Venezuelan folk music is a vibrant expression of the country's cultural heritage, blending Indigenous, African, and European influences. It features a variety of traditional instruments, such as the cuatro, a four-stringed guitar, and the maracas, which add rhythm and melody to the music. Popular genres include joropo, characterized by its lively tempo and danceable beats, and gaita, often associated with the Christmas season. The music is typically performed at festivals and community gatherings, reflecting the social and cultural life of Venezuelans. Folk songs often tell stories of daily life, love, and nature, preserving the history and traditions of the diverse regions of Venezuela.