Participate in a historical dance tradition that is exclusive to the Yucatan. Vaquerias are a religious and economic celebration honoring the patron saint of either a Hacienda or a Yucatan village. The bigger the party, the more money a village or hacienda had. These dances share the sounds of the Jarana orchestra with the sights of Jarana traditional dance.
Today, no one has to travel outside Merida to a Hacienda or village to witness a traditional Vaqueria. Every Sunday at 1 p.m. or Monday at 9 p.m. you can experience the same passion, liveliness and cultural infusion of the Vaqueria in the heart of Merida. The fiesta is free and a real insight into Yucatan history.
History of Yucatan Vaquerias
The original Vaquerias were a three day, four night celebration. Three things set this fiesta apart from other traditional celebrations. First there is the Jarana Orchestra. Second, a large display of fireworks before the party begins and during the dance. The third unique tradition is the bomba, rhymes recited on demand by male dancers.
The Jarana Orchestra blends European and Mayan musical traditions. The orchestra is made up of wind and brass instruments, a guiro (dry gourd that is similar to a flute) and kettledrums. Jarana is also the name of the traditional dance that accompanies this wonderful music. Men and women wear Yucatan festival costumes; the hipil dress and shawl for women, guayabera shirt, Panama hat and red scarf for men.
The Most Intriguing Part of the Vacqueria
The bomba is most likely the most intriguing part of the festival. During the dance, male dancers will spontaneously yell ‘bomba’ and all music will stop. At this point, one man yells out a ridiculously funny rhyme. The orchestra and dancing resume until the next time ‘bomba’ is yelled and another rhyme is shared.
Where to Catch the Vaquerias in Merida
Both Vaquerias on Sunday afternoon and Monday evening are held in Merida’s Main Square – Plaza Grande. The shows are just a hint of this great cultural tradition but we wished they lasted the historical three days and four nights. If there is one cultural event to see while visiting Merida this is it. This party cannot be found anywhere else in Mexico as it is a Yucatan tradition that has deep historical roots in this colonial city.