Where to see Bomba Puertorriquña in Old San Juan
What is Bomba Puertorriqueña?
Bomba refers to the sacred, traditional Afro-Puerto Rican music and dance at the heart of our culture.
And my absolute, hands down, most favorite, of👏🏽all👏🏽time👏🏽 lore of Puerto Rican heritage.
Can you tell I’m passionate about this yet?
Bomba originated with the enslaved Africans brought to Puerto Rico centuries ago and has evolved into a powerful symbol of Puerto Rican culture.
It was and still is a source of political and spiritual expression rooted in resilience, rebellion, and joy wherein:
- lyrics typically convey sadness and anger about our condition
- the intimate call-and-respond style of dance between the dancer and drummer exhibiting the beauty and power in mutual respect and understanding
- and the gathering builds community and resilience through celebration
Bomba today still closely encompasses these sacred features remaining a core symbol of Puerto Rican identity.
And just to add to the lure, this traditionally male-dominated genre has shifted to a strong female presence across the island. From women singers, drummers and dancers leading the circles— the rebellious, resilient, and revolutionary legacy of Bomba Puertorriqueña is stronger than ever.
LOVE TO SEE IT! 💃🏽
Bomba Puertorriqueña in Old San Juan?
Every Monday and Friday the community of La Perla “opens its doors” to the public to showcase, teach, and engage in this traditional cultural event.
- Search “El Malecon de la Perla” on google maps for directions
- Start heading there around 4:15 with a 4:30-5 start time
- You will find the entrance to this part of the city right across the street where “Callejon de la Tanca” is (a location featured in your itinerary) It’s a ramp of stairs that descend to the town below, outside of the city walls, right at the edge of the sea.
- If you need directions or are asked where you’re going, let them know you’re going to “El Malecon para la Bomba” everyone knows about this event!
ATTENTION: when in La Perla (the town below by the sea), I ask that you do not wonder off.
La Perla considers itself to be sovereign and residents prefer to be left alone, so — respectfully — please NO exploring nor picture taking of this area.
HOWEVER: Once at the event, video, pictures, and participation are encouraged! It‘s really an absolutely incredible communal experience.
PRO TIP: if you see a drummer named Sergio there, tell him “Sheylita” sent you! That’s my homeboy!
Here for all things authentically Puerto Rican?
Consider authentic souvenirs!
Don’t carry another fragile shot glass for the rest of your trip only to have it break before you get on your flight home. There is no better connection to a land, its people, their culture, and one’s own experience of it than through art.
Shop my Soy Boricua Collection of original, Puerto Rican wall art prints and bring home a beautiful, meaningful keepsake that will last generations.
