Coyote - A Word That Always Makes Thais Grin

Coyote Dancing in Thailand: Glitter, Heels, and Confusion

Imagine you walk into a bar in Thailand and suddenly the music drops, lights flash, and women in platform heels climb onto tables and start dancing, aggressively, confidently, and somehow still politely. Congratulations, you’ve just discovered the fascinating spectacle of Thai coyote dancing.

It’s not a cowboy thing. There are no lassos. But there is glitter. So much glitter. And it's pronounced /co-yo-TAY/.

What Is Coyote Dancing?

Coyote dancing is a mix of nightclub go-go dancing, cabaret, and Thai-style stage performance. The dancers, almost always young women, perform choreographed routines in flashy outfits that range from “bachelorette party” to “space cheerleader.” It’s sexy but rarely sleazy, provocative but strangely polite.

It’s the only dance genre where someone can twerk, spin, and wink at a crowd while never spilling their Red Bull.

Where Do You Find It?

Everywhere from Bangkok megaclubs to remote Isaan village fairs. You’ll see coyote dancers at:

• Nightclubs and beer gardens
• Live music venues and Thai country concerts
• Truck shows, temple fundraisers, and motor expos (yes, really)
• Random roadside parties where someone rented a stage and just went for it

Sometimes it’s a full production. Other times, it's just three girls on a truck bed with a fog machine and one Bluetooth speaker running out of battery.

Why Is It Called "Coyote" Dancing?

Because Thailand loves naming things after movies. Inspired by the 2000 film Coyote Ugly, Thai nightlife took the name and ran with it, adding platform shoes, Thai pop remixes, and a lot more sequins. There are now “Coyote Bars,” “Coyote Shows,” and even “Coyote Competitions” where dancers battle it out on stage to impress both judges and sweaty uncles in the audience.

Is It a Strip Show?

Nope. It’s usually more tease than sleaze. Think PG-13 with loud music. The dancers may wear revealing outfits, but they don’t take them off. They’re performers, not strippers. It’s a job, often with surprising structure, rules, and rehearsals.

Though, depending on the venue, you might get a little side of awkward flirting or a dance that gets dangerously close to someone’s plate of grilled squid.

How Do Locals Feel About It?

Depends who you ask. Some see it as fun entertainment, others call it cultural decline with backup dancers. For many, it’s just part of the nightlife. Like karaoke, but sweatier.

Also, it’s worth noting that a lot of these dancers are professionals, earning real money, supporting families, and doing full choreography in 10-inch heels. Respect the hustle.

In Summary

Coyote dancing in Thailand is weird, wild, and uniquely Thai. It’s where pop music, LED lights, and gravity-defying high heels come together in a blur of confusion and charisma. Whether you find it empowering, amusing, or mildly disorienting, one thing’s for sure: it makes for a night you won’t forget (unless you overdo it on the whiskey soda).

So next time you hear a DJ scream “make some noise!” and the lights start flashing, look up. There’s probably a coyote dancer about to moonwalk across a beer keg. And honestly? She’s killing it.

🎥 Watch It In Action here or here

Bonus: Tourist Guide to Coyote Etiquette - Dos and Don’ts

• Don’t touch the dancers. Seriously. This isn’t a buffet.
• Do cheer, clap, or awkwardly smile. Just don’t stare like you’ve never seen glitter before.
• Don’t request a song unless you’re a DJ or a rich uncle.
• Do tip respectfully if it’s allowed. Folded bills are fine. Coins? Not so classy.
• Don’t climb on stage. This is not karaoke. You will be escorted off with Thai-level politeness and a side of embarrassment.
• Do bring earplugs. The bass will attempt to realign your organs.

And if you find yourself dancing near the coyote dancers, remember: you are the side dish, not the main course. Keep it humble, farang.