Cabaret Show and Mixology Cocktails in a Mexican Cantina

Thinking about adding a splash of vibrant entertainment to your Puerto Vallarta trip? This cabaret show and mixology cocktail experience at La Catrina Cantina promises an evening filled with lively music, colorful costumes, and creative drinks. While it’s not a full dinner show, it’s a fun, social outing that’s perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere and a taste of local flavor.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines entertainment with a taste of Mexico’s spirited cocktail scene. The murals of “Day of the Dead” Catrinas provide a stunning backdrop for photos, and the lively performances add a festive touch. Plus, the price point is quite reasonable, especially considering the inclusion of cocktails and snacks.

However, a potential consideration is that the performance quality varies, and some travelers have found the experience to be somewhat underwhelming or not quite what they expected from a traditional show. Keep in mind, it’s more about the overall vibe and social scene than a polished, high-end production.

This tour would suit anyone looking for a fun, casual night out — especially if you enjoy vibrant nightlife, a bit of people-watching, and sipping on inventive cocktails in a lively setting. It’s also good for travelers who want a low-commitment, reasonably priced experience that’s easy to fit into an evening in Puerto Vallarta.

Key Points

• Vibrant atmosphere with colorful murals and lively music
• Affordable price including cocktails and snacks
• Casual and social vibe perfect for a relaxed night out
• Variety of entertainment including live music and possibly drag shows
• Experience quality varies, some reviews mention performance fairness
• Great photo opportunities with Mexican-themed decor

A Detailed Look at What You Can Expect

The Venue: La Catrina Cantina

This spot has earned the title of #1 Nightlife Venue in the Romantic Zone, and for good reason. The decor is striking, with murals of “Day of the Dead” Catrinas that make for memorable photos. The ambiance is festive and inviting, making it clear this is a place to enjoy good company and lively entertainment.

The cantina is accessible near public transportation, which makes it easy to find and hop into after a day of exploring Puerto Vallarta. Be aware that there are stairs, so if mobility is a concern, plan accordingly. The space is designed to be welcoming, and the staff are generally described as fun and friendly.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Start at La Catrina Cantina around 6:30 PM, where the fun kicks off with live entertainment. The variety of music genres—from Mexican tunes to R&B and pop—means there’s likely something to suit everyone’s taste. According to reviews, you may even see a drag show, adding that extra element of surprise and fun to your evening.

What’s included?
– A welcome shot of infused tequila — a nice touch to get the night rolling.
– Two specialty cocktails from the “Viva Mexico” menu — crafted with Mexican inspiration, these drinks are part of the experience.
– Snacks, specifically Tajin popcorn, to keep your appetite satisfied during the show.
– Decorative costumes to help you get into the Mexican spirit, which can make for some fun photos and a more immersive experience.

The entertainment: While some guests have found the performances to be merely fair, the overall vibe remains lively. The singers, in particular, are often praised, with some reviews mentioning the quality of the singing as “amazing.” The unpredictability of the nightly entertainers means each visit could be different, which might be part of the charm.

Performance and Entertainment Quality

One review from Walter_J describes the performance as “fair,” expressing a preference for traditional canned or live music over the current setup. That said, it’s worth noting that this comment isn’t universal—others have found the singers to be quite talented. The variability means your experience might hinge on the specific performers on the night of your visit.

The Drinks and Snacks

The cocktails are a highlight, especially considering the price. For less than what you’d pay for a couple of drinks elsewhere, you get two specialty cocktails plus a shot of infused tequila. Many reviewers found this to be excellent value, and the drinks are crafted with Mexican flair that complements the lively environment.

The Tajin popcorn is a simple but tasty snack, perfect for munching during the show, and helps keep your energy up without needing a full meal. Remember, dinner isn’t included, so plan to eat beforehand or explore options nearby if you’re hungry.

The Cost and Value

At just over $16 per person, this experience offers a decent bang for your buck. You’re paying mainly for drinks, snacks, and entertainment—no dinner included. Considering the cocktails and tequila shot, many find it to be a good deal, especially if you’re looking for a light, social outing rather than a formal show.

Some reviews mention the experience as a “rip-off,” but those comments seem to overlook what’s included. For the price, you’re getting a lively atmosphere, drinks, and entertainment—just not a high-production, polished show. It’s more about the vibe than perfection.

Timing and Duration

The experience typically runs from 6:30 PM until 11:30 PM, giving plenty of time to enjoy the atmosphere and perhaps move on to other nightlife spots afterward. The tour duration is flexible, ranging from about 2 to 5 hours, depending on how long you want to stay and participate.

Who Is This Experience For?

If you’re someone who enjoys casual, social nightlife experiences with a splash of Mexican culture, this tour could be a great fit. It’s ideal for travelers who want a fun night out without the expense of a formal dinner or high-end show.

It’s also suitable if you’re keen on trying local-inspired cocktails or taking some fun photos in a colorful setting. However, if you prefer polished, high-quality performances or are looking for a traditional, sit-down show, this might not meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts

This cabaret show and mixology experience at La Catrina Cantina offers a lively, engaging way to spend an evening in Puerto Vallarta. While the performance quality may be inconsistent, the atmosphere, decor, and cocktails tend to shine through. It’s a relaxed, social outing that’s easy to fit into your night, especially if you’re exploring the Romantic Zone.

For travelers who appreciate vibrant, informal nightlife that combines good drinks with lively music and colorful surroundings, this tour is likely to be a fun addition to your trip. Be prepared for a lively crowd, and if you’re lucky, some fantastic photos and memorable moments.

FAQ About the Cabaret Show and Mixology Cocktails

Is dinner included in this experience?
No, dinner is not included. You’ll receive snacks and drinks, but if you’re hungry, plan to eat beforehand or explore nearby restaurants after the show.

Can I cancel this experience if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, this experience is geared toward adults, especially since it involves alcohol. Kids might enjoy the decor and atmosphere, but drinks and entertainment are aimed at an adult crowd.

What’s the best time to arrive?
The experience starts at 6:30 PM and runs until 11:30 PM. Arriving early can give you time to settle in and explore the decor before the show begins.

Is the venue accessible?
The cantina is near public transportation, but there are stairs, so it might not be ideal for guests with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is fine, but embracing the Mexican theme with fun costumes or accessories can add to the festive vibe and make the photos more memorable.

This tour offers a casual, lively way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife without breaking the bank. If you’re after a fun, social, and colorful evening, it’s worth considering — just go with open expectations about the performance quality, and focus on the good company and atmosphere.