Cali may be Colombia’s salsa capital, but Medellin is home to the country’s annual salsa festival (or Congress, as they’re called in Western countries).
This weekend, from July 8 – 10, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana (UPB) hosts the 3rd Colombia Salsa Festival.
The Festival is a mix of dance classes, competitions, concerts and social dancing.
Singers
- Andy Montañez (Puerto Rico)
- Son de Cali (Cali)
- Aguanilé Salsa (Medellín)
Dancers
- Griselle Ponce (Puerto Rico)
- Baila Society (USA)
- BNF Dubái (World Champions)
- And the best salsa groups from Cali and Bogota
There are a variety of ticket options to suit everyone’s needs and budgets. Here are just a few:
- Full Pass (all workshops, VIP access for Fri + Sat night concerts/social dancing): 259,000 COP ($147)
- VIP Pass Friday (Semifinal competition, concert w/Andy Montanez + Son de Cali): 86,000 COP ($49)
- VIP Pass Saturday (Final competition, concert w/Aguanile Salsa): 45,000 COP ($26)
VIP tickets allow you to have a seat and table near the dance floor. Of course Aguardiente and Rum are available to fuel your dancing throughout the night.
I was lucky enough to attend the 1st Colombia Salsa Festival in 2009, which was a blast.
I ran into my dance teacher, Yamile, at the door and she invited me and my friend Astrid to join her at a table (normally reserved for VIP ticket holders).
I was able to dance with her, and her friends, while sharing the floor with some of the world’s best salsa dancers, including Junior and Emily Alibi (USA).
If you love salsa music and dancing, then don’t miss the 2011 Colombia Salsa Festival. For much more info, check out the official site.
See you on the dance floor!
Looks like a great time Dave!