Feria de Cali 2024 in Colombia

Every December, the streets of Cali, Colombia, come alive with the sounds of salsa, fireworks, and nonstop celebration during the Feria de Cali, one of the country's most exciting and vibrant festivals. Held from December 25 to December 30, this annual fair is a perfect way to end the year in style, attracting locals and visitors alike. Known as the "World Capital of Salsa," Cali turns into a cultural hub during this time, with music, dance, parades, and concerts transforming the city into a giant party. The atmosphere is electric, filled with rhythm, color, and joy, making it a must-visit event for any traveler wanting to experience the best of Colombian culture.

The Salsódromo

One of the biggest highlights of the Feria de Cali is the Salsódromo, a vibrant and high-energy salsa parade that kicks off the fair on December 25. Picture thousands of dancers, professional and amateur, moving in perfect synchrony to the infectious beats of salsa music. The parade showcases the city's incredible salsa talent, with dance schools and teams performing stunning routines. The atmosphere is electric as the dancers, dressed in colorful costumes, move down the streets, accompanied by floats, live bands, and cheering crowds. It's a celebration of Cali’s salsa culture and one of the most anticipated events of the fair. For salsa lovers, the Salsódromo is an unforgettable spectacle, blending tradition with modern flair.

The Superconcierto

Another major attraction is the Superconcierto, a massive concert that brings together some of the biggest names in salsa, reggaeton, vallenato, and other Latin music genres. Held at Cali's Estadio Olímpico Pascual Guerrero, this event draws thousands of fans who come to see their favorite artists perform live. The lineup changes every year but typically features internationally renowned stars, making it one of the most important concerts in Latin America. The Superconcierto is not just about the music; it’s about the experience. The stadium comes alive with vibrant lights, incredible sound, and a crowd that’s ready to dance the night away. It's a highlight of the Feria de Cali and a night you won’t forget.

Other Highlights of the Feria

In addition to the Salsódromo and the Superconcierto, the Feria de Cali also features tascas (food stalls) offering delicious local cuisine, bullfights, horse parades, and other cultural events throughout the city. One more wonderful event during the festival is the classic and unique car parade, where you can see vintage and luxurious cars. Visitors can also enjoy various dance competitions, art exhibitions, and craft fairs, making the festival an immersive experience that showcases Cali's artistic diversity.

While visiting the city you can try different clubs and parties where you can learn to dance salsa with the locals. The nightlife in the city is amazing with a truly fantastic atmosphere. The best places where you can enjoy dancing and learning salsa are Tin Tin Deo, La Topa Tolondra, Zaperoco, and Delirio. You can find plenty of good drinks and traditional food as well!

Feria de Cali History

The Feria de Cali dates back to 1957 when the city decided to hold a fair after a year of hardship due to political unrest. Since then, it has grown into a week-long celebration of Cali's resilience, culture, and love for salsa. Originally called Feria de la Caña, it was created to promote the sugarcane industry, but over the years, it evolved into a broader cultural event focused on music, dance, and the rich traditions of the region. The fair plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting salsa music, as well as Cali’s identity as a cultural and musical hotspot in Colombia. For the people of Cali, the Feria represents joy, unity, and the celebration of life itself.