had a piña colada until you've had one in Puerto Rico. Want to try some coconut or pineapple soda? PR would be the place to do so. Malta is also big on the island. It is a carbonated, malted beverage, similar to beer, except that it is dark, sweet and non-alcoholic. If you visit near the holidays, try coquito, which is a coconut-heavy version of eggnog and is usually spiked with rum (ho-ho-HO!). Fruit juices are also a popular drink on the island. And yes, the water is okay to drink.

For more information on visiting Puerto Rico, check out The Real Deal Guide to 
Puerto Rico, available as an e-book.

Visiting The El Yunque Rainforest

Feature

Bill Alvarez

The only honest-to-goodness tropical rainforest under the United States flag is located in eastern Puerto Rico, mostly in the town of Rio Grande. To get to it from San Juan, take Highway 26 east, and then exit onto PR Interstate Road 3, and head east/south (you can also take Toll Road 66 east, which is a faster way to get to Road 3, with a lot less traffic lights.) Off of Road 3, turn right onto PR-191 (you will see road signs directing you there, so it’s hard to miss). Once on PR-191, follow the signs for El Yunque. You will go through a small neighborhood and then you will notice you are driving increasingly uphill. Before long, you will see the forest’s welcome sign, and then the visitor’s center. The total drive from San Juan (if you take only Road 3, rather than Road 66 and Road 3) is about 30 miles, and will take about an hour.

The forest is officially open from 7:30AM to 6:00 PM daily. It doesn’t cost anything to get into the rainforest as such, and you can enjoy the many hiking trails, streams and waterfalls at no cost. The Visitor’s Center does charge $4 for adults and $2 for seniors, although children under 15 get in for free. They have a gift shop, cafeteria and some forest-related exhibits, as well as a movie about the rainforest narrated by Benicio del Toro. It is open daily from 9:00AM to 4:30 PM.

As you drive up through the rainforest, you will see several spots with limited parking where you can stop and go hiking or take some pictures. La Mina and La Coca waterfalls are both beautiful, and I recommend taking a dip in at least one of the pools at the bottom of the falls. The water is pretty cold, though! Rocks will also be slippery, so water shoes would be a handy thing to bring with you, along with an umbrella and/or poncho. As the name suggests, it rains all the time up there.

Stop at Yokahu Tower, climb up the stairs to the top and take some pictures of the stunning panorama. The hiking trails are pretty amazing, but they can be a bit narrow and steep. If you’re not in at least moderately good shape, you may only want to walk a portion of a trail, or skip them altogether. Wear some tennis shoes or hiking boots with good traction. La Coca Trail, La Mina Trail and the Big Tree Trail are some of the more popular ones (more trails here:http://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/elyunque/recreation/hiking/?recid=43377&actid=50).

The Mina Trail actually has a southern and a northern portion. The northern one follows the river more closely and seems to be the prettier one. Most trails have small picnic areas and gazebos along their trails.

DO NOT go exploring off-trail. El Yunque is a very large, deep jungle and you can most definitely get lost, perhaps for days. A few people who throughout the years have decided to venture into the forest without following trails did not make it out alive. I don’t want to scare you, all I’m saying is: follow the trails and you will have a great time.

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There are no indigenous peoples, cannibals, lions, elephants or other large animals in El Yunque. While the flora is very extensive and beautiful, the forest’s fauna is limited to lizards, insects, frogs and birds. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot. You will almost certainly hear the call of Puerto Rico’s small native frog, the Coqui (its call sounds just like its name, a hypnotizing “co-kee, co-kee”). Please deposit all trash in marked receptacles, or take it with you.

Out of the hundreds of species of plants you will see at El Yunque, some are known to be poisonous. I would not recommend eating any wild fruits or berries during your visit. For more detailed information on

poisonous plants, go here:http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/elyunque/learning/nature-science/?cid=fsbdev3_042885. Most of the vegetation is safe, though, and the forest is home to over two hundred different species of tree, as well as a dizzying array of flowers, among them different types of orchids.

If you’re more than a little adventurous, you can do some rain forest ziplining. YunKE Zipline Adventures offers a couple of different ‘adventures’ involving a few ziplines over a part of the forest, as well as some rappelling. As of summer 2013, their packages were priced at $99 per person. You can contact them directly at their website (http://yzapr.com). Rain Forest Zipline Corp (http://rainforestzipline.com/) also offers zip lining adventures, apparently at about the same price as YunKe ($99 + tax during day, $75 + tax at night), including a nighttime “Firefly Canopy Tour”.

For more detailed and current information on the rainforest, visit the US Park Service’s El Yunque website at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/elyunque

For more information on visiting Puerto Rico, check out The Real Deal Guide to Puerto Rico, 

available as an e-book

The Real Deal Guide To Puerto Rico

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