Cueca
Chile's national dance — courtship with handkerchiefs, mimicking a rooster courting a hen. Originated in Chile · 16th–19th c.. Typically danced around 120-160 BPM (medium-fast).
About Cueca
- Folk & Traditional
- Chile
- 16th–19th c.
- 120-160 BPM (Medium-fast)
- Partner
- Intermediate
Courtship dance with handkerchiefs; national dance of Chile; mimics rooster courting a hen.
What to expect: Danced at Chilean cultural events, Fiestas Patrias (national holiday), and folk dance festivals. Has a dedicated social revival in Chile. Found at Chilean diaspora events and Latin folk dance festivals.
Lineage
Where to find Cueca events
We don't have verified cueca events on the calendar right now. Check the full event feed for related styles, or submit one if you organize.
Going for the first time
Folk and traditional dance nights vary widely — Scandinavian, English country, square dance, contra. Most are caller-led so you're walked through every figure in real time. No partner needed; the format rotates everyone through the set.
Listen for the caller. Thank your partner and the band. If live music is playing, applaud between tunes.