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Villavicencio is known for its strong llanera culture, music and dance, and delicious gastronomy. People proudly celebrate each tradition with enthusiasm. One event that has shaped my identity as a llanera woman is the Carmentea del Llano Festival. It is held at Miguel Ángel Martín School, which was named after a famous singer and songwriter. The festival is organized every year between late August and early September by students and teachers, in collaboration with artists, dancers and the government.

Many talents are shown through joropo dances, songs, and cultural presentations. Colorful costumes are worn by dancers. These dresses must be handled with care due to their weight and complex design. While studying at Miguel Ángel Martín School, I was always involved in joropo classes. This amazing art form has shaped who I am.

Although I already graduated from Miguel Ángel Martín School, I still attend the festival to remember the times when I danced in those amazing, heavy colorful dresses. Every time I get the chance to participate (especially by dancing joropo) I must take it. My connection to this tradition continues to grow, and I feel proud to share it with my community and visitors.

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Festival of San Pedro in Neiva, Huila

Every year, in the middle of June, the Festival of San Pedro is celebrated in Neiva-Huila. This important tradition has been part of my life since childhood and represents one of the most joyful cultural experiences in my region. The city is filled with music, dances and different colorful costumes like food, posters and crafts; that reflect our pride and identity.

During the festival, typical dances such as bambuco are performed by dancers and musicians. Beautiful decorations were created by craftsmen and artists, who design traditional outfits that express our history. They prepare traditional dishes like lechona, tamal, asado huilense, achiras, insulso, and shared with families. Everyone can feel the happiness and unity that this event brings to the residents and visitors.

This celebration connects deeply with my identity because it shows how art and tradition can strengthen cultural values around the world. It also teaches that we must preserve our traditions and keep them alive. I believe that this celebration might inspire future generations to appreciate diversity.

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In Colombia, the Day of Candles is celebrated every year on December 7th. This beautiful tradition is known for its lights, joy, and family union. In my city, some streets are decorated with Christmas drawings. People light colorful candles, and in some cases, paper or cardboard lanterns are used to decorate the night. Music is played, and food is shared by neighbors and friends. This celebration is considered the beginning of the Christmas season across the country.

In my family, the first candles were lit by the children at sunset while adults

prepared delicious food inside the house. Traditional snacks such as buñuelos, natilla, and hot chocolate were made and shared with everyone. When I was little,

this day was enjoyed by all my cousins as one of the happiest of the year. The

atmosphere was filled with laughter, light, and love.

This tradition has shaped my identity because it teaches me the importance of

community and gratitude. However, I must remember that these values should be practiced not only during holidays but in everyday life. Through this celebration, I have learned that light represents hope and that unity can be shown through

simple but meaningful acts.