Feria de Cali (Cali Fair) | Cali

Cali Fair (Feria de Cali) – A Celebration of Culture, Dance, and Music

Feria de Cali (Cali Fair) is one of the most iconic and eagerly awaited events in Cali, Colombia, celebrated every year during the last week of December. It is a week-long festival that showcases the city's rich cultural heritage, music, dance, food, and traditions. The Cali Fair is especially famous for its vibrant salsa music, dancing, and grand parades, making it a must-see event for locals and international visitors alike.

History of Feria de Cali

1. Origins of the Festival

• Feria de Cali has its roots in the city's salsa culture and cultural pride. It began in 1957 as a way to celebrate the end of the year and bring people together for a festive occasion. Originally, it was a small-scale event, but over the years, it has grown into one of the largest and most significant festivals in Colombia, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
• The fair was initially organized to celebrate Cali’s cultural identity and salsa music, but it has since expanded to include a variety of events, reflecting the diversity of the city’s cultural landscape.

2. Evolution and Growth

• Over time, the Cali Fair has become a huge cultural celebration that includes musical performances, traditional dances, food festivals, bullfights, and more. It has evolved to incorporate both modern and traditional elements of Colombian culture, representing the diverse population of Cali.
• The fair has grown in international popularity, with people from all over the world visiting the city to participate in the festivities. It has also become an important event for the salsa community, attracting renowned salsa musicians and dancers from around the globe.

Main Attractions and Events at Feria de Cali

1. Salsa and Music

• Salsa music is the heartbeat of the Cali Fair, with live performances by famous salsa bands, both local and international. The Cali Fair is known for its Salsa Concerts, where visitors can enjoy incredible music, with dancers filling the streets as the rhythms take over.
• Salsa dance is a key feature, with public dance floors set up throughout the city, where both locals and tourists can join in the fun. Many people come from different parts of the world just to experience Cali’s salsa culture and dance to the rhythms of the city’s vibrant nightlife.

2. Grand Parades

• One of the main highlights of the Cali Fair is the Grand Parade, which is held on December 25th. This parade features colorful floats, traditional costumes, dancers, musicians, and performers, showcasing the cultural diversity of Cali. The parade is a lively celebration of Colombian culture, with an emphasis on salsa music and Cali’s Afro-Colombian heritage.
• Another popular parade is the Salsa Parade, which celebrates Cali's identity as the salsa capital of the world. The streets come alive with salsa enthusiasts dancing and enjoying the rhythms that have made Cali famous globally.

3. Concerts and Shows

• In addition to salsa, the Cali Fair also features other genres of music, such as tropical, reggaeton, rock, and vallenato, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Large concerts featuring local and international artists take place throughout the week, drawing huge crowds to the fairgrounds.
• Cultural shows, including traditional Colombian dances, theatrical performances, and folk music, also take place during the fair, adding to the festival's cultural richness.

4. Bullfights

• The Feria de Cali includes bullfights at the Plaza de Toros Cañaveralejo, one of the most famous bullrings in Colombia. Although bullfighting is a controversial tradition in many parts of the world, it is still a significant part of Cali’s Feria. The bullfights are a blend of spectacle and tradition, drawing large crowds each year.
• For those who don’t wish to attend bullfights, the Cali Fair offers a wide range of other activities and shows to enjoy.

5. Food and Local Cuisine

• Food is another highlight of the Cali Fair, with various food stalls offering a delicious array of Colombian dishes. Visitors can enjoy local specialties like sancocho, empanadas, arepas, pandebonos, and tropical fruits. The fair provides an opportunity to taste the best of Cali’s culinary delights and experience the flavors of the region.
• Food festivals are a major attraction, where chefs from all over the country gather to showcase their culinary expertise. The event is an excellent way to discover Colombian gastronomy in all its flavors.

6. Sports and Bull Riding

• In addition to the parades and musical events, the Cali Fair includes sports competitions, such as cyclocross races and horseback riding events. Bull riding exhibitions and contests also take place, further enhancing the fair's festive atmosphere.

Why Attend Feria de Cali?

1. Experience the Heart of Salsa Culture

• Cali is known as the salsa capital of the world, and there’s no better place to experience the salsa culture than during the Cali Fair. The city’s streets come alive with music, dancing, and celebrations, offering an immersive experience for visitors who love music and dance.

2. Witness the Energy and Spirit of the City

• The Cali Fair is not just a celebration of music but a showcase of Cali’s energy, passion, and sense of community. The entire city comes together to celebrate the holiday season with joy, warmth, and unity. Visitors get to experience Cali’s lively spirit and the friendly, welcoming nature of its residents.

3. Celebrate Colombian Culture

• From the parades to the concerts to the traditional dances, the Cali Fair is a vibrant reflection of Colombian culture. It's an excellent opportunity to learn about the country’s diverse traditions and customs while enjoying the excitement of the fair.

Visitor Information

• Dates: Feria de Cali is held annually during the last week of December, culminating on December 25th.
• Location: Most of the events take place in central Cali, including the Cañaveralejo Bullring, Bulevar del Río, and various public squares around the city.
• Ticketing: Some events, such as concerts and bullfights, require tickets, while others, like the parades and street performances, are free to attend.

Conclusion

The Feria de Cali is a celebration like no other, offering visitors an unforgettable experience filled with music, dance, culture, and joy. Whether you’re a salsa lover, a foodie, or simply looking to immerse yourself in one of Colombia's most lively festivals, Cali's Fair is an event you don't want to miss. It perfectly captures the essence of Cali’s identity, making it one of the most exciting cultural events in Colombia.