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Feria de las Flores is Medellín’s biggest annual festival and normally starts in August. La Feria de las Flores 2024 (Festival of Flowers) has been scheduled from August 02 to 11.

The 10-day festival is a huge annual celebration of paisa culture. This year is the 67th annual Feria de las Flores in Medellín. Also, this festival is the most important social event for the city of Medellín. And the Flower Festival is one of the best ways to get an authentic taste of the local culture.

Parade of Silleteros in Feria de las Flores Medellin - Photo by El Pais
Parade of Silleteros in Feria de las Flores Medellin - Photo by El Pais

We will share the highlight events of this year’s festival, as well as some expat tips so you can enjoy  events.

The official Feria de las Flores 2024 website is where you can register online for main events. The main events for Feria de las Flores 2024 will have limited and controlled access. Here is a link to the entire official schedule for Feria de las Flores in Spanish, and additionaly, at Medellin Guru we created a totally free Guide in English with all the events of the flower festival in Medellin. To get it, just click in the green button below and you would be able to download it.

FERIA DE LAS FLORES Guide

Download the Flower Festival 2024 Guide and know more about the events programmed for Feria de las Flores Medellin 2024 in english.

History of Feria de las Flores – the Medellín Flower Festival

The Feria de las Flores, or Flower Festival, is an iconic cultural event in Medellín, Colombia, celebrated annually to honor the region’s rich floral heritage. The festival’s origins date back to 1957, when it was first organized by Arturo Uribe Arango, a member of the Medellín Tourism Board. Initially a modest celebration, the festival sought to promote the cultivation of flowers in the region and highlight the unique tradition of the “silleteros” from the nearby town of Santa Elena.

Silleteros of Santa Elena in Feria de las Flores - Photo by Alcaldía de Medellin
Silleteros of Santa Elena in Feria de las Flores - Photo by Alcaldía de Medellin

“Silleteros” are farmers known for crafting intricate floral arrangements on wooden frames called “silletas.” Historically, these farmers would carry their flower-laden silletas to Medellín to sell their blooms. The tradition of the silletas became a central feature of the festival, leading to the creation of the “Desfile de Silleteros” (Silleteros Parade), which remains the festival’s most emblematic event.

Silleteros of Santa Elena prepare their silletas every year for the flower festival - Photo by W Radio
Silleteros of Santa Elena prepare their silletas every year for the flower festival - Photo by W Radio

Over the years, the Feria de las Flores has grown significantly, evolving into a ten-day celebration that includes a wide range of activities such as parades, music concerts, flower exhibitions, and cultural shows.

If you want to know more about the history of Feria de las Flores Medellin, read our blog about it here

Top Events Parades Concerts Shows in Feria de Las Flores 2024

Official Inauguration of Feria de las Flores 2024

The official inauguration of the Feria de las Flores 2024 marks the beginning of this annual festival, which typically includes a series of parades, cultural events, music concerts, and exhibitions. In the past, the inauguration was celebrated with a big concert, but this year there will be two separate events.

The inauguration ceremony is a festive event, often held at a significant venue in Medellín, and attended by local dignitaries, artists, and residents. It usually features speeches, traditional music and dance performances, and a spectacular display of floral arrangements. 

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Súper Concierto of Feria de las Flores Medellin 2024

The 2024 Súper Concierto de Feria de las Flores will be headlined by Ana Gabriel (Mexican singer of mariachi ranchera music), Nicky Jam (Colombian singer of latin and reguéton Music), Marc Anthony (US singer of salsa music), Xavi (Mexican singer of regional music), Elder Dayán (Colombian singer of Vallenato), Fonseca (Colombian singer of tropical music), and Proyecto Uno (Dominican Merengue music group).

For this big concert, we recommend buying the best tickets and arrive earlier than normal. You’ll get in faster (possibly saving an hour or more of waiting in line). Tickets for the concert last year were on sale at TuBoleta.

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Parade of Avenida Primavera: Calle, Ritmos y Flores

This is a lively and colorful parade showcases a vibrant mix of artistic floats, musical performances, and traditional dances, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage and festive spirit. Held on Avenida Primavera, a prominent avenue in Medellín, the parade features intricately decorated floats adorned with thousands of flowers, each representing different themes and stories. 

Participants in the parade include local artists, musicians, dancers, and community groups who bring the streets to life with diverse musical rhythms, from traditional Colombian cumbia and salsa to modern genres. The floats themselves are often designed to celebrate various aspects of Colombian culture, history, and nature, making the parade not only a visual spectacle but also a cultural showcase.

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Desfile de Autos Clásicos y Antiguos (Parade of Cars Classics and Antiques)

This is one of the most popular events during Medellín’s Feria de las Flores. This parade features an impressive collection of meticulously restored and preserved vintage vehicles, ranging from early 20th-century models to iconic cars from the mid-20th century. Participants, often dressed in period costumes, showcase a variety of cars, including convertibles, muscle cars, and rare models, each representing different styles and eras of automotive design.

The parade is not only a visual delight for car enthusiasts but also a nostalgic celebration of automotive history. It attracts large crowds, including families and tourists, who enjoy the opportunity to admire the craftsmanship and design of these classic vehicles. This event is a beloved tradition in the Feria de las Flores, reflecting Medellín’s appreciation for automotive heritage and providing an educational and entertaining experience for all attendees.

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67.° Desfile de Silleteros (67th Silleteros Parade)

This parade celebrates the tradition of the “silleteros,” farmers from the nearby town of Santa Elena who carry large, intricately designed floral arrangements on their backs. These arrangements, known as “silletas,” are created using a variety of flowers, including roses, lilies, and orchids, arranged in elaborate patterns that often reflect cultural, historical, or social themes.

In its 67th edition, the parade features over 530 participants, showcasing their artistic skills and the region’s rich floral diversity. The event attracts thousands of spectators, who come to admire the vibrant displays and the dedication of the silleteros. This parade is not only a visual spectacle but also a celebration of Colombia’s agricultural heritage and the resilience of its people. It’s a highlight of the Feria de las Flores, reflecting Medellín’s deep-rooted connection to its floral traditions and community spirit.

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Other events in Feria de las Flores Medellin 2024

In Medellin Guru we have created a list of the best events of the fair. Check out the details of each one here.

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FERIA DE LAS FLORES Guide

Download the Flower Festival 2024 Guide and know more about the events programmed for Feria de las Flores Medellin 2024 in english.

Security tips to be safe during the Flower Festival in Medellin

Medellin is a beautiful city with a rich culture and diverse landscape to explore and when you choose it as your next destination, it is essential to be aware of many safety and behavior facts.

  • Register for events online

    Download the Guide and call or send a text to the phones attached.

  • Watch your belongings

    Unscrupulous people take advantage and commit crimes. Take particular care with smart phones, which are the most commonly stolen items in Medellín. See our article about security for more safety tips.

  • Mobilize yourself with friends or groups, especially at night

    If possible, attend the different group activities. At the Feria de las Flores there are many events that take place at night. You can make groups with friends or coordinate meetings in our official Facebook group.

  • Bring your documents with you

    You should carry your ID with you – your cedula if you have one or a copy of your passport.

  • Use a money belt or hidden pouch to prevent theft

    You should be careful not to store your personal items in the clothes you are wearing. Pockets of jeans, pants, jackets or shirts are the most common to be violated.

  • Stay present and aware of your surroundings

    Never lose focus on the present moment. Observe well the people around you, and the place where you are.

  • Be careful exploring the city

    Be careful while you're exploring different neighborhoods and interacting with locals.

  • Avoid consuming alcohol in excess

    The most important thing as an expat is to leave a good example in every country we visit. Therefore, it is essential to be controlled in terms of the consumption of spirits to maintain an appropriate behavior.

  • Attend events with comfortable clothes

    It can be hot so dress appropriately. Bring an umbrella, you never know when it may rain in Medellín.

  • Ask for help in case of emergency

    Remember there are trained personnel at all the events for emergencies.

  • Public Transportation

    Use public transport such as buses, taxis and the Medellín Metro system to get to events, as parking is limited.

  • Get a Health Insurance

    Traveling to a new place can be overwhelming, and safety is always a top priority. It's essential to remain vigilant and cautious to ensure you have a great experience in the country. An assistance policy covering various events, like document loss or medical emergencies, can provide peace of mind during your time in Medellin.

Assist Card Flower Festival

Stay Protected at the Flower Festival!

Safeguard your well-being with health insurance and anticipate an unforgettable experience at the Flower Festival Medellin 2024, enjoying the best safety and health care benefits.

While visiting or living in Colombia, it’s always better to be prepared for emergencies and stay safe with your loved ones. That’s why we’ve created an emergency guide with all the essential numbers you might need to call in an emergency.

The FREE Colombia Emergency Directory guide includes:

Find out your embassy contact information

Knowing your embassy’s location and contact information is essential for a foreigner living or traveling in Colombia. Embassies provide various services, such as consular assistance and emergency services, to their citizens. In an emergency, your embassy can provide you with important information and support, including legal aid, medical care, and help replacing lost or stolen passports. You can find any Embassy located in Colombia through the Official Directory of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps accredited in Colombia.

Also, if you’re from the United States, we made a Safety Guide for US Citizens in Colombia that provides emergency contact information for Americans visiting the country. The FREE safety guide exclusive for Americans includes:

Medellin Guru Guides

Download Safety Guide for US Citizens in Colombia we have created with helpful information about Medellín and Colombia.

Medellin Guru's comprehensive Colombian culture series

Other things to see and do in Colombia

  1. Caño Cristales – the most beautiful river in Colombia, which has also been called the most beautiful river in the world by some people.
  2. Carnival in Barranquilla – the second largest carnival in the world.
  3. Cartagena – Oozing history, romance and sun-drenched beaches, the allure of historical Cartagena is hard to resist.
  4. Ciudad Perdida – the site of an ancient city in Colombia that is older than Machu Picchu in Peru.
  5. Colombia’s Pacific coast – often overlooked by tourists visiting Colombia but offering untamed nature and undiscovered beauty that is off the beaten path for most foreign tourists.
  6. Desierto de la Tatacoa – the second largest arid zone in Colombia is Tatacoa Desert, which has surreal desert landscapes and some of the best stargazing in Colombia.
  7. Guatapé – a picturesque pueblo near Medellín known for its huge rock and lake. And it’s likely the most visited pueblo in Colombia by foreigners.
  8. La Guajira Peninsula – one of the most visually stunning places in South America, which is located on the northern tip of Colombia where the desert meets the sea.
  9. Las Lajas Sanctuary – the most beautiful church in Colombia, which has also been called the most beautiful church in the world.
  10. Medellín’s Christmas lights – Medellín’s annual world-class Christmas lights known as Alumbrados Navideños.
  11. Feria de Las Flores Medellin  – Medellín’s world-famous flower festival each year.
  12. Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados – a popular national park in Colombia located in the heart of the Colombian coffee region.
  13. Parque Tayrona – known for its beautiful beaches and the world’s highest coastal mountain range.
  14. Popayán – a colonial gem in Colombia best known for its white buildings and churches, it’s a city off the beaten path for foreign tourists but is definitely worth visiting.
  15. Rio Claro Nature Reserve – located about three hours from Medellín, Rio Claro is the perfect place to unplug from hectic daily life and enjoy a picturesque crystal-clear river, canyon and tropical rainforest.
  16. Salento and the Cocora Valley – Salento is a picturesque pueblo in Colombia’s coffee region and the nearby Cocora Valley is one of the most striking landscapes found in Colombia.
  17. San Agustín Archaeological Park – the largest group of pre-Columbian monuments and megalithic statues in South America and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  18. San Andrés – Colombia’s Caribbean island which is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve featuring many beaches, islets and coral reefs that are filled with flora and fauna.
  19. San Gil – Colombia’s adventure capital that is full of things to do including white water rafting, paragliding, caving, rappelling, hiking and much more.
  20. San Jose del Guaviare – a hidden gem and eco-tourism location off the beaten path and offering wildlife watching, jungle trekking and delving into Colombia’s prehistoric past.

FERIA DE LAS FLORES Guide

Download the Flower Festival 2024 Guide and know more about the events programmed for Feria de las Flores Medellin 2024 in english.

The Bottom Line: Feria de las Flores Medellin 2024 – the Flower Festival Medellin

In 2024, Feria de las Flores will reach new heights with its grand event, the Flower Parade, taking center stage at the city’s largest soccer stadium. This year’s festival promises to be the most spectacular flower celebration ever, featuring an unprecedented display of vibrant floral artistry and creativity, albeit with limited access. Prepare for an extraordinary experience as the Feria de las Flores unfolds in its most impressive form yet.

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