The Manizales Fair

The Manizales Fair is one of Colombia’s most important cultural celebrations, blending tradition, music, sports, art, and entertainment in the heart of the Coffee Region. Every year it brings together thousands of visitors in Manizales, Caldas, with activities for all ages across the city. The 2026 edition promises nine days of festivities full of music, parades, competitions, and cultural experiences.

Travel to Manizales by bus with redBus and use the promotional code HORADEVIAJEto save up to 20% on your first trip (T&Cs apply) and be part of this incredible celebration.

What is the Manizales Fair?

The Manizales Fair dates back decades as a celebration of regional culture, hospitality, and community pride. It features a diverse program of concerts, artistic showcases, parades, cultural events, sports competitions, and traditional festivities that highlight the identity of Manizales and its surrounding regions.

When is it celebrated?

The Manizales Fair 2026 will take place from January 3 to January 11, 2026, with over 300 scheduled events including free concerts, cultural and sporting activities, exhibitions, and more throughout the city.

How to get to Manizales by bus?

You can travel from many cities across Colombia. Bus travel is ideal for those who want to enjoy scenic landscapes and arrive directly at the heart of the festivities in Manizales. With redBus you can compare prices and schedules, choose your preferred seat, and travel comfortably to the Manizales Fair.

• Attend concerts and cultural shows

The fair features a busy line-up of free performances in central venues like Plaza de Bolívar, with artists ranging from local talents to big national stars.

• Enjoy traditional parades and events

Parades such as the Carretas del Rocío, the Nations Parade, and the Solemn Parade of Nuestra Señora de la Macarena attract crowds and showcase colorful floats and traditions.

• Experience the International Queen of Coffee pageant

The International Queen of Coffee competition celebrates coffee culture with contestants from around the world and is one of the fair’s most iconic events.

• Participate in sports and competitions

The fair includes sporting events such as downhill urban races, soccer tournaments, billiards, BMX, motovelocidad (motorbike racing), and more, often spread across different city venues.

• Explore artisan markets and food stands

Cultural and artisan fairs offer local crafts, food experiences, and products that highlight regional flavors and traditions.

• Family-friendly fun

From interactive activities for children to outdoor attractions and community shows, there’s entertainment for the whole family throughout the nine days.

Tips for your trip to the Manizales Fair

🚌 Buy your bus tickets well in advance, especially during high season.

📲 Use the code HORADEVIAJE for a discount on your first trip.

🎶 Check the official schedule so you don’t miss your favorite concerts or events.

📸 Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the best moments.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 If traveling with a group, book multiple tickets together for convenience.

What is redBus?

redBus is Colombia’s leading online platform for booking bus tickets. It lets you compare prices, schedules, and bus companies in one place, so you can travel comfortably, quickly, and economically.

With redBus, you can also enjoy exclusive promotions like HORADEVIAJE, valid for a limited time, to save up to 20% on your bus tickets and explore cultural and tourist destinations across Colombia.

How to buy bus tickets on redBus?

1) Visit redBus via the website or app.

2) Choose your departure and destination cities.

 

3) Select your travel date in January.

4) Compare schedules, prices, and services.

5) Add your promotional code HORADEVIAJE.