Música de Fondo - Festejos

El festejo es la danza representativa del criollo negro y originaria de la costa peruana. Surgió en el siglo XVII y los instrumentos musicales para esta danza han debido ser originalmente tambores de cuero, que luego se han reemplazado con el cajón peruano, y la maraca por la quijada de burro, agregándole guitarra acústica y canto. Tradicionalmente se practica en las regiones Lima e Ica, siendo la ciudad de Lima y los distritos de San Luis (Cañete) y El Carmen (Chincha), las zonas vinculadas a este género.

Festejo (from Spanish 'fiesta') is a festive form of Afro-Peruvian music. The dance is a staple in the Black coastal populations and it celebrates the emancipation of slaves. Festejo is recognized for its high energy and the improvisation carried out by the dancers. Some believe that its origins trace back to competitive dance circles performed by individuals playing cajóns. Despite its African origins, people of all different backgrounds participate in the dance that many regards as one of the greatest representations of Peruvian culture.

It is currently performed, in its most traditional form, in San Luis de Cañete and El Carmen District, Chincha (Chincha).