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Nobody nails the weekend’s can’t-miss nightlife like Night+Day. But what if you’re feeling feisty mid-week? Forget about quiet evenings curled up with your Kindle—we’re giving you prime picks for Weeknight Fun around the world. Hump day will never be the same!
Best Weeknight Fun in....
Best Weeknight Fun
Madrid
Cuartel del Conde Duque Entire west side of Calle del Conde Duque, 91.588.5834 esmadrid.com/condeduque/
The Draw: Movies, theatre, and concerts in historic surroundings most nights of the week.
The Scene: Beyond gigantic bronze doors lies a crumbling nineteenth century barracks that’s been converted into a cultural center. The spacious courtyard hosts concerts of traditional and contemporary Spanish music, as well as the occasional play. A film series showcases cinematic classics, including some in English. Times for special events vary but generally take place early in the evening. Check the website for listings. Hot Tip: Most events are free, but arrive early because there’s usually a long line an hour before opening. Tickets for pay events must be booked well in advance.
The Draw: An eclectic mix of music and art events every night of the week. The Scene: This rather nondescript, bare brick bar has a small dance floor in the back that rocks every weeknight until early morning. Why do so many Madrid clubs hide themselves like this? Because there’s something new every night: local bands from punk to reggae, as well as DJs, theatre and literary readings. El Juglar prides itself on the variety of entertainment it brings, and you’ll find a lot of music here that defies easy categorization. The crowd is a mix of ages and quite sociable. Hot Tip: On Mondays and Wednesdays El Juglar sometimes has Flamenco lessons that are open to beginners, but you’ll need to book ahead.
The Draw: Funk and soul on a friendly dance floor, and a relaxing terraza outside. The Scene: One of the coolest clubs in Madrid is open every weeknight, with a DJ spinning funk, soul, jazz, and Latin tunes for a trendy younger crowd that’s here to mingle. The terraza (outdoor café) is strangely relaxing, despite its proximity to an overpass. Evenings, the bridge lights up and makes a pleasurable and none-too-noisy backdrop to a late night drink. Hot Tip: Every Monday at midnight a jazz–soul quartet puts on one of the best free shows in Madrid. If this is your kind of music, don’t miss it.
