Lienzo Charro de La Viga

What it is. One of the largest charro rings in Mexico City, staging suertes — the nine regulated events of a charreada — and competitions between associations.

Its history, which explains the name. The first ring in this area began operating in 1933, near the former Hacienda de Narvarte. It was displaced by the construction of Metro line 8 and relocated to colonia Pantitlán, reopening in 1983.

What you would see. Charrería is Mexico's national sport and UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2016. A charreada is a scored competition, not a show: cala de caballo, piales, colas, bull riding, terna en el ruedo, mare riding, manganas on foot and on horseback, and the paso de la muerte. The women's escaramuza — eight riders side-saddle in adelita dresses performing synchronised figures at a gallop — is the part that astonishes anyone seeing their first.

How to attend. There is no daily programme: charreadas are scheduled by date, usually at weekends, and announced locally. Call ahead to ask when there is one and whether entry is open.

Practical notes. Guadalupe #181, colonia Agrícola Pantitlán. Metro Pantitlán, lines 1, 5, 9 and A. Events run at midday in full sun: hat, sunscreen, water and cash.