A Night at La Catrina Cantina: Cabaret Show and Mixology Cocktails in Puerto Vallarta

When you think of Puerto Vallarta, the image often includes stunning beaches, charming streets, and lively nightlife. If you’re looking to add a splash of entertainment and local flavor to your evening, the Cabaret Show and Mixology Cocktails experience at La Catrina Cantina offers a lively, colorful, and reasonably priced taste of Mexico’s spirited nightlife. With a price tag of just around $16.71 per person, this experience is short enough to fit into an evening but packed with enough entertainment to make it memorable.
This cantina, nestled in the Romantic Zone, has earned the title of #1 Nightlife Spot in the area. The highlight? An energetic, visually stunning cabaret show set against the backdrop of eye-catching murals of “Day of the Dead” Catrinas. You’ll love the vibrant atmosphere, the variety of live entertainment—from Mexican tunes to pop hits—and the chance to dress up with free decorative costumes. Plus, the included cocktails and snacks give this experience extra value, especially considering the affordable price.
However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention variable performance quality, and seating arrangements can affect how close you feel to the action. This experience suits travelers who are eager for a lively, social atmosphere and who enjoy colorful, cultural entertainment. If you’re looking for a relaxed, traditional bar experience or expect high-end performances, this might not be your ideal night out. But if you want an authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta nightlife with some fun, costumes, and cocktails, this tour hits the right notes.
Key Points

- Vibrant Atmosphere: Celebrates Mexican culture with murals, costumes, and lively entertainment.
- Inclusive Experience: Offers cocktails, snacks, and costumes in a budget-friendly package.
- Flexible Duration: Ranges from 2 to 5 hours, perfect for fitting into your evening plans.
- Varied Entertainment: Expect live music, possibly a drag show, and diverse genres in both Spanish and English.
- Great for Social Media: Colorful murals and costumes make for fantastic photos.
- Variable Performance: Reviews indicate some inconsistency in entertainment quality and seating experiences.
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In-Depth Review of the Experience
Location and Setting
Imagine stepping into a lively, colorful Mexican cantina brimming with murals of “Day of the Dead” Catrinas—the kind of vibrant art that practically screams for your Instagram feed. La Catrina Cantina has been recognized as the top nightlife spot in the Romantic Zone, making it a standout choice for evening entertainment. Its central location near public transport makes it accessible, and its lively, warm ambiance immediately sets a festive tone.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For around $16.71 per person, your ticket grants access to a lively show alongside some tasty, well-chosen drinks. The package includes:
- A welcome shot of infused tequila—a nice touch to kickstart your evening.
- Two specialty cocktails from the “Viva Mexico” menu—think vibrant, flavorful drinks tailored to Mexican themes.
- A serving of Tajin Popcorn, which adds a spicy, tangy snack to keep your energy up.
- Decorative costumes to get into the Mexican spirit—perfect for photos and fun.
Keep in mind, dinner is not included. If you’re hungry, plan to grab some snacks or a meal elsewhere beforehand.
The Show and Entertainment
Every night brings new performers, making it a spot to revisit on multiple evenings. The entertainment often features live music in various genres, including Mexican, R&B, and pop—sometimes in both Spanish and English. From the reviews, it’s clear that the singers are “amazing”, and the lively atmosphere encourages dancing and participation. The drag show could be a delightful surprise, depending on the night.
One highlight is the visual backdrop—murals of “Day of the Dead” Catrinas—which lend a striking, festive atmosphere perfect for social media selfies. The lively costumes and spirited ambiance make this a fun, colorful experience that many travelers cherish.
Seating and Performance Quality
Some reviews mention that seating arrangements might not always maximize your view or experience. One guest noted, “we expected to be seated where we could actually experience the show,” implying that seating might sometimes be limited or not ideal. If you’re looking for an intimate, high-quality performance, this might be a minor drawback. But for most, the overall energy and vibe compensate for this.
Value and Expectations
At a price that includes drinks, snacks, and entertainment, the value proposition is compelling. You might find it an excellent way to kick off a night out or to enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere with friends. Some reviews compare the experience favorably, noting that for the cost, you receive more than just a show—a lively atmosphere and colorful cultural experience.
However, a couple of critics felt that the performance was just “fair” and that a traditional bar with live or canned music might have been preferable. Such comments remind us that entertainment quality can vary, and this is part of the charm of a lively, spontaneous venue.
Who Is This For?
This tour is best suited for social travelers eager for a fun, vibrant atmosphere. It’s perfect if you enjoy dressing up, taking photos, and participating in lively shows. It’s also a good pick for those who want an affordable, culturally infused night out without the need for a sit-down dinner or high-end performance. But if you prefer quiet evenings or polished, predictable entertainment, you might want to explore other options.
Practical Details

- Duration: 2 to 5 hours, depending on how long you want to stay and how much you engage.
- Timing: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM.
- Booking: Usually booked about 3 weeks in advance; flexible cancellation with full refund if canceled 24 hours ahead.
- Accessibility: Near public transportation; stairs are present, so some mobility considerations apply.
- Age restriction: Must be 18+ to enjoy cocktails.
Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a lively night filled with colorful Mexican art, spirited music, and fun cocktails, La Catrina Cantina delivers on all fronts. Its affordability and central location make it an accessible choice for anyone seeking to experience Puerto Vallarta’s famous nightlife without breaking the bank.
The visual appeal of murals and costumes, combined with live performances and social atmosphere, make this a memorable stop. While the entertainment quality may fluctuate, the overall vibe remains upbeat and engaging. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to participate and capture fun moments.
In sum, this experience offers authentic fun, a taste of local culture, and a chance to meet fellow travelers. It’s an especially good pick for those who love lively, informal entertainment and colorful settings, especially if you enjoy snapping photos for social media or just soaking in the festive spirit.
FAQ

Is this experience suitable for all ages?
No, it’s geared toward those 18 and older since alcohol is involved.
How long does the tour last?
The experience ranges from approximately 2 to 5 hours, depending on how long you stay and how much you participate.
Are meals included?
No, dinner and additional food are not included. You might want to eat beforehand or plan to grab snacks later.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start are fully refundable.
Is this experience appropriate for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, entertainment includes performances in both Spanish and English, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.
Are there options for vegetarians or special diets?
The tour details don’t specify dietary accommodations, but snacks are included, and additional food isn’t part of the package.
Is tipping expected?
Yes, tipping the entertainers and staff is strongly encouraged to support their work.
This lively cabaret experience at La Catrina Cantina offers a colorful, enjoyable evening that captures the spirit of Puerto Vallarta. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a fun, social, and culturally vibrant night out without a hefty price tag. Just be prepared for variable performance quality, and you’ll find it a worthwhile addition to your vacation.
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