Our Legacy

art beauty and culture
Discover the Rhythm of
Folklorico

Preserving Tradition, Inspiring the Future

Step into the vibrant world of Folklorico, a captivating dance form that celebrates the rich history, culture, and traditions of Mexico. We invite you to experience the rhythm, colors, and stories that have been passed down through generations. Ballet Folklorico San Diego Dance Company is a traditional dance company that performs live at several dance theaters and special events. Not only do we teach dance, but we also impart lessons on leadership and discipline. Aside from a dancing team, we are family that supports each other.

About Us
Young dancers in traditional Mexican attire engage with a male figure, showcasing cultural heritage through vibrant costumes and joyful expressions.
Three stylized icons represent different dance styles: a sombrero, a red dance shoe, and the initials "BFSD," indicating a dance-focused theme or event.

Our  Story

Three stylized icons represent different dance styles: a sombrero, a red dance shoe, and the initials "BFSD," indicating a dance-focused theme or event.

Nadia Arambula established Ballet Folklorico El Tapatio in 2000 in El Cajon, California. In 2008, she moved her dance group to San Diego’s central region, receiving guidance from Linda Vista’s Bayside Community Center. Continuing her dedication to Mexican culture, Nadia founded Ballet Folklorico de San Dieguito in 2014 with assistance from Encinitas Friends of the Arts. Since 2011, she has also directed the Ballet Folklorico and Mariachi Association (FAMA) at the University of San Diego. Established in 2024, Ballet Folklorico San Diego Dance Company continues to feature elite dancers and remains celebrated for its vivid representation of Mexico’s heritage through traditional dance and vibrant regional costumes. BFSD is deeply committed to promoting and preserving Mexico’s cultural traditions. The organization embraces its responsibility to share the beauty and artistry of folklorico dance, educating and entertaining audiences while nurturing a love for Mexican culture.

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Testimonials

sombrerored shoes

“My daughter has been dancing here for seven years, and this studio has truly shaped her. It builds confidence through challenging choreography, forges lifelong friendships, and instills real discipline in every dancer. It’s a place where teamwork, growth, and passion shine on stage.”

– Lucy and Isabella Torres

Lucy and Isabella Torres

“I absolutely love the folklore dance classes! Nadia makes every session so much fun – she’s full of energy, passion and really knows how to guide everyone, whether you’re a beginner or have some experience. Each class is alive with music, culture and joy and I always leave feeling energized, inspired, and happy. I’m 37 years old, and these classes truly make a difference in my week. They’re wonderful way to move my body, keep my mind sharp by following the steps, and really connect my body and mind. I especially love performing and sharing what we’ve learned in class – it’s such a fulfilling experience. These classes are not just about learning the steps, they’re about connecting with the music, the traditions, and the community. I highly recommend them if you want to move, have fun, and feel alive – this is the place!”

– Alejandra Sandoval

dancing girl

“My daughter has been part of this Ballet Folklorico family for more than seven years, beginning all the way back in first grade. In that time, I have watched her grow not only as a dancer, but as a young woman grounded in confidence, culture, and community. Ms. Nadia teaches far more than choreography, coordination, and technique. She leads with rigor and discipline while nurturing a deep love for our traditions and a sense of belonging among the girls and young women she guides. She has helped my daughter discover her voice, her confidence, and her pride in who she is. Through performance, discipline, and cultural storytelling, Ms. Nadia shows the dancers that they are part of something bigger than themselves. She is preserving cultural legacies and passing them on with intention and heart. I have watched my daughter learn perseverance, grace under pressure, and the beauty of showing up fully for herself and her community. This program shapes leaders, not just dancers, by teaching commitment and cultural pride. The transformation I have seen in my daughter is both personal and profound, and I know it is because of the space, the mentorship, and the example that Ms. Nadia provides. The community of friends she has bonded with has been one of the most meaningful parts of her experience, and she truly cherishes the sisterhood she has found here.”

– Dr. Cristina Padilla

Dr. Cristina Padilla and Lila Vasquez

“What I love about Ballet Folklórico San Diego Dance Co. is that it helps you gain confidence and independence. It teaches us so much more than how to dance — it teaches us how to improvise, adapt, and keep moving forward no matter what. At Ballet Folklórico San Diego Dance Company, we’re constantly reminded that there is always a way, and to never give up or doubt ourselves.

I have been dancing with this company for over ten years, and it has impacted me deeply since the very beginning. When I first joined, I had poor posture, zero confidence, and I was extremely shy — I didn’t speak up for myself at all. Now, thanks to everything I’ve learned here, I can speak with confidence, carry myself with strong posture, and instead of feeling scared to step on stage, I now feel excited and proud to dance. This class has become my stress reliever, my safe space, and a source of strength I never knew I had.

My teacher, Nadia Arámbula, has influenced me not only as a dancer but as a person. She has taught me important life lessons: to take every opportunity, to be independent, to present myself with confidence, and to trust the path I’m on — even when life isn’t perfect. One thing she always tells us is to dream big, but work hard to make those dreams come true, and that message has stayed with me.

Being part of Ballet Folklórico San Diego Dance Company has truly changed my life for the better.”

– Sherlyn Andrade

Sherlyn Andrade

“My daughter has been a part of BFSD Dance Company for over 3 years. With each year I’ve seen her confidence and love for dance bloom. We are grateful she is able to participate in an activity that helps her learn and be proud of the beauty of her culture.”

– Jessica and Quinn Kolodziej

A woman in sunglasses smiles beside a girl in a colorful, traditional dress with lace details. They stand outdoors, suggesting a festive occasion.

“We have been attending the mommy and me class with Ballet Folklórico. My daughter started when she was 3 years old and it has been a very positive experience for the both us. Our director, Nadia is wonderful with the kids and super flexible to the needs of this age group. She has worked hard to have it be a fun and inviting place for us all. Her attention to detail when there are performances is impressive. She is very organized which helps us navigate this. This is our first exposure to a dance class. It is our special time together for just my daughter and I and she looks forward to it every week. Thank you to Nadia and her team for providing such a wonderful class for us to be able to attend together!”

– Truly and Antonia Espinoza

Truly and Antonia Espinoza

“Dance is more than an after-school activity for me — BF San Diego Dance Company is a place for me to connect with my culture, build friendships that feel like family, and grow into a more confident version of myself. Through my time here at BFSD, I’ve learned the importance of professionalism, discipline, and commitment, qualities that continue to influence how I carry myself in school, work, and everyday life. Under Ms. Nadia’s guidance, I have not only developed as a dancer but as a young woman who leads with purpose, creativity, and pride. I’m deeply grateful for everything BFSD has given me; ballet folklorico is a passion I hope to carry with me for the rest of my life.”

– Madeline Nix

Madeline Nix

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