Cali Fair 2026: Complete Guide with Expected Dates and Practical Tips

Cali Fair 2026: The Pulse of Salsa and Joy in Colombia's Southwest

From December 25th to 30th, 2026, Cali dresses up for celebration. The Cali Fair isn't just an event; it's the heartbeat of a city that breathes salsa, tradition, and joy. Since its beginnings in 1957, this celebration has woven the identity of Caleños, blending horse parades, massive concerts, and the unique flavor of local cuisine. For 2026, the fair promises to be a rebirth, a space where visitors and locals meet on streets that vibrate to the rhythm of music and revelry. If you're coming from out of town, you'll fall in love with that energy that only Cali knows how to give.

Expected Dates and Events for 2026

The expected dates for Cali Fair 2026 are from December 25th to 30th, 2026, following the traditional annual format, according to Wise and promotional guides, but the official site has not yet confirmed the calendar. Based on consolidated research as of February 6, 2026 and past traditions, activities similar to previous editions are expected, but no events are officially confirmed for 2026. The detailed schedule will be published closer to the event on the official site. As a reference, here are probable events based on historical patterns:

• December 25th: Official opening and Salsódromo (salsa school parade). In previous editions, like 2025, it took place on the Autopista Suroriental, but for 2026 there is no official information, according to Caracol.
• December 26th: Float and comparsa parade "Fiesta Mi Pueblo". Similar to 2025, celebrated on the Autopista Suroriental, but not confirmed for 2026.
• December 27th: Classic car parade and Super Concert (paid event with national and international artists). Artists for 2026 are not confirmed; in 2025, it featured Marc Anthony, Víctor Manuelle, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, among others, according to El País.
• December 28th: Carnaval de Cali Viejo (tribute to traditions). Expected activity based on past years, without confirmation for 2026.
• December 29th: Calle de la Feria (live music and urban shows). Common in past editions, but details for 2026 are pending.
• December 30th: Closing with cultural activities and concerts. No official announcements for 2026.

To date, according to the consolidated research of February 6, 2026, there are no official announcements from the Cali Mayor's Office for the 2026 edition, and sources like the official site do not show programming for 2026.

For more details, refer to the 2025 program PDF as a reference and monitor the official site and Corfecali for updates.

Concerts, Parades, and Highlighted Activities

Salsa is the soul of the fair, but confirmed artists for 2026 have not been announced yet. According to consolidated research of February 6, 2026, there is no confirmed lineup, and sources like Caracol and LAFM indicate that detailed information is not available. In the 2025 edition, the Super Concert featured prominent artists, but for 2026, it's recommended to monitor official sources for updates. Beyond the stages, don't miss the parades and cultural activities showcasing Caleño heritage, though their details for 2026 are pending.

Practical Tips: Accommodation, Transportation, Safety

Accommodation: Book months in advance. Areas like Granada and San Fernando offer hotels near the events, but options in neighborhoods like Versalles or El Peñón may be more economical. Consider platforms like Airbnb for longer stays and look in safe neighborhoods like Ciudad Jardín.

Transportation: For 2026, according to consolidated information as of February 6, 2026, the MIO system is expected to operate on habitual hours, similar to previous editions. It's recommended to plan trips in advance and check the official Metro Cali site for real-time updates, as there is no confirmed specific information for 2026. Avoid driving; use taxis or apps like Uber, especially at night. For massive events, arrive at least two hours early.

Safety: Keep valuables in discreet places. In crowds, stay in groups and follow instructions from the Tourist Police. Drink water and use sunscreen; December in Cali is sunny and hot.

Tickets: For specific events in 2026, information on ticket sales is not yet available, according to consolidated research of February 6, 2026. Platforms like QR Boletos, Colboletos, and Vive Boletos do not show options for Cali Fair 2026. In previous editions, like 2025, tickets were sold through partners like Masboletos, but for 2026 it's not confirmed. Monitor the official site and Corfecali for official announcements.

Recommendations to Maximize Your Fair Experience

Experience the fair like a local: start your day with a champús (typical drink) at a street stall. Take advantage of mornings to visit places like the Gato de Tejada or the Salsa Museum, less crowded during these dates. In the afternoons, let yourself be carried away by the music in parks like El Ingenio, where spontaneous salsa circles emerge. Try the cuisine at the Food Fair, but also at restaurants in the Juanchito neighborhood, the heart of Caleño nightlife. And above all, wear comfortable shoes; Cali during the fair is meant for walking and dancing.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cali Fair 2026

• What's the best way to buy tickets for concerts? Tickets for specific 2026 events are not on sale yet, as the program is not complete, according to consolidated research of February 6, 2026. In previous editions, they were sold through platforms like Masboletos, but for 2026 there is no confirmation. Monitor the official site for updates.
• Are there free events during the fair? Yes, events like the Salsódromo and cultural activities are usually free and open to the public, based on past traditions, but check with the official program once published for 2026.
• What should I bring to outdoor events? Sunscreen, water, hat or cap, and comfortable shoes. Afternoons can be hot.
• Is it safe to travel to Cali during the fair? Yes, but take basic precautions as you would in any large city during massive events.

The Cali Fair 2026 is more than an event schedule; it's an experience felt in your feet to the rhythm of a montuno piano and in your soul when sharing with a city that opens its doors. As Caleños say: Long live the fair!