Our Mission
Danzantes Unidos is the cultural network of Mexican folk dancers and artists. It was incorporated in 1994 to promote and support the Mexican Folk experience through the performing and visual arts, including, but not limited to, the annual three-day festival known as the Danzantes Unidos Festival.
Festival History and Philosophy
The inspiration for the concept was National Dance Week in San Jose that featured five statewide folklorico groups. Festival founders John Estrada and Sue Welsh envisioned a dance program that would include many more folklorico groups from throughout the state of California united in an annual celebration. The first festival was held in UCLA in 1979 and continues to take place during Palm Sunday Weekend. It provides an opportunity for Mexican folk dancers to meet, study and perform in a united celebration. The three-day Festival offers movement classes, lectures, costume showing, visual art workshops, dance presentations and musical recitals. DUF has offered a positive outlet for the creative energies and artistic potential of folkloristas since its inception. Emphasis is placed on sharing and participation is open to all dancers regardless of age or skill level.
Festival Sites
The Danzantes Unidos Festival has been hosted throughout the state in the following cities:
| Los Angeles |
1979 to 1984 |
| San Jose |
1985 to 1989 |
| Fresno |
1990, 1992 & 1993 |
| San Diego |
1994 & 1995 |
| Salinas |
1996 & 1997 |
| Hayward |
1998 & 1999 |
| Fresno |
2000 & 2001 |
| Sacramento |
2002 |
| Fresno |
2003 & 2004 |
| Gardena |
2005 |
| Whittier |
2006 & 2007 |
| San Jose |
2008, 2009 & 2010 |
The Organization
In 1994, the organization incorporated as a non-profit organization functioning within the state of California. In 2001, the organization was awarded its federal nonprofit status. The board of directors consists of representatives from throughout the six regions of California: Gold Country, Greater SF Bay Area, Central Valley, Central Coast, Greater LA Basin and San Diego.
Educational Outreach and Services
Not limited to the annual festival, Danzantes Unidos de California is dedicated to serving the folklorico community via its varied projects:
• Danzantes Unidos Newsletter
• Folklorico On Wheels Project
• Director’s Dialogue
• MusiDanza
• Festival Sin Fronteras
Collaborations Welcome
Danzantes Unidos de California welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with cultural arts organizations to further promote traditional arts in Mexico and the U.S. Please write to President@danzantes.org
