Festival del Gordo
The Festival del Gordo (Festival of the Fat One) is a traditional Colombian festival that celebrates the harvest and the abundance of food. The festival is held annually in the town of Aguadas, Caldas, and it attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country.
The festival is named after the “gordo,” or fat one, which is a large, stuffed pig that is the centerpiece of the festival. The gordo is made from the finest pork and it is decorated with colorful ribbons and flowers. The gordo is then paraded through the streets of Aguadas, followed by a procession of dancers, musicians, and other revelers.
The festival also features a variety of other activities, including a food fair, a crafts fair, and a music festival. The food fair offers a wide variety of traditional Colombian dishes, as well as international cuisine. The crafts fair features the work of local artisans, and the music festival features performances by some of the best musicians in the country.
The Festival del Gordo is a unique and colorful celebration of Colombian culture and tradition. The festival is a great opportunity to experience the country’s rich heritage and to enjoy some of its delicious food.
History of the Festival
The Festival del Gordo has its origins in the pre-Columbian era, when the indigenous people of Colombia celebrated the harvest with a festival called the “Festival of the Corn.” The festival was later adopted by the Spanish colonists, who added their own traditions to the celebration. The festival has been held in Aguadas since the early 19th century, and it has grown into one of the most popular festivals in the country.
The Gordo
The gordo is the centerpiece of the Festival del Gordo. The gordo is a large, stuffed pig that is made from the finest pork. The gordo is decorated with colorful ribbons and flowers, and it is paraded through the streets of Aguadas on the first day of the festival.
The gordo is a symbol of abundance and fertility, and it is believed to bring good luck to those who touch it. The gordo is also a popular target for thieves, and there have been several attempts to steal the gordo over the years. However, the gordo has always been recovered, and it continues to be a beloved symbol of the festival.
The Festival Today
The Festival del Gordo is a vibrant and colorful celebration of Colombian culture and tradition. The festival features a variety of activities, including a food fair, a crafts fair, and a music festival. The festival is a great opportunity to experience the country’s rich heritage and to enjoy some of its delicious food.
The Festival del Gordo is held annually in the town of Aguadas, Caldas. The festival begins on the first Sunday of January and lasts for three days. The festival is free to attend, and it is open to the public.
If You Go
If you are planning to attend the Festival del Gordo, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- The festival is very popular, so it is important to book your accommodations in advance.
- The weather in Aguadas can be hot and humid, so be sure to dress accordingly.
- The festival is a great opportunity to try some of Colombia’s delicious food, so be sure to come hungry.
- The festival is a safe and family-friendly event, so it is a great place to bring your children.
The Festival del Gordo is a unique and unforgettable experience. If you are looking for a way to experience Colombian culture and tradition, then the Festival del Gordo is the perfect place to start.
