When you compete in charreada, not only the overall outcome matters but every single detail including your hand position during this or that movement. Participants have to be dressed up, and ride as gracefully as possible, so it is quite an artistic performance to observe. Grace and style actually make it different from other rodeos in the USA, Canada, or Spain, where the sport originates.
Although charreada is considered the national sport of Mexico, it stems from Salamanca's housekeepers who came to Mexico back in the 16th century. At first, the newcomers oppressed indigenous people and didn't allow them to ride horses. Yet it couldn't last for long, and soon locals mastered the sport's art. Today charreada is particularly popular in the state of Jalisco, namely in Guadalajara two-hour championships are held on Sundays in different locations. Both men and women can partake. Also, a special occasion to enjoy is the Mexican National Charro Championship held in the Mariachi Festival during the first weekend in September.
International Mariachi and Charrería Festival (late August- early September 2024)
Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charreria is world's largest Mariachi festival, held in the city of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. The festival usually starts on the last Sunday in August with a spectacular paradise along the Guadalajara central streets. The parade features over 16 impressive floats and famous Mariachi groups, like Mariachi de América, Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, and Los Camperos. Another popular event is Galas de Mariachi held in Teatro Degollado. The National Charro Championship is another highlight, featuring six best nationally ranked teams. The championship is held on the first weekend of September. Regular charreria competitions occur on Sundays at different locations. Each competition runs for about two hours.
Charreria Rules
A charreada is held according to strict rules. The arena features a lane 12 by 60 meters (39 by 197 feet), leading into a circle 40 meters (131 feet) in diameter. The participants, both men and women, wear traditional charro clothing and cowboy outfits decorated with silver studs. Contestants put on a show, demonstrating their lasso skills and making their horses dance to Mariachi music. Two or more teams, or asociaciones, compete for the title of state, regional, and national champions. The competition features nine events for men and one for women.
