The Rancho Texas Country & Western night has been a staple of Lanzarote entertainment for almost as long as we’ve lived here. But despite that, we hadn’t been, until just recently.
You might wonder why Lanzarote has a Rancho “Texas.” The answer is that historically, many Lanzaroteños left the island in the 18th and 19th centuries to find their fortune in America. In fact, the town of San Antonio in Texas was founded by islanders and Lanzarote maintains strong links with them.
But back to the night out – the short version is that it is excellent, and super value for money!
Here’s the longer version: The action takes place in a large building at the back of the theme park – if you’re driving, go past the main car park, a little way up the hill, and you’ll see another car park to your left, with the building on your right. We were greeted by some of the cast members, who welcome us to the event, and then we were taken inside and seated at long tables. We were a six, so we had our own table, but if you’re a couple or a four, you may have others on your table. All the food and unlimited wine, beer, sangria and soft drinks are included. You’re encourage to yell “Yeeha!” when you need more drinks. It’s worth mentioning that two of our party were driving, and they wanted zero alcohol beer, and we were just able to go to the bar for those, with no charge.
The lighting and sound system are absolutely superb, and the performance starts very soon after everyone has had drinks served. My only complaint was that it was very hot in the venue, despite large air conditioners dotted around the place. Calamity Jane explained how the evening was going to work, and then the music started with the show band playing a few numbers, and being joined by various cast members who performed for us. The entertainment was genuinely good, with dancers, a stunning fire performance, rope swinging and bull whip cracking, all interspersed with great music, sung well. The singers, dancers and musicians are all very good at their craft.
The entertainment was interrupted for our food to be served, and huge trollies were wheeled out, allowing us to be called up each section to go and grab our food. The food is basic but well cooked, and served hot – racks of ribs, roast chicken, (chicken nuggets for kids) fries, baked potatoes and salads. It was better than I expected and there was more than enough on the plate.
After eating, we were able to enjoy the bull riding machine, and we had a chance to buy cowboy hats and souvenirs from the small shop, as well as grab copies of the photos that had been taken when we arrived.
We had a chance to do some line dancing, and then we were all encouraged to get onto the floor for a boogie. The show then moved into a rousing finale, before it was time to head home. We left buzzing with that feeling of a great night out, and one we plan to enjoy again in the future.
Transport to Rancho Texas in Puerto del Carmen is available from all the resorts.
You can book tickets online here: Rancho Texas Country & Western Night.
