JALISCO

Jalisco is the land of the charros, chinas and mariachis. It is one of the leading states of western Mexico, noted for its climate, scenery, rich soil and culture. The capital is Guadalajara. Perhaps Mexico's only true national sport is the charreria. The skills displayed during a charreria roping, tying, riding or branding cattle) were developed for use in cattle ranching. Women also compete in their own events at the charreria. Even though they ride their horses sidesaddle to preserve their femininity, they are extremely skilled riders.

Without a doubt the state of Jalisco represents what is folklorico and is possibly the most famous region. It is known for the women's colorful skirts, mariachis, and the unforgettable image of the charro and his sombrero. Due to the fact that many of the dances are those of courtship the dances are known as jarabes which means "sweet syrup".

• Music: "Mariachi" is the name for traditional Mexican street music. It is the unique musical style in Mexico that bridges “folk” music and commercial “popular” music to form the Mexican music known around the world. The style has developed continuously during its history. Its folk roots stem from the original string mariachi ensembles developed in the 18th century in the highlands of Jalisco. While first only the violin, vihuela and the guitaron (big bass guitar) were used, and sometimes also the harp, one finds today that a lot of instruments are involved in this music. The trumpet joined in at the end of the fifties and gave a new characteristic sound to the mariachi music.
• Costume:
  Women: The china poblana is representative from the central region of Mexico, wearing a big skirt tacked with sequin and white blouse with an eagle on it. This costume is used to dance “El Jarabe Tapatio” (the dance of the hat). But most women dress with colorful dresses decorated with lots of ribbon and lace, sometimes wearing a shawl. Women in this region braid their hair with ribbons and tie it up with a big bow.
  Men: Fancy ropework is a source of pride to charro. The traditional show costume includes silver buttons, gold or silver embroidery, ornate spurs. Formal costume is combined to silver and white trim, is worn for balls and other formal events that take place on the grounds or indoors. Both, the show and the formal costume are worn with fancy huge hats also with silver or gold embroidery.

VERACRUZ

Veracruz is located along the Gulf of Mexico. Its capital is Jalapa. Vera Cruz is also a historical port. The oldest city on the Gulf of Mexico and the Republic's largest port, Veracruz is on the Eastern Coast of Mexico. The people living near the port are called Jarochos, their music and dances are called "Sones Jarochos".

• Music: The music is a mixture of Spanish, African, and Carribean rhythms. Jarocho music from Veracruz is fast-paced and the dance steps consist of intricate footwork requiring great agility. Dancers and musicians challenge one another to tests of speed and rhythmic accuracy with each song. The steps are generally executed in the form of a cross to signify the four directions and in circles to signify the rotation of time. The steps or "zapateados" have Flamenco and Andalusion characteristics which are difficult and lively but performed with style and elegance. La Bamba is one of the most beloved dances from Veracruz.
• Costume: The Spanish costume shows the white guayabera pants and shirts and red waist sash and straw hat. The women wear imported white lace dresses. Their hair is up in buns in a comb and shawls, or rebozos, accompanied by fans.

GUERRERO

The dances have strong South American influence, and the region is even known as the "Chilean coast" of Mexico. Guerrero is a tropical state on the Pacific coast. It was not only a haven to Asian influences that strayed and landed on its coast, but also a haven for run-away black slaves.

• Music: The dances and rhythms of Guerrero have a strong African influence. As many slaves escaped Spanish rule during colonial times, they found refuge along the coasts of Guerrero. The people of Guerrero, "los Calentanos" (a term connoting "warmth")--are taught from childhood to dance the local rhythms, which include "chilenas," "boleros," "sones," "zambas," "jarabes," and "gustos
• Costume: The use of handkerchiefs is a custom native to South America, particularly of the Andean countries. The dress is very colorful, as is the region, and the names of the dances, like "The Iguana" and "The Buzzard", reflect the close relationship to nature.