How to See Live Tango in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina is the tango capital of the world. Created in Buenos Aires in the 1800s by poor immigrants, Argentine tango is one of the most sultry, seductive and mesmorizing dances around. If you have the pleasure of visiting this amazing country, do not miss your chance to witness the passion and strength displayed in a live tango performance, which truly encapsulates the spirit of Argentina. 

1. Step 1

   Enjoy dinner and a professional tango show at the many dinner theaters Buenos Aires has to offer. Esquina Carlos Gardel, La Ventana, Taconeando, El Querandí, Señor Tango, Michelangelo, Complejo Tango, and Che Tango are some of the city’s most popular tango show theaters. Come hungry and ready to be amazed by the fancy footwork displayed by these tango pros.

2. Step 2

   If you have already eaten, but are craving some tango for dessert–fear not. There are many tango shows in Buenos Aires that focus strictly on the dance. These are usually more low-key and less touristy. Check out Recoleta Tango, Café Tortoni, and the Teatro Colón.

3. Step 3

   Take a giant leap off the tourist path, and head to a local bar or a milonga, to observe tango performed by local residents, called Porteños. These dancers are not professionals, but they all share a passion for the dance of their country, and certainly put on quite a show. After a few Quilmes (Argentina’s famous beer), you just may feel like joining in. Salon Canning, Bar Celta, Milongueando, Confitería Ideal, Bella Vista Tango Club, La Viruta, Soho Tango, Mundo Tango, and Porteño y Bailarín are just some of the many milongas in Buenos Aires.

4. Step 4

   One of the best places to see live tango is on the streets of the city itself. Flock to a crowded, tourist-laced area for a chance to see a free performance right on the street amidst the chaos of the city. With their own music in tow, these street dancers are more often than not extremely talented and are well-deserving of a peso or dos.

5. Step 5

   Head to the San Telmo market, which occurs every Sunday, to witness some of tango’s finest amateur talent. In addition to the rare antiques and beautiful hand-made goods you will find at the market, it is also a great place to catch live tango right on the closed-down cobble stoned streets leading up to the market tents.

6. Step 6

   The crowded pedestrian-only shopping street, la Calle Florida is perfect not only for a great bargain, but for live entertainment in the form of tango as well.

7. Step 7

   La Boca, one of the city’s most unique neighborhoods and original immigration port, is the perfect place to experience the real spirit of Argentine tango. Brightly colored buildings, beautiful art, and live music provide the perfect backdrop for an impromptu tango show in Caminito. La Boca is after all, the birthplace of tango.

Source: eHow