Colombia rolls out festivals and security ahead of presidential inauguration

Bucaramanga is preparing the 77th Feria Bonita, coordinating more than 70 events with municipal, police, health and civil‑defence agencies to ensure safety and organization. In Bogotá, the Festival de Verano 2026 runs from 31 July to 31 August, featuring over 60 activities—including a beach‑volleyball circuit, swimming races, concerts and a night‑time Ciclovía – with Mexico as guest of honor. The city will also host a free cinema day on 6 August, showing ten films about Bogotá and a discussion with actress Flora Martínez. Cartagena’s neighbourhoods are celebrating August with music, sports and patronal traditions across districts such as Perín, La Azohía and Islas Menores. Security forces will fully staff the roads of Risaralda from 6‑8 August to protect the presidential inauguration of Abelardo De la Espriella in Cali. Bucaramanga reported a 26 % rise in traffic fatalities in the first half of 2026, prompting calls for stricter road‑safety enforcement. Bogotá councilor Juan David Quintero urged reform of traffic law after the “Spark azul” vehicle case. The SOFA geek fair is set for 8‑12 October in Bogotá, and the pop band Morat will open the immersive Casa Morat experience from 14‑23 August.