Mexico, a land rich in culture and traditions, boasts a diverse tapestry of artistic expressions, and among the most vibrant are its traditional and folkloric Mexican Dances. These dances, originating from various states across the Mexican Republic, serve as powerful representations of the nation’s heritage and the spirit of its people.
You may have witnessed these captivating mexican dances during festive occasions like the 15th of September, the 20th of November, or other civic events, parties, and local celebrations. For those familiar with Mexican culture, these are undoubtedly the iconic “Typical Dances of Mexico.”
Across the country, numerous schools, academies, and ballet folklorico groups dedicate themselves to preserving and practicing these regional mexican dance styles, showcasing them on stages both nationally and internationally. The intricate costumes, elaborate hairstyles with braids and flowers, and the symbolic accessories all contribute to the rich narrative woven through each performance. These elements have been meticulously passed down through generations of proud Mexicans, embodying the essence of Mexico itself.
For those less acquainted with the world of folkloric dances of Mexico or different mexican dance styles, this guide will illuminate their clothing, costumes, and some of the most globally recognized examples. Prepare to be amazed by the breadth and depth of Mexican culture expressed through dance!
Dancers in vibrant costumes performing a traditional Mexican dance
You might already be familiar with some of these mexican dancing styles, or at least have heard of them. Let’s delve deeper into these celebrated Mexican dances, exploring some of the most popular and representative forms:
1. Jarabe Tapatio: The National Dance of Mexico from Jalisco
The Jarabe Tapatío, a beloved folk dance originating from the state of Jalisco, emerged in the late 19th century and has become a powerful symbol of Mexican identity. Its popularity is so widespread that it’s often hailed as the “National Dance of Mexico”, representing the country on international stages, in movies, and commercials.
Typically performed to the lively music of mariachis, the Jarabe Tapatío features dancers engaging in a flirtatious and energetic performance, characterized by rhythmic footwork and vibrant movements.
Jalisco Costume for Jarabe Tapatio
Women’s Costume: The traditional attire for women in the Jarabe Tapatío is a striking long and wide, long-sleeved dress adorned with brightly colored ribbons. Completing the ensemble are mid-calf boots, typically in white or black, and hair elaborately decorated with ribbons and bows interwoven into braids.
Men’s Costume: Men don the classic charro suit, distinguished by buttons along the sides of the pants and the front of the jacket. Underneath, a white shirt with a vibrant bow tie that fastens at the neck is worn. Black boots and the iconic charro hat, recognized throughout Mexico, finalize the traditional male attire.
“Arriba Jalisco!” resonates as a cry of pride for this iconic dance and its region of origin.
2. Polka Norteña: A Fusion of European and Mexican Rhythms from Northern Mexico
The Polka, while originating in Europe, particularly with German immigrants, found a unique expression in Northern Mexico. In the mid-19th century, German immigrants settling in Northern Mexico and Southern Texas brought their musical instruments like accordions and saxophones, along with the elegant ballroom dance rhythm of the polka.
Initially a dance of the European upper class, the polka was observed and then adopted by indigenous communities. They embraced the rhythm and steps but infused it with a distinct Mexican flair, transforming it into the lively “Mexican Polka”.
This adaptation, alongside the development of the “Mexican Corrido,” became deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of northern Mexican states. States like Chihuahua, Tamaulipas, Nuevo León, Sonora, Coahuila, and Baja California, among other border and northern zone regions, are strongholds of this vibrant musical and dance genre.
Northern Polka Suit: Reflecting Regional Style
Women’s Costume: Women’s attire for the Polka Norteña can vary, featuring either skirts paired with blouses or long, wide dresses, often in a single color and embellished with ribbons. These dresses are typically long-sleeved with high necks and lace detailing. A long ribbon is tied around the waist, culminating in a large bow. White or black mid-calf boots are common footwear, and hair is styled in a high bun, adorned with a bow on top.
Men’s Costume: Men’s outfits often consist of jeans or cowboy pants, paired with a long-sleeved checkered shirt, sometimes layered with a fringed jacket. A handkerchief tied around the neck, a northern hat, and cowboy boots complete the characteristic look.
3. La Bamba: The Soul of Veracruz Expressed in Dance
La Bamba, originating from the state of Veracruz, is a cornerstone of Mexican folkloric dance. It’s deeply connected to the Son Jarocho musical style, and alongside “La Bruja” and “Colás,” is a dance that powerfully symbolizes Veracruz. Instruments such as the harp, guitar, and marimba provide the rhythmic foundation for this style.
Among these Veracruz dances, “La Bamba” stands out as the most internationally recognized and representative of the state. Often called the “Hymn of Veracruz,” its rhythm and choreography are instantly recognizable and captivating.
Typically performed by a single couple, La Bamba is set to a traditional song of Mexican origin. Its roots lie in a fusion of Spanish dance styles like Seguidillas and Fandangos, combined with Cuban Zapateados and Guajiras. Veracruz, as the first port of arrival for the Spanish in the late 17th century, served as a melting pot for these diverse influences.
Veracruz Costume for La Bamba
Women’s Costume: Women’s costumes for La Bamba are elaborate and elegant. They feature a long, wide, and flowing white skirt, often made and decorated with lace. The sleeveless blouse is the same white color as the skirt, creating a unified look. A black velvet apron, embroidered with colorful flowers, is worn over the skirt, and a red handkerchief is placed on one side. An embroidered or silk shawl drapes over the blouse, and a red fringed shawl is also incorporated. Accessories include a white “abanico” (fan), bracelets, large gold earrings, and striking gold necklaces. The hair is styled in a high bun, encircled by a braid, and adorned with colored flowers, a red bow, and a comb.
Men’s Costume: Men’s attire is simpler but equally distinctive. It consists of white pants and a white, long-sleeved guayabera shirt. A red scarf is tied around the neck, and white boots and a palm hat complete the traditional Jarocho look.
“Those are the Jarochos!” is a common exclamation, referencing the people and vibrant culture of Veracruz.
4. Flor de Piña: The Pineapple Harvest Dance of Oaxaca
Flor de Piña, while perhaps less known internationally, is a profoundly representative dance of the state of Oaxaca. You may have encountered it in cultural performances or civic events, but its origin story is quite unique.
Born in the municipality of San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec in Oaxaca, the dance was conceived in 1958 by Governor Alfonso Pérez Gasga. He felt that the Jarocho costumes were not representative of Oaxaca and commissioned an indigenous choreography for the musical piece “Flor de Piña,” composed by Oaxacan Don Samuel Mondragón.
Teacher Paulina Solís was tasked with creating the choreography we know today. Exclusively danced by women, Flor de Piña is said to represent the Tuxtepeca indigenous woman and is often interpreted as expressing “the joy of being a woman for the good harvest of the pineapple.”
Oaxaca Costume for Flor de Piña
Women’s Costume: The costume for Flor de Piña features a huipil, a traditional tunic, with various designs, shapes, and bright colors. Leather huaraches are typically worn as footwear. The hairstyle consists of two long braids adorned with ribbons of multiple colors. The most distinctive element is the pineapple carried on the shoulder, also decorated with colorful ribbons.
5. Dance of the Old Men (Los Viejitos): Humorous Tradition from Michoacan
The Dance of the Old Men, or “Los Viejitos,” is another widely recognized mexican dance, both within Mexico and internationally. This captivating and humorous dance originates from the state of Michoacán, specifically the town of Jarácuaro. Its roots trace back to the pre-Hispanic era, where it was performed to honor the Old God, or God of Fire.
Exclusively performed by men disguised as elderly men, the dance utilizes costumes that represent the Purépecha region. Characterized by its comedic elements, the Dance of the Old Men is a staple at celebrations like Christmas, New Year, and Candelaria Day.
Michoacan Costume for Dance of the Old Men
Men’s Costume: Dancers wear white cloth or blanket pants, layered with a serape, also known as a jorongo. A mask depicting the face of an old man and a cane are essential props. A handkerchief tied on the head and a hat decorated with colorful ribbons, along with leather huaraches, complete the costume.
6. Dance of the Deer: A Pre-Hispanic Ritual from Sonora
The Dance of the Deer is steeped in pre-Hispanic history, originating as a ritual practiced by the Yaqui and Mayo Indians of Sonora during deer hunts. For these indigenous groups, the deer was a revered animal.
The musical accompaniment for the Deer Dance is minimalist, featuring only a flute and a water drum. Three characters are central to the performance: the deer, the pascola, and the coyote.
Deer Character: The dancer portraying the deer wears a black or white handkerchief on their head, adorned with a stuffed deer head, sometimes embellished with colored ribbons. The upper body is bare, with only a leather loincloth for clothing. Rattles are worn on the ankles and held in the hands.
Pascola Character: Pascolas wear a lock of hair on their heads wrapped in a colored ribbon, along with colorful black and white necklaces. A painted mask depicting eyebrows, mustaches, and beards is also worn, and they are clad in a loincloth.
Coyote Character: Coyote characters wear a serape or jorongo and a plume of eagle feathers on their heads, resembling indigenous headdresses. They carry a bow to symbolize the deer hunt.
Sonora Costume for Dance of the Deer
Men’s Costume (Deer Dancer): As described above, the “costume” is minimal, focusing on body paint and symbolic accessories to represent the deer.
7. Jarana Yucateca: Lively Rhythms from the Yucatan Peninsula
Jarana Yucateca, another prominent mexican dance, is deeply characteristic of the Yucatan Peninsula in southern Mexico. In Merida, Yucatan, every Sunday offers the opportunity to witness performances in front of the municipal palace, showcasing dances like “La Cabeza de Cochino,” “Chinito Koy Koy,” and many others.
This style of dance emerged in Yucatan, known as mestizo jarana, typically performed in couples. Its origins date back to the Spanish colonial era, between the 17th and 18th centuries.
The name “Jarana” itself is said to have originated during Spanish festivities. When celebrations commenced, it was announced that “the Jarana had already begun.” Indigenous communities adopted the term, associating it with the lively music played at these events, thus giving rise to their own style of “jarana.”
Yucatan Costume for Jarana Mestiza
Women’s Costume: Women wear a huipil adorned with hand-embroidered flower decorations. Low-heeled white shoes, sometimes also decorated with embroidery, are worn. Shawls are draped over the arms, and accessories include gold necklaces and earrings. The hair is styled in a chongo (bun) decorated with colored flowers.
Men’s Costume: Men wear white pants and a white shirt or long-sleeved guayabera. A red scarf, leather sandals, and a hat complete their attire.
What do you think of this exploration of typical dances of Mexico? Do you feel inspired to dance? Which style is your favorite?
¡Viva Mexico!
