Plaza Garibaldi
Where the mariachis wait — hire a song, or a whole serenade, on the spot
- Activity level
- Before surgery / return trip — Save this for before your procedure or your next visit.
- Cost
- $$
- When to go
- Evenings from about 8; liveliest Friday and Saturday nights
- Address
- Plaza Garibaldi, Eje Central, Centro
Garibaldi is where the city’s mariachis gather for hire — dozens of bands in full traje, trumpets flashing under the lights, competing to serenade whoever walks past. Pick a band, name a song, and the plaza becomes your private concert for three minutes.
Around the square sit the old cantinas and the Museum of Tequila and Mezcal for structure if you want it. Go with a group, keep your phone in a front pocket, and let the night be exactly as long as it wants to be.
Getting there
Ten minutes north of Bellas Artes by rideshare; go door to door at night rather than walking the stretch of Eje Central. Agree song prices with the band before they play.
If you are recovering
This is a late, loud, tequila-adjacent night out — the kind of outing to enjoy before your procedure or on a return trip. If your care team has you avoiding alcohol and late nights, the mariachis also play the plaza in the early evening, which makes a shorter, gentler version.
Activity levels and recovery notes are general guidance about logistics, not medical advice. Follow your care team’s instructions.
Photo credits
- Plaza Garibaldi — José Luiz (CC BY-SA) · Source
More things to do
Churrería El Moro
Churros and thick hot chocolate since 1935 — the original counter on Eje Central
Gentle $
