The 68th edition of the Cali Fair starts on December 25 with the Salsódromo along the Autopista Suroriental, featuring 2,200 dancers in five thematic wings under the theme 'From the barrio to the world'. This opening event highlights the city's cultural identity, focusing on neighborhoods and Cali salsa. The fair runs through December 30, with decentralized activities across various parts of Cali.
The 2025 Cali Fair, its 68th edition, opens on December 25 at 4:00 p.m. with the Salsódromo, the iconic parade along the Autopista Suroriental from Carrera 56 to the Carrera 39 bridge. This 18th edition of the event features 2,200 artists from 76 salsa schools, including 28 children's and 48 youth groups, a 40% increase from previous years according to Fabio Botero, Corfecali's manager.
The parade is organized into five thematic wings narrating Cali's cultural evolution: 'Cali a vapor' recalls origins through ancient transport; 'El tren de cercanías' symbolizes the future with children; the third wing highlights sports and international events; the fourth honors women; and the fifth celebrates popular festivities. Rolando Patiño, general producer, stressed: “This year we pay homage to the barrio and want to show the world how from the barrio emerge not only these dancers, but also how the city's economy is projected”.
A dress rehearsal on December 22 with 1,800 dancers fine-tuned lights and sound. Between 30,000 and 35,000 attendees are expected, supported by 400 logistics personnel. The fair includes the Rural and Community Fair in 37 neighborhoods from December 25 to 30, the Melómanos Encounter from 26 to 30 with international DJs, popular booths, and concerts like the Super Concert on the 27th with Marc Anthony and Víctor Manuelle, and Cali Vive Flow on the 28th.
Economically, the 2024 edition drew 646,412 visitors, 75% for the fair, totaling 1.5 million attendees, boosting tourism and local sectors. Artistic director Xiomar Rivas invited: “The public should be part of this beautiful parade”.
