The land of beautiful women and charros is located west of Mexico City.

Known for the mariachis that accompany its song and dances, Jalisco is also known for its varied arts and crafts and colorful costumes. The "Jarabe Tapatio," known here as the "Mexican hat dance" is embraced as the national dance of Mexico.

Jarabe means "sweet syrup," as many of the dances are about courtship, and reflect joy and sensuality between man and woman. The jarabe is the union of indigenous "zapateados" and Spanish influence, which is manifested in some of the upper body movements.

The attire of multiple and colorful ribbons on the women's dress and the man's "charro" outfit are symbols of Mexican pride and heritage.

Dances