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Culture &Events

Experience the vibrant soul of Medellín through its festivals, music, art, and warm Paisa hospitality.

UNESCO City of Music

Major Festivals

Feria de las Flores
August

The most important festival in Medellín

The iconic Flower Festival celebrates Medellín's flower-growing heritage with spectacular parades, traditional music, and the famous silleteros (flower carriers) who create intricate floral arrangements.

Highlights:

  • • Silleteros Parade (main event)
  • • Antique and Classic Car Parade
  • • Flower exhibitions and competitions
  • • Traditional folk music and dancing
  • • Street food and artisan markets
Poetry Festival
July

World's largest poetry festival

The International Poetry Festival brings together poets from around the world for readings, workshops, and cultural exchanges, transforming the city into a celebration of literature.

Features:

  • • 100+ international poets
  • • Free public readings in parks
  • • Poetry workshops and seminars
  • • Multilingual performances
  • • Community poetry initiatives

Music & Arts

Reggaeton & Urban Music

Medellín is the birthplace of many reggaeton stars including J Balvin and Maluma. Experience the urban music scene in local clubs and venues.

Global Influence
Traditional Folk Music

Experience authentic Paisa music including bambuco, pasillo, and vallenato at traditional venues and cultural centers throughout the city.

Cultural Heritage
Street Art Culture

From Comuna 13's transformation murals to downtown galleries, Medellín's street art tells stories of resilience and hope.

Urban Expression
Photography Scene

Medellín's transformation has inspired a vibrant photography community documenting urban change and social progress.

Visual Storytelling
Tango Heritage

Carlos Gardel, the "King of Tango," died in Medellín in 1935. The city honors his legacy with tango schools and festivals.

Historical Legacy
Electronic Music

A growing electronic music scene with world-class DJs, underground clubs, and electronic music festivals throughout the year.

Modern Scene

Annual Events Calendar

Spring Events

March - May

Holy Week ProcessionsMarch/April
Medellín Fashion WeekApril
Book FairMay
Summer Events

June - August

International Poetry FestivalJuly
Flower FestivalAugust
Altavoz Rock FestivalAugust
Fall Events

September - November

International Film FestivalSeptember
Jazz FestivalOctober
Day of the Dead CelebrationsNovember
Winter Events

December - February

Christmas Lights FestivalDecember
New Year CelebrationsJanuary
Tango FestivalFebruary

Paisa Culture & Traditions

The Paisa Spirit

Paisas are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, warmth, and strong work ethic. The culture emphasizes family values, hospitality, and community solidarity.

Traditional Paisa values include "berraquera" (determination and grit), innovation, and a deep connection to the land and coffee culture that shaped the region.

Visitors often comment on the genuine friendliness of Medellín residents, who take pride in sharing their city's transformation story with the world.

Cultural Characteristics

  • Hospitality: Warm welcome to visitors and strangers
  • Family-oriented: Strong family bonds and community ties
  • Entrepreneurial: Business-minded and innovative spirit
  • Festive: Love for music, dancing, and celebrations