Nightlife
Articles about Nightlife from Medellin Living — expat guides, news and first-hand experience in Medellín, Colombia.
Medellín After Dark: The Best Nightlife in Medellín.
Short on time? Medellín’s nightlife offers something for every kind of night owl, from rooftop cocktails and intimate salsa bars to electronic music venues and high-energy reggaeton clubs. If you think you have…
An Honest Review of Salon Malaga
Medellin’s nightlife is a jungle of musical genres that can be overwhelming for the old-fashioned, who might enjoy other genres such as tango and bolero. Salon Malaga is an old-timey bar perfect for tango and bolero…
The Ultimate Guide to Mercado del Rio
Mercado del Rio is the first food market in Colombia and one of the must-visit spots in Medellin. Whether you want to enjoy gourmet cuisine dishes at one of its 30 restaurants or get some deep work done at a cafe or…
The Gin and Tonic Lover’s Guide to Medellín
You’ve just landed in Medellin, and all you see around the city are tours and Colombian coffee shops! Want to try something new? Then take a look at Colombian gin and tonic. It’s a delicious surprise to find new flavors…
The Marquee Hotel’s Café: A Review
Taking a quiet afternoon sipping some coffee in Medellin can enhance your visit, so it’s worth considering. Where can you grab a cup of coffee from the best-tasting beans in the world? As a coffee purist, I’m here to…
Strolling the Stalls at Medellín’s Farmer’s Markets
Medellin is such a biodiverse country in the world. Please don’t leave without first giving a farmer’s markets tour around Medellin. So put your shoes on and get a taste of exotic fruits and vegetables that you’ll only…
The Best Bubble Tea Spots in Medellín
Bubble tea, otherwise known as boba, has made its way to the big cities of Colombia, including Medellin. From small stalls in malls and parks to large stores that specialize in playing with the unique flavors and…
The Lowdown on the Medellín Tattoo Expo
Tattoo culture has gained strength in Medellin in recent years. In fact, you’ll find many professional tattoo studios throughout the city. Whether you want to bring a tattooed souvenir from your trip to Medellin or to…
What to Do During a Stay at Factory Lofts
Laureles is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Medellin, thanks to its bustling nightlife. And, if you’re staying at Factory lofts, there are some amazing places to check out in this low-key neighborhood. There’s…
Noir Cafe: A Coffee Lover’s Guide
Colombia is a country that’s famous for its high-quality coffee. And, Medellin is one of the cities where you’ll find coffee shops on every corner, so sometimes it’s hard to choose your favorite. If you’re still hunting…
The Beer Lover’s Guide to the Best Breweries in Medellín
I’ll admit it. I’m a beer snob. When I go somewhere new I love trying out different breweries, especially craft breweries. There’s something about them that really gives you a feel for the culture and flavors of a city.…
The Linguist’s Guide to Medellin: Top Language Exchange Meetups
There’s no better way to practice a language than by talking with a native speaker. In Medellin, there are tons of places to practice Spanish, English, and other languages. And, it’s a great way to meet both paisas and…
How Many Days Should You Stay in Medellin?
Medellin is becoming a popular tourist destination, despite its rocky history. Today, it’s a thriving hub where you’ll find booming business and plenty of fun activities. The trouble is, with so much to enjoy, it can be…
The Best Luxury Hotels in Medellín: The Ultimate Guide
There’s nothing like a luxury vacation. Luxury hotels give you a way to really kick back and relax without having to worry about any of the stuff you usually would back home. While many places around the globe have…
Nights on the Town: The Best of Medellin Nightlife (Plus Top Tips!)
Medellín is one of the happiest cities in Colombia and for good reason. Paisas love to live life to the fullest through dancing the night away! Perhaps that’s why visitors and locals flock to bars and clubs in large…
Covid Tests, Rules, and Regulations in Medellin: What You Need to Know
The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, and it’s hard to know for sure when we’ll win the battle against the coronavirus. In spite of this, countries have started relaxing the rules for traveling, and it’s now much…
Your Guide to Teatro Pablo Tobón Uribe
Teatro Pablo Tobón Uribe is one of the city’s largest theaters and plays host to an array of different cultural events.
Medellin Living 2019 Reader Survey
It’s been three years since we last asked you what you want to know about Medellín and what you enjoy most (and least) about Medellin Living blog, and to say that the blog and the city had changed in those years would…
La 70: Medellín’s Party Strip
Paisas love to party. From sauntering through salsa clubs, getting low in reggaetón bars, fist-pumping to techno, belting out the lyrics to vallenato, or simply enjoying beers and ‘guaro at the tienda, you can guarantee…
Things to Do in Medellín on Saturdays
The weekend has finally arrived and with weather as perfect as Medellín’s, it’s difficult to stay in bed past 10 am without deep feelings of guilt. If you’re not too hungover from the night before, Saturdays in the City…
The Top Gay-Friendly Places in Medellín
Medellín is one of the most progressive cities in Colombia – over the past decade seeing a rise in more accepting attitudes, particularly around LGBT voices and rights. While Colombia essentially remains a conservative…
Expat Profile: Craig Watson from Barrio Central Cafe Bar
An interview with Craig Watson, the English-born owner of Medellin’s Barrio Central Cafe Bar.
Speed Dating in Medellín: One Man’s Experience
A first-hand account of speed dating in Medellín.
Where to Watch the World Cup in Medellin
A soccer fan’s guide on where to watch the World Cup 2018 matches in Medellin.
Bardesono: Blending Live Music and Fine Dining in Poblado
The Bardesono restaurant offers diners a unique blend of cuisine and live musical entertainment in the Poblado neighborhood in Medellin.
Join the Medellín Living April Meetup at Gato Restaurante & Cocina Peruana in Poblado
The Medellín Living December meetup event will take place on Wednesday, December 13, at 7pm at Gato Restaurante & Cocina Peruana in Poblado.
Dating Tips: Up-to-Date Advice for Foreign Men in Medellín [2018 Update]
A collection of contemporary dating tips to assist foreign men looking to date Colombian women in Medellin.
Guide to Craft Beer Breweries in Medellin
A guide to the thriving craft beer scene in Medellin.
New Opening: Habanos Point Cuban Cigar Room
I recently had the opportunity to visit Habanos Point Cigar Room owned and operated by Orlando Limoneta Juantorena. Orlando is the exclusive importer and only authorized distributor of ALL cuban cigars in Colombia. I…
Join the Medellin Living November Meetup at Barrio Central in Laureles
The Medellin Living November meetup event will take place on Thursday, November 9, at 7pm at Barrio Central Cafe Bar in Laureles.
Join the Medellin Living October Meetup at Borneo in Poblado
The Medellin Living October meetup event will take place on Thursday, October 19, at 7pm at Borneo Restaurant and Bar in Poblado.
Colombian Dating: 18 Great Places to Take a Date
18 places to take a date in Medellin, including restaurants, cafes, and places for drinks and dancing.
Join the Medellín Living July Meetup at Sport Wings in San Lucas Plaza
You are invited to the Medellín Living July meetup event taking place on July 13, 2017, at Sport Wings in San Lucas Plaza.
Join the Medellín Living June Meetup at Sport Wings at Mayorca Mall
We want to invite you to the Medellín Living June meetup event taking place on June 8, 2017 at Sport Wings at Mayorca Mall in Sabaneta.
Join the Medellín Living May Meetup at Del Patio Restaurant and Bar
We want to invite you to the Medellín Living May meetup event taking place on May 11, 2017 at Del Patio Restaurant and Bar in Laureles.
Guide to Medellín Language Exchange Nights: Practice Your Spanish
Medellin offers a wide variety of language exchange nights where foreigners can go to practice their Spanish and meet new people.
Barchiquita: Medellín’s Kitsch Bar
Barchiquita is a cocktail bar, a museum of experiences from diva goddess fictional character, Chiquita’s travels and extravagant life.
Barrio Central: A Grungy Addition to Laureles Nightlife
The newly-expanded Barrio Central makes for a grungy addition to Laureles nightlife.
Sindominio Art Bar: Murals, Music and Alternative Nightlife
Sindominio is a brand-turned-bar on Vía Provenza that highlights the importance of everything local: from artists to products, music, and creativity.
Socializing in Medellín: A Spanish Survival Guide
In order to socialize in Medellín, Spanish isn’t enough. The secret lies in knowing the local slang. Here’s a quick Colombian Spanish survival guide.
Mansion Club presents Future Underground in association with Medellín Living
On Saturday April 25th, Mansion Club will be showcasing a new techno night – “Future Underground” with DJs Nick Bowman (UK) and Camilo Serna (Colombia).
El Banana Splitter: Nightlife That Welcomes Diversity
El Banana Splitter is an inclusive LGBT nightlife organization that has hosted theme parties every other month since June 2014.
Hellriegel Beer Company: Paisa-Inspired Brewpub Opens in Estadio
Founded by Stefan Hellriegel in Venezuela, Hellriegel Beer Company relocated to Medellín in 2014 and now offers four standard and several seasonal beers.
SkyBar: The Bar With A View in Parque Lleras
Located in the center of Parque Lleras, SkyBar is currently undergoing major rennovations, after which it is set to become one of the coolest places in Medellín.
Dancefree: Group Salsa and Bachata Lessons
Dancefree offers group salsa & bachata classes every evening from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Private lessons are also available.
La Cabaña del Recuerdo: Envigado’s Tango Bar
La Cabaña del Recuerdo is a little tango bar located in central Envigado. Musicians play live tango weekly, accompanied by the occasional singer.
The Poblado Pub Department’s Weekly Bar Crawl
Melissa’s bar crawling experience doing Medellín’s most popular pub crawl with the girls from Poblado Pub Department and a group of foreigners.
Rio Sur: Trendy Nightlife and Boutique Shopping
Rio Sur is the most recent mall to open on the upmarket stretch of Avenida Poblado. It’s known for housing some of the city’s top bars and clubs.
Medellín Beer Factory: The Kings of Beer
The Medellín Beer Factory offers a proper pub feel including wooden tables and chairs and over 55 types of domestic craft and imported beers.
Alta Gracia: From Coffee Shop to Chic Bar
Visit during the day and this is just another coffee shop in the area of Poblado but after 8pm Alta Gracia comes alive with house beats.
Undermerge and Medellín’s Underground Electronic Music Scene
Ryan finally makes it to a party in Prado Centro, where he learns about Undermerge, a group that does events in other parts of the city and country.
Calle 9+1: Hipsters and Electronic Music
Melissa takes you through one of Medellín’s hidden clubs, Calle 9+1, known for its emphasis on electronica.
La 33: A Nightlife District West of the River
Situated near Laureles and La 70 west of the Medellín river, La 33 is a nightlife district without the throngs of tourists and foreigners found in Poblado.
Mansion Club: A Small Club with Big House Tunes
If you’re serious about clubbing, the Mansion Club isn’t the type of venue to stand and look pretty. It’s a club for those who just want to move.
Underground Techno and House in Medellín
Medellín has a thriving underground techno and house scene, and has been dubbed the techno capital of South America.
Cameo Teatro Club: House Music Has a Home
Cameo Teatro Club offers the best house music with the finest DJs from across Colombia, producing an electric atmosphere that is hard to beat.
Centro Plazarte: A Cultural Exchange of Talents
Tucked away in a historic neighborhood, the Centro Plazarte in Medellín is a cultural center developed to revive the area with stunning Roman architecture.
DrinkAdvisor App: A Free Guide to Nightlife Around the World
The free DrinkAdvisor app claims to be the quickest and easiest way to find the best bars in over 200 cities.
LGBT Medellín: The Most Colorful Side of the City
Colombia has over 20 national organizations working for LGBT rights, and Medellín is rapidly becoming the most tolerant city in the country.
Spazio44: A Reggaeton Hotspot with Staying Power
Located in the basement of the Diez Hotel near Parque Lleras, Spazio44 is an upscale reggaeton club known for attracting pretty girls and top singers.
Attic Bar Loft: A Confluence of 50’s Art and NYC Design
Attic Bar Loft in CC Rio Sur is designed to evoke a 50s era New York City loft, both in the style of art on display and the overall industrial design.
Wednesday Nights at Envy
Wednesday nights at Envy feature live music. It’s a relaxed environment to go for drinks, grab some sushi and enjoy the nice weather.
Medellin Bar Crawl, Revived
Each bar offers a discount, a free shot, or both, and it’s a chance to get to know a handful of great places to hang out in the city, Bar Crawl or no.
El Suave: A More Spacious Place to Go Salsa Dancing
El Suave is a three-level salsa club on Calle Colombia, just east of Carrera 70.
Finding a Fun Fonda in Medellin
Fondas are the colorful places with old wooden tables and chairs, a place to eat and dance, even on the chairs you were sitting on during your meal.
Christmas Lights 2013: The DIY Approach
Dave takes us along on his DIY tour of the Christmas lights in Medellin, Colombia including which street foods you absolutely must try, and where.
Cervecería Libre: Medellin’s Newest Brewpub
Located in Barrio Colombia, Cervecería Libre is Medellin’s newest brewpub, featuring up to 12 beers on tap, and more by the bottle.
Thursday Nights at 3 Cordilleras Brewery
Established in 2008, 3 Cordilleras was the first brewery to break the mold in Medellin. Every Thursday night, they host a beer tasting and brewery tour.
Apóstol Beer Tasting and Brewery Tour
Every Thursday evening, the Apóstol Brewery in Sabaneta, south of Medellin hosts a beer tasting and brewery tour that’s open to the public.
3 Nights of Halloween in Medellín
Ryan celebrates Halloween in Medellin, paisa style, with three long nights out at various bars and clubs in the city.
Best Sports Bars in Medellín
Our list of the best sports bars in Medellin, including the popular Hooters and Shamrock in Parque Lleras, and lesser known Mahalo in Envigado.
Dejavu Discoteca on Las Palmas
My review of Dejavu Discoteca, a reggaeton club on Las Palmas highway in Medellin. It was featured in Dalmata’s 2011 “Dile A Tu Amiga” video.
Santo Baile’s Halloween Party
Last Friday night, I went to my first Halloween costume party of 2013 at the dance studios of Santo Baile.
Bogotá Beer Company: Leading the Microbrew Revolution in Colombia
Bogotá Beer Company is an English-style pub perfect for going out with friends after work, or to get some beers and grub while watching the local soccer.
Mixology Molecular Bar: A Novel Concept
Mixology Molecular Bar offers a interesting and novel line of cocktails developed by a Peruvian mixologist. It’s located on the 7th floor of Rio Sur Mall.
Beyoncé in Concert: A Review of the Mrs. Carter Tour
Jenny attends Beyoncé’s debut concert in Colombia at Estadio in Medellin, and compares the experience to seeing Madonna in 2012.
Club del Bigote: Moustaches and Whiskey at Bar Berlin
The Club del Bigote, or Moustache Club, had its second event last week, Noche de Whiskeys, a night of taste testing whiskeys at Bar Berlin in Poblado.
Palmahia Discoteca: Willie Colón in Concert
Palmahia Discoteca is a concert venue and club located in Itagui. This is my experience attending a concert by salsa legend Willie Colon.
Eco-Bar: The “Cheers” of the Paisa Nation
Philosophy, football and foreigners co-mingling with locals: that’s the foundation for the social scene known as Eco-Bar in the Poblado neighborhood.
Sinko Bar: Happy Hour with a View
Located on the 3rd floor of Rio Sur mall in Poblado, Sinko Bar is a popular happy hour spot, offering both indoor and outdoor seating.
Kukaramakara Club: Rock Out to Live Music at Rio Sur
Known for its live music on the weekends, the new Kukaramakara Club is located on the top floor of the Rio Sur mall in Poblado.
Patio del Tango: Medellin’s Legendary Tango Bar
Patio del Tango is one of Medellin Colombia’s best known tango bars, featuring live music and dance performances every weekend.
Salsa Casino at Cazadiana Club
Every two months, my salsa teacher Yamile and her dance school, Academia Baila Latino, host a Timba Party. It’s a chance for all the salsa casino students and dancers in Medellin to come together under one roof, and…
Delaire Sky Lounge
I discovered Delaire Sky Lounge during my visit to Medellin last August, and it has since become one of my favorite nightlife spots in the city.
Sixttina Discoteca
By all accounts, Sixttina Discoteca in the RIO SUR mall is one of the hottest clubs in town.
Salsa Dancing at Son Havana
In the last few weeks, I’ve been salsa dancing at Son Havana twice, and both times were a lot of fun. It’s now my favorite venue in Medellin, Colombia.
Los Alumbrados: Medellin’s Annual Christmas Light Display (2012)
December is my favorite month to be in Medellin. In addition to kicking off the Summer dry season, the entire valley is decorated with Los Alumbrados, the annual Christmas light display. In 2010, I experienced the…
The 10 Best Bars and Clubs in Medellín
Writer’s note: This is the fourth story in a monthly series on the “best of” Medellín and the surrounding area. To read the third story, click here. This post was updated on March 14, 2015. We do our best to keep…
New Year’s Eve, Paisa Style
Over the year’s I’ve come to appreciate spending Christmas with family in the States, but I try to make it a point to celebrate New Year’s Eve abroad. In 2011, I returned to Lima, where I’d watch fireworks explode at…
Lights…Christmas…Action!
This is part one of a two-part seres on the 2012 Christmas lights in Medellin. The second part, by Dave, will be posted after he’s had a chance to see them too. Last year, I missed it. I left on Dec. 6 for my brother’s…
A Scary Mellow Medellín Halloween
Falling in the middle of the week seemed to confuse people. Or maybe it just didn’t excite people. I went out on Saturday, Oct. 27, looking for people in costumes because Halloween was on a Wednesday so I was expecting…
Envy Rooftop Bar at the Charlee Hotel
Dave checks out the Envy rooftop bar at the new Charlee Hotel in Medellin, Colombia.
Imperium Discoteca: Come Back, We Miss You
A friend in town asked what there is to do on a Sunday night, and the first place that came to mind was Karma. But that’s in Barrio Colombia. Something in the Belén/Laureles area, something closer, would be better, we…
Son Havana: Cuban-Flavored Salsa in Colombia
The place was on my list, a club I planned to visit in the future, one of those I’ll-get-there-soon venues, soon being relative, of course. “Soon” for Son Havana came quicker than I expected. It was one of my last…
Karma Discoteca – A Sunday Evening Hotspot
Karma Discoteca is a popular spot in Barrio Colombia, and one of the best places to go out on a Sunday night in Medellin.
Party with the Paisas at La Caverna de Baco
Lucas received the call around 8 on Sunday night. It was his friend Katherine. We had just bought groceries, including booze, and since she wanted to come out, it was going to be consumed immediately. We just had to…
Halloween in Medellin (2011)
Three straight weekends. That’s Halloween in Medellín. The parties started the weekend before Halloween weekend. But I decided to forgo starting early. I was too busy. With Halloween on a Monday and “ley seca” in effect…
Dalí Rock Bar and Cafe
The place stands alone. It is not like most of the other bars and restaurants in Parque Lleras, which are clustered in the same area. But Dali Rock is not to be missed. I found Dali Rock on my first day in Medellín,…
Crashing the Antioquia Mia Fashion Show
The day seemed like any other, at first. But this is Medellín. Something fun is always lurking. I went to happy hour with a couple of friends and we split a bottle of Aguardiente. About an hour or so later, I returned…
A Surprisingly Good Time at a Hole In the Wall Bar
Saturday Night – Fonda de la 65 with San Juan (44) Many places that have been reviewed are joints that can be considered “hot spots”. Clubs where you can find attractive women, salsa dancing, fancy food that tastes OK,…
The End Discoteca
Editor’s Note: This discoteca has closed as of November 2013. A new one by the name of Cameo Theater Club has opened in the same location. The End Discoteca is another in a long string of new reggaeton-specific clubs to…
Recap: 3rd Annual Colombia Salsa Festival
In 2009, on my last weekend in Medellin, I spent two nights dancing at the 1st Colombian Salsa Festival. As luck would have it, I ran into Yamile, one of my dance teachers, at the door. I had a way better time as a…
Introducing Jack Magazine
Last Saturday, Jack Magazine made its official debut in Medellin via a launch party at Vanilla Discoteca in Poblado. Formerly known as The Arepa, the magazine started two years ago by Robin Finley of California has…
Prizma Discoteca
Prizma Discoteca is one of Medellin’s newest and hottest reggaeton clubs.
2011 Colombia Salsa Festival
Cali may be Colombia’s salsa capital, but Medellin is home to the country’s annual salsa festival (or Congress, as they’re called in Western countries). This weekend, from July 8 – 10, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana…
International Tango Festival & World Tango Championships
In June 1935, one of the most prominent figures in tango, Carlos Gardel, died in a plane crash in Medellin. In honor of Gardel, and the culture of tango, the city hosts an annual International Tango Festival every June.…
The Difference Between Academy Dancing and Club Dancing
So there is club dancing and there is Academy dancing. Let me explain the difference. I have been going to the clubs that everyone goes to on Tuesdays and Thursdays and have been feeling quite dejected since, afterall,…
Medellin Drinking Guide: Beer, Aguardiente, Rum and Wine
Nightlife is Medellin’s middle name. When the weekend rolls around, paisas know how to let loose, have a good time, and enjoy a drink….or five. To prepare you for mucha rumba (a lot of partying), here’s our drinking…
Discoteca Luxury – Reggaeton & Hip Hop Club
Discoteca Luxury is a popular reggaeton dance club in the Barrio Colombia area of Medellin.
Wisin y Yandel Tour Hits Medellin May 20, 2011
This Friday, the 2011 Wisin y Yandel tour hits Medellin, Colombia. The reggaeton superstars are expected to be well received in paisa-country, as their music always gets a good reaction in the discotecas. A few of their…
Parque Lleras: Medellin’s #1 Nightlife District
Every weekend, beautiful women flock to the bars and discotecas of Parque Lleras, the main Zona Rosa (nightlife district) in Medellin, Colombia.
Party Like A Paisa at Tutaina Tuturuma
Inside Tutaina Tuturuma, a Medellin discoteca (dance club) in the form of a mock Colombian pueblo.
Dulce Jesus Mio
Dulce Jesús Mío is a popular Medellin club designed to look and feel like a traditional Colombian pueblo.
Partying at Mia VIP Room (Discoteca)
A look inside MIA VIP Room, a modern Miami style discoteca (dance club) that plays crossover music in Barrio Colombia, Medellin.
Rumba at La Tienda
La Tienda is a popular discoteca (dance club) in Envigado, a suburb of Medellin, Colombia.
Playboy Party at Kukaramakara Club
Last October, Troy and I attended a Playboy party at one of my favorite Medellin clubs, Kukaramakara. We didn’t know what to expect, but I suggested we get there early as I’d made a reservation and I didn’t want them to…
Partying at Bendito Seas
Bendito Seas is a popular Medellin discoteca (dance club) in El Poblado. Ladies Night every Thursday.
Photo Essay: Christmas Lights in Medellin
I previously shared the lights of Envigado in December, so let’s head north to the display set up by Medellin along the river that runs through the city. This is the real epicenter of holiday decorations in the valley,…
The Chiva Party Bus From Hell
I’d been anticipating my first chiva ride for weeks, if not the several months since Ana had mentioned they’re popular in Medellin during December. As the holidays drew nearer, I saw more and more cruising past my…
Photo Essay: Envigado in December
“Wow” was my first reaction upon seeing Envigado in December. I’d never seen anything like the lights strung above the streets. Since all Colombian cities, towns, and pueblos feature a main square, it’s possible to have…
Myths and Legends Parade
The fireworks and early evening parties of November 30th unofficially kicked off a month of Christmas celebrations. One week later, the Myths and Legends parade (Desfile de Mitos y Leyendas) took place on the eve of the…
El Tibiri: Hot, Sweaty, Salsa!
El Tibiri is a popular, underground salsa bar on La 70 in Medellin.
Colombia Kicks Off December With A Bang!
Early last week, I got a tip from Mike that Envigado was going to be the epicenter of a big fireworks display to ring in December. I was already getting the impression that Christmas was a big deal in Medellin, but the…
La Ruana de Juana
La Ruana de Juana is a crossover discoteca (dance club) in the heart of Poblado, Medellin.
Happy Birthday 3 Cordilleras
The following is a guest post by The Art House – Medellin. It started off as a simple invite to a beer factory for some beer tasting, and ended in the drunk scoffing of whoppers at Burger King by midnight. It wasn’t…
Belly Dancing at Amarna Única
Amarna Única is an Egyptian-themed discoteca (dance club) in Barrio Colombia, Medellin.
Silvestre Dangond In Concert – La Tartamuda
Silvestre Dangond is a Colombian vallanato singer, and I’m a huge fan of his catchy songs. He’s playing a concert tonight (November 5, 2010) in Medellin at Palmahia.
Halloween in Medellin: El Pub, El Cuervo, & Babylon (Las Palmas)
I was already familiar with the clubs in Las Palmas thanks to Ladies Night at Babylon, so when I got word that it was the place to be for Halloween in Medellin, I sprung into action. Ok, I actually slept much of the day…
Halloween at Mango’s
Last Saturday night, on the eve of Halloween, I headed to Mango’s Discoteca with a group from the International House Medellin (where I lived back in August). We arrived before the doors opened, which worked out well…
Wednesday Nights at B-Lounge
Wednesday nights at B Lounge are Ladies Night. This popular Medellin discoteca (dance club) is located in Poblado, near Parque Lleras.
An Afternoon of Hardcore at Libido Bar
When I think of Carrera 70, I think of a street filled with salsa joints, however Libido Bar offers up anything but your typical Colombian crossover music. On a Saturday afternoon back in August, Troy and I joined…
Celebrating My 34th Birthday
At midnight on September 25, 2010, I rang in my 34th birthday in Medellin, dancing in a near-empty crossover club in Bello, the town just north of Medellin (but still connected via the metro line). I didn’t mind the…
Ladies Night at Babylon Discoteca
Thursday nights at Babylon Discoteca are ladies night. This dance club is one of the most popular in Medellin, Colombia.
Indiana Bar
For reasons I still don’t fully understand, almost every disco in Medellin, if not all of Colombia, requires a theme. After the opening fireworks for La Feria de las Flores, it began to rain, so I suggested to Troy and…
Fireworks Open the 2010 Feria de las Flores
On July 30th, Troy and I headed to Parque de las Luces for the fireworks display to kick of the 2010 Feria de las Flores. Medellin’s biggest festival and street party of the year is a 10-day event, though the parades…
Daddy Yankee in Concert – September 11
Update: Soon after publishing this post, the concert was canceled. I heard two different reasons. First, the Ticket Express girl who sold me the tickets said that it was due to poor sales. Second, a friend said he read…
The 14th Annual International Jazz Festival
Despite being Colombia’s second largest city, I still see Medellin as more village than metropolis, however the steady stream of festivals in the city continue to remind me my perspective is over-romanticized. This…
Lido Theater
In the center of Medellin there is a small theater called Lido that I have come to love. It has free events every night with live music, dancing, theater, and I believe even movies. If you want a little culture for…
LA 33
On a truly average Saturday night, my friends and I wanted a real Colombian experience. I asked one of my Paisa friends to take us anywhere but Poblado. We ended up on LA 33 in Laureles. I had seen the bars and clubs…
Friday Night at Arte Vivo
I spent this last Friday night at a hip little bar called ArteVivo. I was so nicely invited by Felipe. My friend Mario came along, and we were really excited to check it out. We got to the bar around 10pm. There was a…
My Goodbye Party At La Rumbantela
The festivities of the Salsa Congress concluded, I spent the next few nights seeing friends for the last time – going out to dinner with Milena and visiting Alejandra at her new apartment for home-cooked pasta…
Colombia Salsa Congress: Dancing With The Stars
I had so much fun my first night at the 2009 Colombia Salsa Congress that I was looking forward to a return visit with Astrid on my last Sunday night in the country. We arrived at the starting time, yet they were still…
Feria de las Flores Kickoff
For the first day of the Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival), a few new friends and I went to Parque de los Pies Descalzos to watch fireworks and see a live concert. The fireworks were great, when I was watching the…
The 2009 Colombia Salsa Congress
As I continued to try to squeeze every drop of enjoyment out of my time left in Medellin, I decided to check out Grupo Gale July 11th. They had performed the prior night at Colombia’s 2009 Salsa Congress party, and were…
My Final Friday Night In Colombia
I returned to Cien Fuegos on my final Friday night in Colombia for one last salsa lesson. It being the night geared toward more advanced salsaleros, the combination taught was rather intricate. I laughed when I saw the…
Let’s Go Salsa Dancing
As my time in Medellin was drawing to a close, I wanted to make the most of the salsa dancing opportunities. Earlier in the week, I’d gone out to El Eslabon Prendido for the last time, though I didn’t get to dance too…
The Arepa Crew Hits Open Sky Lounge
I ventured to Open Sky Lounge last week in Parque Lleras to see Robin again, and pick up my personal copy of the July Arepa, featuring my handy guide to Medellin buses. It was a humor piece I’d been meaning to write for…
Friday Night at Cien Fuegos
Last Friday night, I had made plans to go dancing with Sirley at Cien Fuegos. It was long overdue, and we posted an invite to the Medellin Couchsurfing group to see who else would be interested. People began arriving at…
Medellin Living Party
Maira entrusted her apartment to me while she caught up with family and friends during the summer break, so I figured it was party time. Well, it took a nudge from friend Martin to motivate me, but I’d been thinking…
The Last Salsa Lessons and More Practice
My group lessons wrapped up two weeks ago as the dance studio is closing for Summer recess. Because I had prepaid for 8 hours, I decided to take a private lesson to get my money’s worth rather than squeeze in another…
Tango Show at Teatro Lido
Visiting Teatro Lido for a free tango show during Medellin’s annual tango festival.
The Arepa Launch Party at Melodie Lounge
The Arepa is the new, free English-language guide to culture and nightlife in Medellin. Robin Finley made the move from California to Colombia a few months ago, and immediately set about creating an entertaining monthly…
Jesusa’s Birthday Bash (+ Belly Dancing)
Jesusa, the very first Medellin couchsurfer I met back in February, celebrated her birthday this past Friday night. It was held at the new apartment of Kevin, a fellow American and couchsurfer extraordinaire. Finally, I…
Thursday Nights – Live Salsa at Cien Fuegos and G-Bar
Last Thursday, I answered the siren call of a Lelayna, a UK couchsurfer excited to go out salsa dancing. I had a sense she’d be good from her CS profile, but she turned out to be far better than just “good.” I invited…
3 Cordilleras Brewery
Visiting 3 Cordilleras Brewery on a Thursday night in Medellin.
Blue, Rum, Rock, and Roommates
Last Friday night was the first time me, Martin, and Maira all went out for a night on the town. Maira chose Blue, and since Martin hadn’t been there either, and I like to take a break from salsa now and then in favor…
My First Death Metal Show
Awhile back, Martin had mentioned our friend David from Mexico went to rock concerts here in Medellin. I enjoy live shows, and thought it would be fun to attend one with David since he seemed to be “in the know.” I…
Celebrating Brazil at Teatro Matacandelas
Attending a Brazilian night at Teatro Matacandelas, including capoeira and musical performances.
Stepping Up the Salsa Practice
Lessons in a dance studio are not enough to become proficient at salsa. I learned this back in Washington, DC circa 2006. You need to practice, at least once a week, and preferably more in the beginning. So with that…
Rum + Salsa + Friends @ Octavia = Fun
Paragliding and bus adventures under our belts, I invited Clint and Martin to join me, Alejandra, and her two friends for a night of dancing. The destination was ladies choice, which worked out well as it was one of my…
Salsa Dancing At El Eslabon Prendido
Salsa dancing at El Eslabon Prendido is one of the top nightlife experiences in Medellin, Colombia. Live salsa bands are featured every Tuesday.
Cien Fuegos – A Salsa Fool’s Errand
A friend recently recommended a salsa bar called Cient Fuegos for its free dance lessons on Thursday nights. Last Thursday, Martin joined me a mission to find the bar, the address being near Parque Lleras. The taxi…
Photo of the Week – Street Ads
There is no shortage of advertising posted around Medellin highlighting upcoming events. I thought this duo of posters presented the perfect contrast of opportunities: a youth-oriented Saturday night with classic and…
3 Barrios On a Saturday Night
A reggaeton concert was set to occur in Parque Envigado last Saturday, which Martin and I learned about when we happened across a giant stage set up the night before. I rallied people to meet us there at 8 pm, only to…
Nightlife in Envigado
Before this weekend kicks off tomorrow, I better catch you up on the last one. I had been meaning to check out the nightlife in my backyard, Envigado, since I moved into Maira´s apartment, but usually ended up in…
After the Game – El Eslabon Prendido and Art
With the home team victorious, I joined Adriaan and Nicholas for a taxi ride back to Centro. Once there, we went to El Eslabon Prendido (see Nightlife page for address) for a post-game drink. I had recently learned…
A Rainy, Pre-Easter Saturday Night
Clint messaged me to say he was heading back to Poblado a few nights after our last adventure, and since I had recovered in that time, I met up with him in Parque Poblado along with Martin, my roommate, and his visiting…
Opening Night at El Pub de Octavia
Review of opening night at El Pub de Octavia near Parque Lleras in Medellin.
La Octava Bar
La Octava is a small but popular rock bar in Parque Lleras, Medellin’s main nightlife district.
A Friday Night Return to Antioquia University
Every weekend is an effortless new adventure living in Medellin, and I imagine in any country foreign on your own. This past Friday, I joined my roommate Martin, and David (Mexico), for a visit across town to Amu’s…
Salsa Show Featuring World Champions
Last Thursday I met up with Joe (Australia) and Sirley from Couchsurfing for a salsa show at the University of Medellin. The headlining couples were from Cali, and both pairs were world champions. Carlo Acrosalsa y…
Friday Night Birthday Party
I think of Mondays as my chance to highlight the cool new bar or club I visited over the weekend, however this past Friday was a much more personal and family-oriented experience. I met Sarah a little over a week ago…
Friday Night Salsa
Friday night I went out with Martin, Diana, David and a few others to a salsa club near the Estadio metro station. I would give the name except I saw none at the entrance (update: it’s called El Tibiri). It was a small,…
Blue
Blue is a popular rock club near Parque Lleras in Medellin.
Trilogia Bar
Trilogia Bar is actually a discoteca (dance club) that features a live band on a rotating stage. One of the best nightlife spots in Medellin.
Cribs – Medellin Style
The nightlife in Medellin is amazing, at least as far as this gringo is concerned. And this past Saturday, I was invited to a birthday party at Paul’s apartment in El Poblado. Paul is the American owner of Casa Kiwi…
Couchsurfing In Medellin
Couchsurfing, for those who have yet to discover it, is an online social network geared toward travelers. The network allows you to post a profile and either off to host a traveler in your home, contact someone while…
Mango’s Discoteca
Mango’s Discoteca is one of the largest, most popular dance clubs in Medellin, Colombia. Sample the local nightlife at this unique disco.