Major Events & Festivals in Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia

1. Festival de Cali

Celebrated annually in July, this salsa dance festival showcases local and international artists.

Rich Cultural Experience: Offers an immersion into Colombian culture through music and dance performances.
Diverse Performances: Features a wide variety of salsa styles, from traditional to modern.
Community Spirit: Encourages participation from locals and visitors alike.

A traditional fair held in December featuring food, artisanal products, and live music.

Unique Handicrafts: Showcases traditional Colombian handicrafts and art.
Local Cuisine: Offers a chance to taste authentic Cali cuisine.
Community Bonding: Promotes interaction between locals and visitors, fostering cultural exchange.

A street party held on August 15th to celebrate the Virgin Mary, featuring music, food, and dancing.

Religious Celebration: Honors the Virgin Mary with processions, prayers, and offerings.
Community Unity: Brings together Cali residents for a day of fun and celebration.
Lively Atmosphere: Features vibrant music, dancing, and food throughout the streets.

Known as the 'World Capital of Salsa', Cali offers numerous salsa clubs and dance schools.

Rich Dance Tradition: Offers a rich and authentic salsa dance experience.
Learning Opportunities: Provides opportunities for visitors to learn and practice salsa dancing.
Entertainment Venues: Features a variety of venues where visitors can enjoy live salsa music and dancing.

A popular park in Cali known for its giant Christmas tree and annual festivities.

Festive Atmosphere: Offers a lively, festive atmosphere during the holiday season.
Family-Friendly Activities: Provides family-friendly activities such as games and rides.
Local Culture: Encourages visitors to learn about Colombian culture and traditions.

A musical festival held in May celebrating the city's music and floral diversity.

Music Appreciation: Offers an appreciation of various genres of Colombian music.
Floral Beauty: Showcases the beautiful flora that Cali is known for.
Community Engagement: Encourages local and international musicians to perform and engage with the audience.

A museum dedicated to the history and evolution of salsa dance in Cali.

Historical Insights: Provides insights into the origins and development of salsa dance.
Dance Education: Offers educational programs on salsa dance techniques.
Cultural Preservation: Works towards preserving and promoting Colombian culture through dance.

A large park offering outdoor activities, such as cycling and hiking.

Natural Beauty: Showcases the natural beauty of Cali's surroundings.
Recreational Activities: Provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as cycling and hiking.
City Views: Offers panoramic views of the city from various viewpoints within the park.

An annual carnival celebration in February featuring music, dance, and colorful costumes.

Vibrant Culture: Showcases the vibrant culture of Cali through music, dance, and costumes.
Community Participation: Encourages local and international participation in the festivities.
Extravagant Costumes: Features extravagant, colorful costumes inspired by various themes.

A salsa dance school located in Parque Arbolito offering classes for visitors.

Learning Opportunities: Provides opportunities for visitors to learn and practice salsa dancing.
Professional Instructors: Offers instruction from professional, experienced salsa dancers.
Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience through the art of salsa dancing.

A park along the Rio Cali offering recreational activities and scenic views.

Scenic River Views: Offers beautiful, peaceful river views.
Recreational Activities: Provides opportunities for recreation such as cycling and picnicking.
Local Cuisine: Features food stalls offering traditional Colombian cuisine.

A horse fair held in October showcasing equestrian events and traditional Colombian culture.

Equestrian Events: Features various equestrian competitions and demonstrations.
Cultural Exhibits: Offers exhibits showcasing Colombian culture, particularly its relationship with horses.
Community Bonding: Promotes interaction between locals and visitors, fostering cultural exchange.

A festival celebrating Colombia's indigenous heritage, particularly the Legend of El Dorado.

Indigenous Culture: Showcases the rich culture and traditions of Colombia's indigenous communities.
Legendary Tales: Features storytelling, music, and dance inspired by El Dorado legends.
Community Engagement: Encourages local and international participation in the festivities.

A park featuring a traditional Indigenous maloka (house) and cultural exhibits.

Indigenous Heritage: Provides insights into the heritage and culture of Colombia's indigenous communities.
Traditional Architecture: Showcases traditional Indigenous architecture, such as the maloka.
Cultural Exchange: Encourages visitors to learn about and appreciate Colombian indigenous culture.

A religious celebration held in February dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Religious Tradition: Honors the Virgin Mary with processions, prayers, and offerings.
Local Culture: Encourages visitors to learn about Colombian culture and traditions.
Community Spirit: Brings together Cali residents for a day of fun and celebration.