What the dance is like
- Zapateado (footwork) as the basis of the choreography.
- Upright posture throughout.
- Turns in the waltz sections.
- Arms raised at right angles.
- Finger snaps called truenos (thunder), which the state source compares to Spanish castanets.
No single set of steps
The Yucatán government notes there are no single fixed steps: they vary by community. Every town has its own way of dancing jarana.
Where it's danced
The jarana is the centerpiece of vaquerías and part of fairs and patron-saint celebrations. It's danced in gala mestizo dress: the terno for women and a guayabera with white trousers for men.
The bombas
During the jarana, the music stops for the bomba, a spoken interlude of verses and humor.
Tips for seeing it
- Ask about town patron-saint fiestas during your dates.
- If you're invited to dance, go for it!
- Ask permission before photographing dancers up close.
The jarana on your travels
Patron-saint fiestas fall on different dates in each town. If one coincides with a Mary Tours trip to Izamal or Valladolid, it's worth checking out. Trips leave from Calle 61 in downtown Mérida.
Fun facts
- The jarana's finger snaps are called truenos.
- There's no single correct way to dance it.
- It pauses for spoken bombas.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the jarana?
Yucatán's most important regional dance, based on footwork.
Where is it danced?
At vaquerías, fairs and patron-saint fiestas.
Does it have fixed steps?
No single steps; they vary by community.
What do dancers wear?
Gala mestizo dress: terno and guayabera.
