Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata – Colombia (26 April to 3 May)
Vallenato music’s most emblematic event returns to Colombia’s Caribbean coast for its 58ᵉ edition. Valledupar is gearing up to host this major celebration with a rich programme including performances by national and international artists, competitions, parades and cultural activities. The festivities kick off with the Parade of the Piloneras, a traditional dance competition in which groups compete in children’s, youth and adult categories to win first prize.
As well as its iconic concerts – featuring stars of the musical genre such as Chayanne and Silvestre Dangond – the festival is also renowned for its unique competitions, such as the Original Vallenato Song Contest and the ‘Piquería’, a musical verbal joust in which singers improvise satirical verses. This year’s festival will pay tribute to the King of Vallenato Omar Geles, a composer whose legacy spans generations.
Our article: The rhythms of Colombia: the Vallenato
IRONMAN 70.3 Cap Cana – Dominican Republic (4 May)
Part of the IRONMAN 70.3 world series, this triathlon is expected to attract more than 2,000 amateur and professional athletes from over 30 countries to the challenge over a total distance of 113km, divided into three disciplines: a 1.9km swim, a 90km cycle and a 21.1km half-marathon. The name of the event comes from this combined distance, equivalent to 70.3 miles.
All participants who finish the race receive a medal, and the winners in the various categories are awarded special prizes at the closing ceremony. This event is a qualifier for the World Championship in Taupō, New Zealand.
Day of the Battle of Puebla – Mexico (5 May)
Contrary to what many people think, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day. It commemorates the victory of the Mexican army over French forces in 1862. With over a million spectators, the city of Puebla – 130 km from Mexico City – comes alive with parades, equestrian processions and richly decorated floats. Among the highlights of the day are the civilian and military parades attended by the President of Mexico, who reviews the armed forces, and the re-enactment of the battle in period costume.
Expotur Travel Mart – Costa Rica (7 to 10 May)
Expotur will be celebrating its 38ᵉ edition at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in San José. This key event for tourism in Costa Rica connects local service providers with a select group of 120 international buyers through pre-programmed one-to-one meetings.
Santiago Marathon – Chile (18 May)
This marathon is a celebration of sport in the heart of Santiago, one of Latin America’s most dynamic capitals. Launched from the famous Palacio de La Moneda, there will be three courses for athletes to choose from, depending on their level: 10 km, half-marathon (21 km) and full marathon (42 km). There will also be a Running Expo, where participants can collect their numbers and enjoy activities and exhibitions on sport and well-being.
Sustainable and Social Tourism Summit – Costa Rica (20-23 May)
After eight editions in Mexico, the Sustainable and Social Tourism Summit is moving to the San José Convention Centre to focus on the central theme of “Tourism from a community perspective”. The aim is to strengthen international networks to accelerate the transition to ethical tourism, with a focus on preserving natural resources and local participation. More than 390 international exhibitors from 50 countries and 4,800 professionals are expected at this ninth edition. As every year, the 4ᵉ Ibero-American Prize for Sustainable and Social Tourism will reward the most innovative projects.
