Join your Filipino Young Professionals Cultural Ambassadors of Houston (@FYPCA.HTX) for a sensational afternoon of dance!
Flirtatious movements, flowing gowns, the elegance of the barong tagalog, and swaying, Spanish-influenced tones of Rondalla music all weave together the iconic dance of Cariñosa.
The Cariñosa is a Spanish influenced folk dance that originated in Panay Island and forms a part of the Maria Clara suite of Philippine folk dances, a set of traditional Philippine dances that emulate the modesty and grace of Filipina women during the Spanish colonial era.
The name "Cariñosa" is derived from the Spanish word "cariñosa," which means affectionate or loving, reflecting its flirtatious courtship movements. The backing music is a Rondalla ensemble, typically bandurria, laud, guitars, bajo de uña (bass), playing in 3/4 with graceful, songlike melodies
Women typically wear a María Clara gown, known for its pañuelo collar, bell sleeves, and long skirt, while the men wear a Barong Tagalog, a translucent embroidered shirt, or a simple camisa de chino, paired with slacks and dress shoes.
The Cariñosa is one of the most beloved dances of the Philippines, representing our rich heritage and the adapting, enduring traditions of the Filipino people during the Spanish colonial era, and we invite you to join us this December for our FREE workshop to learn some of the basic choreography!
No dance experience is necessary, only a willingness to learn and move your body!
Date: December 6, 2025
Time: 2:30-4:30pm
Location: Soundbox Studios, Ballroom E
3300 Chimney Rock Rd STE 500, Houston, TX 77056
Again, ADMISSION IS FREE but registration is strongly encouraged so we can accommodate space for all our attendees!
See y'all there!
This event is funded in part by the Houston Arts Alliance (@houstonartsalliance) and Office of Cultural Affairs (@houstonmoca). Our deepest gratitude goes to them for funding and supporting cultural arts in Houston.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
❓️What exactly is Carinosa?
The Carinosa is a Spanish-influenced dance that emphasizes flirtatious, graceful movements between two partners.
❓️Sounds complicated, do I need dance experience? Is it easy to learn?
Just like any dance, it may seem a bit intimidating at first, but with practice anyone can learn the Carinosa! We’ll teach you the concepts and basic steps and ensure students are never pushed beyond what they’re comfortable with to ensure a safe and fun learning environment for everyone involved!
❓️Can anyone join?
YES, absolutely, and we mean everyone of all experience levels from complete beginner to expert dancer, and you don’t have to be Filipino to participate either! We want to promote a diverse environment and ensure attendees are able to find a deeper understanding and appreciation of our beloved Filipino dance!
❓️What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes are recommended! We don’t recommend baggy clothing that hangs past your ankles, but slacks and leggings are okay! For footwear we recommend comfortable dance shoes, though if you prefer to go barefoot that's okay too (we don't recommend socks however, the dance floor can be slippery!). Also to our long-haired friends, a scrunchie or hair-tie will go a long way, trust us!
❓️Anything else I should bring to the workshop?
Just yourself and a willingness to learn! Water and drinks will be provided at the workshop, but try to eat something light before attending since we’ll be moving and we want to make sure everyone is fully hydrated and energized! Emphasis on “light meal” - save the pancit and lumpia for after! ;)