The Oaxacan nights carry the mark of Prehispanic history that infects us all.

The various roads to the party can quickly take you from the tranquil backwaters of mezcal and marimba sonatas that you will find at the Bar y Café Jardín, all the way to the refuges of wild elation.

Now that you’re ready for a good time, there are plenty of options, but it will depend on the level of euphoria, your abilities, musical tastes and physical conditioning.

If your objective is to soak in the culture and traditions of Oaxaca, you can attend the shows that depict the Guelaguetza which you will find at the Casa de Cantera, the Hotel Monte Albán, or every Friday at the Camino Real Hotel.

Then there are those whose tastes tend toward the bohemian and enjoying a cold beer or glass of wine while mellowing out to jazz or trova.

If this is your frame of mind there are places like Nueva Babel, located at 224 Porfirio Díaz; Decano at 210 Porfirio Díaz

If you are the type who prefers hot and rhythmic Latin Dancing then you’re looking for Candela located at 413 Murguia; or La Tentación, just a few blocks West.

Alternatively, try El Sagrario located at 120 Valdivieso.

For those who like dancing to pulsating techno there are numerous great choices such as Tapas & Pisto Bar at 403 Alcalá; and High in colonia Reforma.

The Central hosts rarely-seen live music acts and independent films and uses it's wall space as an alternative gallery for celebrated and unheard-of artists alike. Extremely cool during the week, with cinema on Wednesdays and live jazz on Thursdays, but then Oaxaca-style networking fades into a club and dance venue at the weekends.

Rockers can also find something within this rhythmic river of Oaxacan nights. They will enjoy the Divina Bar located at 104 Gurrión.

Last but not least, for those who would prefer a more heterogenic space with a more eclectic music, choose from the Miguel Cabrera Street fantastically famous Casa del Mezcal across from the Mercado 20 de Noviembre; La Farola three streets from the Mercado 20 de Noviembre; or the Freebar at 100 Matamoros.

The night is always young in Oaxaca and there is always room for one more participant in this sport we call la vida nocturna.