Cinco De Mayo 2012: A Brief History Of Baile Folklorico (PHOTOS)

Cinco de Mayo may be a U.S.-fabricated holiday vaguely related to a major battle in Puebla, Mexico in 1862, but it's still saturated in Mexican traditions. Across the country, celebrations will be swathed in color, bringing to mind the twirling circle skirts of baile folklorico.

Baile folklorico (translated to folkloric dance) is a traditional Mexican folk dance that dates back to Mexico's 1810 War of Independence when nationalism nudged the dance into widespread popularity. Throughout the years, the dance's recognition and styles reshaped itself along with the development of the nation. In 1952 Amalia Hernandez formed the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico, establishing the dance as a mainstay in Mexican culture.

The dance is recognizable predominately by the costumes worn. The women adorn themselves with colorful, layered dresses meant to spread and twirl as they spin on the dance floor. Their dance partners are dressed much more subtly, typically with all-black suits similar to traditional mariachi costumes.

So sure, Corona sales may spike for a day, and one too many kids will probably get sick off of one too many tequila shots, but Baile Folklorico is the heart of this holiday.

Click through below for beautiful images of Baile Folklorico from many Cinco de Mayos past:

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Comments

[metoo123]

01:30 PM on 05/06/2012

Beautiful photos! Thanks, HP!

[TexMex]

08:55 AM on 05/05/2012

Nice piece, expect Mariachi don"t wear "costumes". It is clearly a suit. It is Charro style to be sure, but it is not a costume.

[TheOnlySaneOne]

12:41 AM on 05/05/2012

I was in Baile Folklorico in Jr. High and in High School. We got to dance at many different places all over the DFW area. It was cool and I loved it!