Colombia: Colombia Flower Fair To Attract 18,000 Foreign Visitors

Colombia expects about 18,000 foreign visitors interested in attending the Festival of Flowers of Antioquia, a traditional celebration distinguished as Cultural Patrimony of the Nation that will begin on July 31, its organizers confirmed today.

For 10 days locals and tourists will be able to admire the floral arrangements prepared by the farmers and their families with about 80 varieties of ornamental plants, native from the village of Santa Elena, 12 kilometers from Medellin.

Such tradition dates back to 1957, when men and women of the area decided to publicly display the floristic diversity of the place and the kindness of the land, located in the northwest of the country.

Until then the colorful bouquets made by farmers were used only to adorn the altars of churches or homes.

After the success of the initiative, advocates of the practice decided to parade with their loads of glittering flowers on their backs every year, in Santa Elena and other cities, both Colombian and foreign.

This fair and the cultural tradition was honored as intangible heritage of Colombia, in recognition of its roots and authenticity.