Culture
The island of Puerto Rico is rich in festivals, traditions, art, and music — but it doesn’t end there. Come see how welcoming and enchanting the Island’s culture really is.
Live Boricua!
In Puerto Rico, we call ourselves Boricua. It’s a unique name that honors our Island heritage, but it’s also a way of life, a state of mind, a rhythm and flavor that is distinctly Puerto Rico. Once you visit us, you’ll find that spirit in yourself, too. From our sparkling beaches to our rich and vibrant culture, we invite you to experience Puerto Rico the Boricua way.
The Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián mark the end of Christmas in Puerto Rico.
Festivals and Traditions
From Three Kings' Day parades in January to clapping when a plane touches down on the Island, traditions are kept alive by Puerto Rico's locals year after year. It's easy to find a tradition that speaks to you with endless festivals, events, and holiday celebrations from east to west and north to south.
Join the "party in the street" vibe at Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián in the historic city of Old San Juan or experience traditions like Three Kings' Day that date back to the Island's Spanish history. No matter what time of year, culture is present in every corner of this Caribbean paradise.
A favorite tradition is drinking the local coquito during the holidays. It looks like eggnog but is much sweeter and coconut-based. Make sure to try some while you're there! Puerto Ricans have traditions that are their own and love to share the experience with visitors.
To dive-deep into Puerto Rico’s art, visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico.
Art in Puerto Rico
With colorful street murals and contemporary art museums, Puerto Rico's art scene is unique and full of history. The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (Museum of Art of Puerto Rico) in Santurce is packed with contemporary and classic pieces that date back to the 17th century. Nearby, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (Puerto Rico Contemporary Museum) is not to be missed if you want a taste of the Island's modern side. Distrito T-Mobile offers a less traditional art space, featuring an eclectic mix of mosaics, murals, sculptures, and installations by Puerto Rican artists at different points of this impressive entertainment venue.
The Island's long-lasting relationship with art – whether it's a view in museums, galleries, or street murals – has paved the way for a colorful, intriguing way to learn about the Island's culture and history. You'll find more art in places like Ponce and Bayamón as well. Finding a piece of local artwork, whether it's a painting or a hand-carved figurine, is the perfect souvenir to take back home with you!
For a bountiful of colorful murals, check out the Santurce area in San Juan.
San Juan’s famous Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastian mark the official end to Puerto Rico’s holiday season.
Free-spirited Santurce is home to art galleries, museums, restaurants, and an abundance of street art.
Music, dancing, and good food are guaranteed at the island’s many festivals.
"San Pedrito" by Ana Marietta at Distrito T-Mobile.
Distrito T-Mobile is a place where you will find many vibrant murals by Puerto Rican artists.
Bomba dancing is one of Puerto Rico's deepest cultural traditions.
The energy of the Boricuas is vibrant.
Music and Dancing in Puerto Rico
Speaking of enchanting, the Island's contagious musical rhythm is sure to delight you. The Island's sounds range from traditional salsa to bomba y plena, a contagious dance inspired by Puerto Rico's African roots. Bring your dancing shoes because the musical culture on the Island is alive, vibrant, and too good to miss.
All year-round, you can hear Puerto Rico's energetic and vibrant culture through the music that blankets the Island. Whether you're looking for upbeat salsa or a softer beat like the trova, the tropical flavor of Puerto Rico makes its way into the songs, music, and artists of the Island. You'll have to go out on the town and dance the night away to understand it!
Fortín Conde Mirasol in Vieques was the last fortification built by the Spaniards in the Americas.
Five Small Museums around Puerto Rico
From lace-knitting to sports and maritime history, learn about Puerto Rico from a different perspective.
Santurce has become Puerto Rico’s version of Wynwood Arts district in Miami.
Exploring the Santurce Neighborhood
Journey through one of San Juan’s lively arts districts.
View of a garita and the ocean from El Morro, in Old San Juan.
Memorable Historic Sites in Puerto Rico
The top places where you can experience the history of the Island.
The energy of the Boricuas is vibrant.
A Guide to Music in Puerto Rico
Music is at the heart of Puerto Rican culture.
Discover the stories behind the walls of Old San Juan.
Five Days of History and Culture in Puerto Rico
There is so much more than just the beach.
Viewing art at Museo de Arte San Juan.
Top Art Museums in Puerto Rico
From murals to art galleries to museums, experience the art of Puerto Rico.
A Street Art Tour of Santurce
Discover the San Juan neighborhood that has emerged as the capital of art in the Caribbean.
Movies and TV Shows Filmed in Puerto Rico
From tropical beaches to the cobblestoned streets of Old San Juan, the Island gives filmmakers the opportunity to bring many different stories to life.
Explore Puerto Rico’s Top Museums from Home
Take a virtual tour and discover the island’s artistic scene.
Explore Culture
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The Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián mark the end of Christmas in Puerto Rico.
Annual Festivals in Puerto Rico
Almost every weekend, there is a festival or a celebration around the Island. These are some of the biggest and most popular.
Art
Contemporary, classical, urban, or historic, Puerto Rico has art that will inspire you.
Music & Dance
Dance and music are essential when describing the energy and vibrancy of Puerto Rico. They are the epitome of traditional expressions of the island’s culture and heritage.
A group touring the Tanamá River in Utuado with Explora PR.
Tours
Venture out with local guides for once-in-a-lifetime experiences and hidden gems.