Cabaret Show and Mixology Cocktails in a Mexican Cantina

Discovering the Cabaret Show and Mixology Cocktails at La Catrina Cantina

If you’re headed to Puerto Vallarta and looking for an evening that combines fun, dance, and uniquely crafted drinks, the Cabaret Show and Mixology Cocktails at La Catrina Cantina is worth considering. This lively venue, hailed as the #1 Nightlife Spot in the Romantic Zone, promises an engaging night out that’s centered around energetic performances and colorful drinks. While it’s not a sit-down dinner affair, it offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for those wanting a taste of local entertainment with a splash of Mexico’s festive spirit.

What we love about this experience: First, the dedication to creating a lively, authentic Mexican vibe with beautiful murals and costumes that make for great photos. Second, the inclusive, friendly atmosphere where everyone’s encouraged to join in the fun—whether dancing or dressing up. One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is more about the show and cocktails than a traditional sit-down dinner, so if you’re craving a full meal, this might not be your best fit.

This tour suits travelers looking for a casual, lively night out with a focus on entertainment and cocktails rather than a formal dining experience. Perfect for singles, couples, or groups wanting to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant nightlife with a touch of Mexican flair, it’s a fun way to start your evening or to enjoy a repeat visit during your stay.

Key Points

• Vibrant Nightlife: Enjoy a lively cabaret show featuring various entertainers, including musical acts and possibly drag performances.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The murals of “Day of the Dead” Catrinas and colorful costumes set a festive tone ideal for social media.
• Complimentary Drinks: Receive a welcome shot of infused tequila and two specialty cocktails, making it a good value for the price.
• Casual Experience: No dinner included, so plan to eat beforehand or explore nearby eateries afterward.
• Flexible Duration: The experience lasts approximately 2 to 5 hours, allowing for a relaxed or energetic evening.
• Accessibility and Timing: Open Wednesday to Sunday evenings, with stairs to access the venue—good to know for those with mobility concerns.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Venue: La Catrina Cantina

Located right in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone, La Catrina Cantina is celebrated as the top nightlife spot in the area. The venue’s exterior and interior are stunning, decorated with colorful murals of “Day of the Dead” Catrinas—an instantly recognizable Mexican symbol of celebration and remembrance. These murals not only provide a beautiful backdrop but also make for fantastic selfies, so bring your camera or smartphone ready for social media.

The Atmosphere and Setting

Once inside, you’re immediately immersed in a lively, friendly environment where music, dance, and celebration are front and center. The staff is described as fun and enthusiastic—creating a welcoming vibe that encourages guests to get involved. The ample costumes provided are perfect for adding a playful touch, and many visitors report that dressing up enhances the overall experience.

The Entertainment: What to Expect

Every night offers a different lineup of performers, which keeps the experience fresh and exciting. Music spans a range of genres, from traditional Mexican tunes to pop and R&B, performed in both Spanish and English. The reviews note that the singers are “amazing,” and the overall show is energetic enough to inspire some dancing, especially with costumes at your disposal.

However, some guests, like Walter J, found the performance to be “fair” and would have preferred a more traditional or consistent musical vibe rather than the variety of acts. This highlights the unpredictable nature of live entertainment—good for those who enjoy surprises but possibly less ideal if you’re expecting a polished, traditional cabaret or concert.

The Drinks: Mixology at Its Best

The highlight for many is the complementary drinks. You’ll start with a shot of infused tequila, which is a nice touch—adding a local flavor to your experience. Then, you get to sample two of the specialty cocktails from the “Viva Mexico” menu. These drinks are crafted with attention to flavor and presentation, and they allow visitors to enjoy a taste of Mexican mixology without breaking the bank.

Tipping the staff and performers is encouraged—an important cultural note that helps support the lively entertainment scene here. For just around $16.71, this included drinks and snacks, making it a reasonably priced night out in Puerto Vallarta.

The Snacking and Ambience

The signature Tajin popcorn is a light snack that complements the drinks and adds a touch of local flavor. It’s nothing too heavy but enough to keep your palate excited as you watch the show. The colorful costumes, murals, and lively music create a joyful, almost carnival-like atmosphere—ideal for visitors seeking lighthearted fun in a social setting.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: La Catrina Cantina

The heart of the experience, this venue provides the stage for a host of nightly acts. You might see different entertainers every time, which is part of the charm—one night a drag show, another night a live band or solo singer. The decor sets the tone, with murals that evoke Mexico’s vibrant cultural identity.

The entertainment begins around 6:30PM and continues until nearly midnight—giving you ample time to enjoy the performance, sip cocktails, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The venue is accessible via public transportation, and most travelers find it easy to reach, though it does involve stairs, so those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

Your experience includes:

• Welcome shot of infused tequila: a shot that kicks off the evening with local flavor.
• Two specialty cocktails: expertly mixed drinks from the “Viva Mexico” menu.
• Snacks: Tajin popcorn, a crunchy, flavorful treat.
• Costumes: fun, decorative options to get into the Mexican spirit and take memorable photos.

What’s not included? Since dinner isn’t part of the package, plan to eat beforehand or afterward at one of the many nearby eateries.

Authenticity, Value, and Considerations

While the experience offers lively entertainment and a fun setting, opinions vary about the quality of the performances. One reviewer found the show “fair,” suggesting expectations might need to be adjusted—this isn’t a polished, Broadway-style production but more of a spontaneous, spirited local cabaret.

On the upside, the price point makes it excellent value—drinks and snacks included for less than the cost of a few cocktails elsewhere. The free cancellation policy adds a layer of flexibility, especially useful for travelers uncertain of their plans.

However, some guests have expressed disappointment over seating arrangements, feeling they didn’t get a good view of the show. If being close to the stage is important, it’s worth arriving early or confirming seating options when booking.

Who Will Love It?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a lighthearted, social evening with a touch of local culture. If you enjoy live entertainment, dancing, and creative cocktails, you’ll find this experience engaging. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate the festive Mexican aesthetic and don’t mind a more casual, energetic vibe.

It’s less ideal for visitors expecting a traditional or polished musical performance or a full dinner experience. If you’re after a quiet, romantic night, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

The Cabaret Show and Mixology Cocktails in Puerto Vallarta’s La Catrina Cantina offer a lively, colorful evening that captures the city’s festive spirit. The murals and costumes create picture-perfect moments, while the complimentary drinks make it an excellent value for a fun night out. The unpredictable entertainment keeps things fresh, making it a good choice for those who enjoy spontaneous live performances and socializing.

While it’s not a formal dinner venue and the performances may vary in polish, the overall energy and authentic Mexican ambiance make this a memorable part of any Puerto Vallarta itinerary. It’s best suited for casual night owls, cocktail lovers, and anyone wanting to soak up local culture in a fun, unpretentious setting.

FAQ

Is there a dress code?
There’s no strict dress code, but since costumes are provided and the atmosphere is festive, casual or smart casual attire is perfect.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, you’ll receive a welcome shot of infused tequila and two specialty cocktails from the “Viva Mexico” menu.

Can I bring children?
The experience is geared toward adults (+18), especially since alcoholic beverages are involved.

How long does the show last?
The experience typically lasts between 2 and 5 hours, giving you flexibility based on your interest and schedule.

Is it easy to find the location?
Yes, the cantina is near public transportation and is easy to access, though it involves stairs.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In all, this experience offers a fun, energetic slice of Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife that’s worth trying for a lively start or a memorable night out.