National Festival of the Trova

The National Festival of the Trova is a unique cultural event held during Medellín’s Feria de las Flores, celebrating the traditional art of “trova”—a form of improvised, poetic singing that is an integral part of Colombian folklore. This festival brings together the best trovadores, or trova singers, from across Colombia to compete in a lively and engaging contest.

The trovadores are known for their quick wit, creativity, and lyrical skill, often addressing humorous, satirical, or socially relevant topics in their verses. The competition is structured in rounds, where participants face off in a battle of words, creating verses on the spot based on given themes or prompts. The audience plays a crucial role, reacting to the performances and often participating in the judging process. The National Festival of the Trova is a celebration of linguistic dexterity, cultural expression, and the rich oral traditions of Colombia.

It attracts large crowds who come to enjoy the clever wordplay and the festive atmosphere. This event is a highlight of the Feria de las Flores, reflecting the importance of music and storytelling in Colombian culture and providing a platform for preserving and promoting the art of trova.