I know that many people must be tired of me talking so much about our tradition, but in a world where cultures face constant changes and challenges, it is vital to hold on to our roots with pride and dedication. The Vallenata Legend Festival gives us the perfect opportunity to do just that: reconnect with our traditions, reaffirm our identity and transmit that invaluable legacy to future generations.
Every accordion chord, every verse of a vallenato song, every dance step in the piloneras parade, It is a living testimony of our history and our cultural heritage. They are authentic expressions of the joy, pain, love and life itself of our people.
Therefore, beyond being just spectators of this festival, we must be active participants and committed to the preservation and promotion of our traditions. It is our responsibility, as Vallenato citizens and as guardians of our culture.ensuring that the legacy of our ancestors remains alive and vibrant in the hearts and minds of generations to come.
So, as we immerse ourselves in the festive atmosphere of the Vallenata Legend Festival, let us always remember the deep purpose behind this celebration: exalt and protect our Vallenato identity with passion and devotion. With the same, I leave you an account of our traditions so that you can relive more every day with our presence.
The Great Parade of the Vallenata Legend Festival 2024
On Thursday, May 2, 2024, Valledupar, Cesar, will come to life in a special way. It is the day of the Great Parade of the Vallenata Legend Festival, a tradition that dates back to 1987. At that time, the inaugural parade, modest and simple on par with our parade of pyloneras, marked the beginning of a celebration that has lasted for more than four decades. Over time, the parade has evolved to become a majestic exhibition of Vallenato culture and tradition. What was once a parade of between thirty and forty horses has today been transformed into an impressive procession of approximately eight hundred, a testament to the roots and passion for this tradition.
The meticulous logistics provided by the Association of Caballistas del Cesar – REINS behind the parade guarantees the safety and well-being of all participants. From the presence of the Mounted Police to the hydration and rest points for the horses, every detail is carefully taken care of so that the event runs smoothly.
This year, the Great Vallenata Legend Festival Parade promises to be grander than ever. With the participation of delegations from all over the country, the event aims to offer a unique experience that will delight to those who come from outside and to the owners of the house.
Our traditional Piloneras Parade
The piloneras parade is traditionally held as the official opening to the largest vallenato festival in the world. On different days, groups of piloneras in senior, youth and children’s categories prepare a special choreography to the rhythm of the pilon and present it throughout the parade.
On April 30, the Piloneras Parade in Valleduparwith children’s and youth categories, starting at school Alfonso Lopez and ending at the monument Piece accordion at two in the afternoon. The senior category parade will be on May 1, starting from the same school towards the Parque de la Vallenata Legend Consuelo Araujonoguera at one in the afternoon.
The contests where the melody becomes magic
The competitions at the Vallenata Legend Festival are of vital importance to keep the tradition alive and promote excellence in the interpretation of the genre. The event covers all cultural facets of the region.
The contests of 57th Vallenata Legend Festival will take place in various settings in Valledupar: Plaza Alfonso López for the Professional Accordion, Parque de los Algarrobillos for the Major and Amateur Accordion PlayerPedro Castro Monsalvo Livestock Fair for the Unpublished Vallenata Song, La Pedregosa Recreation Center for the Youth, Minor and Children’s Accordion, and Unicentro Shopping Center for the Major and Minor Piqueria.
The Vallenato Festival awaits us with open arms to immerse ourselves in an experience that transcends the ordinary! It is more than a simple event, it is an opportunity to embrace our roots with enthusiasm and dedication. Every moment invites us to celebrate and preserve our Vallenato identity with pride. Days full of music, dance and tradition await us, and I am excited to share this unique experience with all of you.
See you at the Vallenata Legend Festival!