Cali fair

By Livaniel Gil Sánchez 

In Colombia there are some of the most important festivals of Latin America. However, I think that the most exciting of those festivals is Cali Fair or “La Feria de Cali”. The first Cali Fair was in 1957 and since then, it has been a tradition not only for the people of Cali, but also for people from other cities of Colombia and even foreigns.

Cali Fair is always at the end of the year, after Christmas and before New Year. If you have the chance to go to this Fair, here you have three things to do before the Fair finished. First, you have to go to a Salsa Concert then you need to attend the parade of the fair and why don´t you try testing typical Cali food?

When the people listen to “Cali” the first thing that comes to mind is Salsa, and it’s true. Salsa is like a religion for Cali people, you can breath it in the atmosphere. Therefore, you have to go to a Salsa concert in Cali Fair. There isn’t a famous salsa’s artist that has not been presented in the Fair. From Celia Cruz, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, Cheo Feliciano and other local groups like Guayacan and Niche. Those artists have presented their best performances on stages of the Fair. In one night you can have many options to choose. Some of those options are free and others you have to pay, but I’m sure you won´t regret.

Besides, you have to attend the parade of the Fair. If you want to know all about the cultures and traditions of Cali and its people, the parade is the place and the moment for that. This parade is formed by dancing companies of all the neighborhoods of Cali. Each one represents an aspect of the local tradition. You will see the expression of the black race and its importance in the origins of Cali. Also you’re going to see some customs like ride pot (paseo de olla), red devils (diablos rojos), hairdressers, antique cars and, of course, salsa dancers. This parade is free and it lasts almost three hours. You only need water and you´d better use sunscreen because the weather in Cali is too warm and the parade is in the street.

Cali, like all places, has its typical food and although you can eat this food anywhere in the world, only in Cali it tastes different. I think that one of the main characteristics of the food of Cali is excess seasoning. It is good if you don’t have problems whit your health. But, there are some typical dishes that everybody can eat, the Aborrajado is like a dessert, if you want, this is a plantain with cheese inside. Other one is Champús, this is a mix based in honey (melao) and corn, and also it has fruits. And the other meal that you need to try in Cali is a fruit Chontaduro this is good with honey and salt. About the food you need to be with open mind and all the attitude to enjoy eating all.

Even, there are many options to go to the end of the year. I would rather Cali and its Fair. The salsa, parade and food are some of the reasons to enjoy in family. Actually, there is the main of the Fair, to return to the origins, to the family. Son, no matter if you are local or foreign, the Fair invites you to do part of this tradition.