La Feria de Cali: Joy and Rhythm in the Capital of Salsa

The Cali Fair (Feria de Cali), also known as the Sugar Cane Fair, is one of Colombia’s most vibrant and anticipated cultural events. Held annually in Cali, Valle del Cauca, from December 25 to 30, this colorful celebration has been a cherished tradition since 1958. It attracts thousands of visitors from across Colombia and the world, offering a dynamic showcase of music, dance, and cultural heritage.

A History rooted in resilience

The origins of the Cali Fair lie in a moment of adversity. After a tragic explosion devastated the city in 1956, the fair was introduced two years later as a way to boost morale and support economic recovery. What began as an act of resilience has since transformed into an exuberant display of the Colombian spirit, uniting people through culture and celebration. Its alternative name, the Sugar Cane Fair, reflects the importance of this crop to the local economy and identity.

The Cali Fair’s events and festivities

The Cali Fair is renowned for its array of events that highlight the city’s rich traditions and artistic expression:

• Salsódromo: The fair begins with this electrifying parade of over 1,200 dancers from various schools performing intricate salsa choreographies along Roosevelt Avenue.
• Cali Viejo Carnival: This colorful parade celebrates Cali’s Afro-descendant and indigenous roots, featuring vibrant costumes and traditional dances that bring the city’s history to life.
• Classic and Antique Cars Parade: A nostalgic journey through time, showcasing vintage vehicles and their owners dressed in period attire.
• Silleteros Parade: Paying homage to the region’s agricultural heritage, participants carry elaborate flower arrangements on their backs in a breathtaking display.
• Salsa al Parque: Outdoor performances by dancers and musicians in parks and squares across the city celebrate Cali’s title as the “World Capital of Salsa.”

Music and dance at the forefront

The fair is a paradise for music and dance enthusiasts. Salsa takes center stage, but other tropical rhythms such as merengue, cumbia, and vallenato are also celebrated. The Salsódromo parade and the Superconcert—featuring both local talent and internationally renowned artists—are standout attractions that amplify Cali’s reputation as a hub for vibrant musical traditions.

The Cali Fair is more than a celebration; it’s a platform for cultural exchange. Artists from around the world come to perform, enriching the event and fostering connections between diverse communities. At the same time, the fair serves as a significant economic driver, boosting tourism and benefitting local businesses, from restaurants and hotels to shops and artisans.

Above all, the Cali Fair reflects the resilience, creativity, and joy of the caleños (Cali residents). It has grown from a response to tragedy into a beacon of cultural identity, uniting people through the universal languages of music and dance. For visitors, the fair offers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the authentic essence of Colombia—a legacy of celebration that continues to evolve with each passing year.

Whether you come for the infectious rhythms of salsa, the dazzling parades, or the vibrant atmosphere, the Cali Fair promises an unforgettable experience that resonates with the spirit of Colombia.