National Day of the Sun celebrations
We can safely say that Buenos Aires is the most cosmopolitan and one of the most exciting cities in South America. Its busy agenda keeps tourists and locals alike well and truly entertained all year round, the reason for which this cultural capital receives so many visitors. This applies to the fabulous events that are currently taking place during the Christmas period and which are soon to be followed by the Fiesta Nacional del Sol (National Day of the Sun) taking place in Buenos Aires on the 22nd to the 26th of February 2011.
Every year, the inhabitants of the city San Juan gather together during the National Day of the Sun celebrations to show the creativity, the talent of the local artists, and the beauty of the local women which is demonstrated through the shows and performances taking place in the festival that takes over the city and dresses Buenos Aires in a multitude of colours. This year’s edition paying tribute to their national hero Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, or more specifically the bicentenary of his birth, promises to be an exceptional one.
From the 22nd to the 25th of February, the locals will be exhibiting the main activities in the province in the festival fair ground which will span over 40,000 metre squares. Festivalgoers will also find typical dishes of the region and see examples of the most important aspects of their culture there. In addition, over the duration of the event, popular national and regional artists will be taking to the stage to perform for the public.
The highlight of the National Day of the Sun festival is the “Currusel del Sol” or Carousel of the Sun in which each one of the 19 departments in the province introduce a float with motifs of landscapes, economic potential, legends, characters, and customs of the region. Starting at Avenida Ignacio de la Roza, these carousels will be making their way through the beautiful streets of Buenos Aires on the 25th of February over an almost 2 km course led by the Queen of the Sun candidates symbolising the history, production and the culture of each town. In addition, a cast of dancers dressed in striking outfits that portray their culture and donning face masks will follow behind the floats, adding a touch of originality to the parade.
These events are followed by almost 100,000 spectators who line the streets to receive the gifts that are generously given out from the floats, such as fruit or other presents. On the 26th, the festival will conclude in the Eduardo Copello motor racing track in Buenos Aires with the election of the Queen as is custom, an impressive firework display, dancing, music and an impressive light and sound show with a stunning set and hundreds of artists on stage.
So, if you’re lucky enough to be in Buenos Aires in February then make sure you head down to the national Day of the Sun festival which will be a fabulous insight into the culture and traditions of the inhabitants of San Juan, as well as an entertaining experience.
Anna – Marketing Team
