Where to Hear Mariachi Music in Guadalajara
With spangled costumes and romantic flair, mariachi is at the heart of Guadalajara culture. The music, now recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, rings from local bars, balconies, and plazas in the vibrant city, where modern mariachi music evolved. Here are the best places to listen to mariachi music in Guadalajara.
El Parián de Tlaquepaque
Restaurants and cantinas line this historic plaza, where traditional dancers and mariachi musicians keep the party going in front of shady arcades and a gazebo. If you stop by, don’t miss the plaza’s characteristic drink, cazuelas de tequila, a blend of citrus, soda, and tequila.
El Plaza de los Mariachis
This pedestrian-only street is appealing for a daytime stroll, but the music kicks off after dark, when locals sip beer at sidewalk bars under garlands of colorful papel picado (perforated tissue paper). Bring plenty of small bills for tipping bands and making special requests: You can hear your favorite mariachi tunes starting at roughly 100 pesos.
Nueve Esquinas
More low-key than Guadalajara’s famous mariachi plazas, this spot is great for taking in some tunes if you’re not ready to dive into the party scene. Some of the local restaurants that surround Nueve Esquinas specialize in birria, a spicy goat stew from Jalisco. Spend an evening lingering over a bowl, and you’re likely to see a succession of mariachi crooners strike up a tune.
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