Argentine Folklore Music and Dancing

(Photo by @eggar)
Although Tango is a folkloric music from Argentina, what is generally considered Folklore to the locals is traditional music and dances, mostly from the North and the Littoral regions of the country. Some of the more popular styles of Folklore, performed and danced at folklore parties called peñas, are Chamame, Chacarera, Carnavalito and Malambo.
Chamame is a typical music and dance from Paraguay and the littoral provinces of Entre Rios, Formosa, Santa Fe, Chaco and Misiones. The origin of this music is Guarani with European influences, such as the incorporation of the German bandoneon. It is similar to a Paraguayan Polka but with a stronger beat and may be cheerful or sad.
Chacarera is typical in the Northern region of the country, in the Province of Santiago del Estero and Tucuman mainly. It has afro-argentine influences and traditionally includes a formation made up of a guitar, a type of bass drum called bombo leguero and the violin. Chacareras are generally sung, in both Spanish and Qechua.
Carnavalito also comes from the Northern region o the country although mainly form Jujuy, Salta, Catamarca and Tucumán. It is a typical Andean music and dance, and is played with the quena and charango, both traditional instruments of the region.
The Malambo is a typical dance that originated in the Pampean region and is carried out by men who display their ability through their footwork and their skill with knives and boleadoras (a kind of sling used by the Patagonia natives and gauchos). The rhythmic music is usually played with a type of drum called Bombo Leguero and a guitar, although instruments vary depending on the area of the country.
For those who want a peak at Argentine Folklore, we recommend you go to one of the following venues where peñas and live shows are staged:
Peña del Colorado: This Peña in Palermo serves traditional food and stages live shows by an array of performers as well as hosting folklore dances for the community. From midnight onwards they also encourage the diners to play spontaneous guitar music. (They offer the guitars). Open every day from 10pm-4am. Güemes 3657, Palermo. 4822-1038. info@lapeniadelcolorado.com.
Los Cardones Peña Folclorica: Also in Palermo, this popular venue offers traditional dinner, live shows, peñas and folklore dancing lessons. J.L Borges 2180 , Palermo. 4777-1112.
La Paila: Also in Palermo is La Paila, a great place for homemade regional food from the North and great live folklore shows. Open Mon-Fri from 7pm-closing and Sat-Sun from midday onwards. Costa Rica, Buenos Aires 1414, Palermo. 4878-2688, lapaila@folkloreclub.com.ar.
Peña de la Ribera: This popular Peña is in the outskirts of the city in Olivos and is held every Saturday. They have an lovely outdoor patio where the summer events take place and they serve empanadas and typical sandwiches (choripan, bondiola..) Currently there are carnival celebrations being held and also open dance lessons at 10.30pm. J. Diaz de Solis 2289, Olivos.
Feria de Mataderos: This popular fair held on Sundays in Mataderos showcases and sells all things typical. Folklore shows and dancing are also a very important part of its charm and popularity. The fair is on Lisandro de la Torre Avenue. To get there, we suggest you coordinate transport with the hotel, as you will have to go through some dodgy areas to arrive.
This Week in Buenos Aires
Wednesday

(Photo by matualonso)
The day is perfect for some fun on the water. Smile on Sea offers special sailing trips that depart from Puerto Madero, and Soul Trips offer a similar service in Tigre although on a motorboat with drinks and snacks.
In the evening head to Mystique After Office for an early Carnaval Fest starting at 7pm. Sarmiento 1662, San Nicolás.
If late night partying is more to your liking, then Kika´s This is Ibiza party may be just for you. Honduras 5339, Palermo.
Thursday

(Photo by slaff)
Take advantage of the good weather and head to the Planetarium where you can join the outdoor Parks and Monuments Tour (starting at 10.30am) or the Parks and Museums Tour (starting at 2.30pm), both done on electric bicycles. The tours last 2 hours each, cost 70 pesos, and are carried out in Spanish, Portuguese and English. Please note that you must be at the Planetarium 30 minutes before the tour with an ID to certify that you are 18 or older. Planetario Galileo Galillei-Av. Sarmiento and Belisario Roldán, Palermo.
For a unique evening, book your place at Fierro Hotel’s Thursday wine tasting and sample some great Argentine wines, chosen by the president of the Argentine Sommelier Association Andres Rosberg and in-house Sommelier Martin Bruno. Tastings cost 25 USD per person and are limited to 7 people. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6800.
At 9pm Dancing Mood will be presenting their new record, Non Stop, at the Centro Cultural Konex. Sarmiento 3131, Abasto. 4864-3200.
Friday
At 2pm the San Martin Theatre Contemporary Ballet will be staging the 8 Estaciones Ballet (8 Seasons), a show that alternates each of Vivaldi´s 4 Seasons with the Piazzola versions. Av. Corrientes 1530, Downtown. 0800-333-5254.
Head to the Casa Nacional del Bicentenario where a special exhibit showcasing the transformation of Buenos Aires through images and documents is being held until the end of February. Opening Hours: Tue-Sun from 3pm-9pm. Riobamba 985, Montserrat.
In the evening head to Notorious for the Friday jazz jam starting at 12pm. Av. Callao 966, Recoleta. 4813-6888.
Long Weekend

(Photo by puroticorico)
On Saturday at 6pm, renowned folkloric singer El Chaqueño Palavecino will be staging a live show at Club GEBA. Av. Cnel. Marcelino E. Freyre and Av. Dorrego Saavedra.
On Saturday at 8pm the Colón Theatre Philharmonic will be staging a free show at Parque Centenario in Caballito. Tickets must be picked up in advance on Thursday the 23rd, and Friday the 24th from 11am-7pm at Casa de la Cultura on Av. De Mayo 575. There are 1600 available tickets, and each person will get 2.
The last carnival festivities will be held during Saturday and Sunday. A series of street parades called murgas, a carnival tradition including rhythmic drums and costumes, will be celebrating around town starting 7pm. In Palermo they will be setting up at Darwin between Honduras and Gorriti and in San Telmo they will be at San Juan and Tacuarí. A map with other murga locations is available here.
On Sunday at 7pm a musical about the Argentine flag will be held at the Planetarium in Palermo. Av. Sarmiento and Belisario Roldán.
Monday is a one time national holiday as the country celebrates the bicentennial anniversary of the creation of the Argentine flag.
Buenos Aires Nightlife on Carnival Weekend

(Photo by olmo calvo)
Friday 17th
Throughout Carnival weekend a series of street parades called murgas, a carnival tradition including rhythmic drums and costumes, will be celebrating around town starting 7pm. In Palermo they will be setting up at Darwin between Honduras and Gorriti and in San Telmo they will be at San Juan and Tacuarí. A map with other murga locations is available here.
Sandino Bar will be hosting a Back to the 80´s party starting at 11.30pm. Bolivar 624, San Telmo.
Babel Orkesta- This original group merges sounds from different cultures and forms a lively identity of its own. Their colorful and playful aesthetic is perfect to start getting into the Carnival mood. Ciudad Cultural Konex- Sarmiento 3131, Abasto- 4864-3200 – 12.30pm
Saturday 18th
La Boca Milonga at Vuelta de Rocha- starting at 6pm a special milonga featuring Adriana Varela, Max Van de Voorde and Solange Acosta will be held at the Vuelta de Rocha in La Boca.
Babel Orkesta- This original group merges sounds from different cultures and forms a lively identity of its own. Their colorful and playful aesthetic is perfect to start getting into the Carnival mood. Ciudad Cultural Konex- Sarmiento 3131, Abasto- 4864-3200 – 12.30pm
Throughout Carnival weekend a series of street parades called murgas, a carnival tradition including rhythmic drums and costumes, will be celebrating around town starting 7pm. In Palermo they will be setting up at Darwin between Honduras and Gorriti and in San Telmo they will be at San Juan and Tacuarí. A map with other murga locations is available here.
Sunday 19th
La Bomba del Tiempo- This percussion orchestra has gained quite a reputation for their upbeat shows full of rhythm. They will be staging a show at 7pm in the Anfiteatro Parque de la Costa, Tigre.
Fiesta Bubamara- These parties have become famous in Buenos Aires. Balkan music and lots of upbeat dancing are on the carnival weekend menu starting at midnight! Groove, Av. Sta Fe 4389, Palermo.
Grito de Carnival en Buenos Aires- Those looking for serious Brazilian dancing are sure to find what they’re looking for at the Carnival party that will be held in Sala Siranush starting 11pm. Armenia 1353, Palermo. 4775-2678.
Throughout Carnival weekend a series of street parades called murgas, a carnival tradition including rhythmic drums and costumes, will be celebrating around town starting 7pm. In Palermo they will be setting up at Darwin between Honduras and Gorriti and in San Telmo they will be at San Juan and Tacuarí. A map with other murga locations is available here.
Monday 20th
La Bomba del Tiempo- This percussion orchestra has gained quite a reputation for their upbeat shows full of rhythm. They will be playing at Ciudad Cultural Konex 7pm and then continuing the party late into the night. . Ciudad Cultural Konex- Sarmiento 3131, Abasto- 4864-3200.
Throughout Carnival weekend a series of street parades called murgas, a carnival tradition including rhythmic drums and costumes, will be celebrating around town starting 7pm. In Palermo they will be setting up at Darwin between Honduras and Gorriti and in San Telmo they will be at San Juan and Tacuarí. A map with other murga locations is available here.
Fiesta Clandestina Especial Carnaval- This carnival foam party will guarantee a whole lot of fun with available costumes and surprise live acts. The party starts at 11pm at Groove. Av. Santa Fe 4389, Palermo.
Fiesta de Carnaval Mistico- Carnival festivities will also be taking center stage at Niceto Club starting at 11.45pm. Humboldt 1356 – Palermo.
Tuesday
Throughout Carnival weekend a series of street parades called murgas, a carnival tradition including rhythmic drums and costumes, will be celebrating around town starting 7pm. In Palermo they will be setting up at Darwin between Honduras and Gorriti and in San Telmo they will be at San Juan and Tacuarí. A map with other murga locations is available here.
Buenos Aires Shakespeare Festival

(Photo by tonynetone)
Throughout the week, until Sunday the 19th, the city will be celebrating the famous English playwright at the 2nd annual Shakespeare festival. Free activities including calligraphy lessons, performances, workshops, and more will be held in different venues and theatres around the city. Additionally there will be a recreation of a medieval village in Buenos Aires Polo Circo (on Combate de los Pozos and Juan de Garay streets) where visitors will be able to enjoy Elizabethan designs, archery, dancing, cuisine, amongst other attractions. Information on activities and theatre productions during the Shakespeare Festival are available here.
Carnival Festivities in Argentina

(Photo by Paula Silva)
Brazil is the first destination that comes to mind when Carnival season arrives, however colorful festivities take place in most South American countries. Since carnival weekend is coming up we share with you some of the most effervescent alternatives in Argentina.
Gualeguaychu, Entre Rios: The Gualeguaychu Carnaval festival, in the province of Entre Rios to the North of Buenos Aires, is the most popular in Argentina. It is similar to the Brazilian Carnival and also includes a spectacular parade with choreographies, and fancy costumes.
Corrientes: In the Corrientes province, which limits both with Entre Rios and Brazil, the carnival is also celebrated with big productions and a lot of street dancing. Some of the best places to go for the Corrientes festivities are Paso de los Libres (where there is a bridge connecting to Brazil), Goya, Santo Tomé, Esquina, Monte Caseros, Curuzú Cuatiá and Empedrado.
Salta: The Salta carnival is a showy display of dancing and feathers but also of indigenous traditions related to harvest rituals. Water is one of the protagonists of the Salta festivities as it represents purification. It is not uncommon to end up soaking wet from unexpected water filled balloons and buckets. In the Calchaquí Valley, after the water games and street festivities, “carnavaleros” gather in someone’s house to have abundant lunches. In the evening dancing takes place at parties where flour and confetti is thrown. Finally, the carnival is buried on a Sunday. A hole is dug in the ground and the pullcay, a doll that symbolizes carnival, is buried whilst people sing, dance and cry.
Jujuy: The Jujuy and the Bolivian carnival have a lot in common. In the Quebrada de Humahuaca there is a predominant representation of demons that animate the festival. Costumes including masks with horns are accessorized with necklaces made of fruits, onions, and goat cheese, amongst other edibles. These demons also carry traditional instruments and go around the city enticing the public to dance and participate. Finally the carnaval is buried in the afternoon on the outskirts of the village. Since they only like participation from those who are culturally linked with the celebration it is difficult to learn where the burial will occur. At the burial they dance and reverence the symbolic devil, surrounded by offerings of fruits, coca leaves, and chicha. Once the burial is finished those dressed up as demons quickly change back into their clothes.
In other Argentine provinces there are also Carnival festivities, but not to the same degree of those previously mentioned. In Buenos Aires it is common to run into murgas, learn more about them here.
This Week in Buenos Aires
Monday

(Photo by capitu)
Indulge in decadent 5 O clock tea at Las Violetas in Almagro and then dance those cakes off at La Bomba del Tiempo, a percussion orchestra that has become one of the local absolute musts. Centro Cultural Konex, Sarmiento 3131, Abasto, 4864-3200.
Tuesday

(Photo by Edgardo Schener)
In the spirit of Valentines Day why not get to know the city from a romantic viewpoint? Smile on Sea offers a special romantic sailing trips that depart from Puerto Madero, and Soul Trips offer a similar service in Tigre although on a motorboat with candlelight, drinks and snacks.
In the evening don’t miss out on the special Valentines Day tasting menu at Hernan Gipponi Restaurant. More information here. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6820. info@hgrestaurant.com.ar.
Wednesday

(Photo by photoAtlas)
Take a Fileteado Porteño Tour and discover the typical style of painting associated with Buenos Aires. The tour starts at 1.30pm in the Abasto area and moves to San Telmo either by bikes or public transport. It includes a snack in San Telmo and gives you the chance to try out the technique yourself! More information here.
In the evening head to Italian trattoria Ill Ballo del Mattone for some pastas and jazz, swing and bossa nova music! Gorriti 5950, Palermo. 47768648. reservas@ilballo.tv
Thursday

(Photo by iggykaser)
The Museo de Arte Decorativo is showcasing a special exhibit on Russian Icons and art from Tibet. Additionally the museums marvelous collection of European and Oriental paintings and sculptures, the great hall and the impressive staircase make it well worth a visit. Av.del Libertador 1902, Recoleta. 4801-8248. Tuesdays to Sundays from 2.00pm to 7.00pm. Guided tours in English are available every day at 2pm.
For a unique evening, book your place at Fierro Hotel’s Thursday wine tasting and sample some great Argentine wines, chosen by the president of the Argentine Sommelier Association Andres Rosberg and in-house Sommelier Martin Bruno. Tastings cost 25 USD per person and are limited to 7 people. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6800.
Friday

(Photo by gnackgnackgnack)
A visit to the ethnographic museum is a great way to learn more about the country’s indigenous identity and ethnic background. Opening hours: Tue-Fri 1pm-7pm, Sat-Sun 3pm-7pm Sat-Sun from 3pm-7pm. Moreno 350, San Telmo, 4345-8196/97.
Later on stop by Centro Cultural Konex for a unique experience in the dark. Dialogo en la Oscuridad is an international exhibit where the senses are rediscovered. The public is guided in absolute darkness through different scenarios and learns to perceive every day life in a different way. Open Tue-Sun 5pm-10pm. Sarmiento 3131, Abasto. 4864 3200.
Saturday and Sunday

(Photo by ARACELOTA)
The Italian Filarmonica Clown will be staging Amleto Avvisato Mezzo Salvato at the Shakespeare festival starting 8.30pm at Buenos Aires Polo Circo. Combate de los Pozos 1700, corner. Av. Garay, Capital Federal. More information here.
On Saturday evening, starting at 6.30pm a special milonga featuring Adriana Varela, Max Van de Voorde and Solange Acosta will be held at the Vuelta de Rocha in La Boca.
Don´t miss the festive Bubamara party being held at Groove on Sunday. Balkan music and lots of upbeat dancing are on the carnaval weekend menu! Av. Sta Fe 4389, Palermo. Sunday starting at middnight.
Top Tango Venues in Buenos Aires

(Photo by Christian Haugen)
If you’re visiting Buenos Aires chances are tango is on your agenda. Of course due to the popularity of this music genre and dance there are innumerable places to go to for live music, dancing, and tango shows. We’ve put some of them together to point you in the right direction.
Tango Shows
Complejo Tango: Complejo Tango is one of the most popular tango shows in the city and for good reason. They offer superb tango as part of their show, and also a tango lesson prior to it, plus, the food is good. Av. Belgrano 2608, Buenos. Aires. 4941-1119. reservas@complejotango.com.ar
Rojo Tango: This stunning and intimate show is set in the flamboyant Faena Hotel and is one of the best, albeit pricy, tango shows in the city. For those who like elaborate costumes and choreographies, then this is the place. Faena Hotel & Universe. Martha Salotti 445, 5787-1536.
Piazzolla Tango: A treasure cove of mischief and distorted fantasies, the basement of the Pasaje Guemes, with its cabaret, theatre and restaurant, has charmed its eclectic public during the 1920′s throughout the 50′s. Now a days Piazzolla Tango offers the chance to visit the beautiful interior of the cabaret, theatre and restaurant whilst serving dinner and staging great tango shows! San Martin 170 // Florida 165, downtown. 4344 8201.
Milongas
Confitería La Ideal: This beautiful confiteria is one of the oldest in the city. Built in the early 1900’s it is graced with high ceilings, vitrauxs, chandeliers, a marble staircase and an old lift reminiscent of a past magnificence. The gorgeous coffee house is also one of the nicest places to go for tango lessons, live tango shows and milongas. Suipacha 380, Downtown, 5265-8069
Salon Canning: For those who are looking for a more authentic and local tango experience, then an evening at Salon Canning should definitely be on the agenda. This Palermo centered milonga is THE place where local tango veterans dance the night away. Scalabrini Ortiz 1331, Palermo. 4826-8351
La Catedral: This somewhat grungy alternative tango hall in Almagro is popular amongst the younger more laid back tango crowds which start the night early with a tango class and then dance the night away into the early dawn. The ample space, the mismatched chairs, the Carlos Gardel shrine add to its appeal whiles its vegetarian restaurant is loved by some and hated by others (eating can always happen else where at the nearby Pierino for example, a family restaurant owned by Italians). All in all, a great place to take a tango lesson and dance all night afterwards in a laid back and fun atmosphere. Sarmiento 4006, Almagro. 155-325-1630.
Live Tango Music
Los 36 Billares: This traditional cafe on Av. De Mayo is an old city treasure that regularly stages tango shows for its local and foreign guests. Also close by is the famous Cafe Tortoni, where shows are also occasionally staged. Av. De Mayo 1265, Downtown, 5353-6670 info@los36billares.com.
El Bar de Roberto: Gardel and other tango-passionates frequented this traditional bar, which was bought by a Spaniard from Asturias in the 1930s. Now a days it’s still kept as in the day, with the same bottles adorning the walls and late night live tango sessions to charm the intimate and usually crowded bar. Bulnes 331, Almagro. 4862-0415
Orquesta Tipica Fernandez Fierro: This youthful and energetic tango orchestra delivers an alternative tango sound at many local popular venues. They are well worth taking into consideration both for the tango and the cool vibe of their shows.
Outdoors
If watching tango dancers out in the fresh air is more to your liking, then you can find talent on San Telmo’s Plaza Dorrego on Sundays. You can also find milongas and tango lessons at La Glorieta in the Belgrano neighborhood where a more local crowd gather to dance under a charming arbor.
Valentines Day Menu at Hernán Gipponi Restaurant
Valentines day is coming up and romantic spirits will surely be looking for dining options in the city. Hernán Gipponi will be offering a special couples menu for the occasion that will include a 7-step tasting menu with complimentary welcome cocktails, water, coffee and a glass of Chandon rosé each. See the full menu below and don´t forget to book your place!! Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6820. info@hgrestaurant.com.ar.



