This long weekend, Campeche, a district of Baranoa in Atlántico, is set to host its 37th Plum Festival, a beloved gastronomic event that has become a hallmark of the region. Drawing nearly 30,000 visitors each year, according to official estimates, the festival is a major cultural and economic event.
Culinary Delights and Unique Competitions
This year, the festival will reward creativity with prizes for the largest plum cake and the most innovative plum-based product. These initiatives, led by municipal social worker Julia Durán, are designed to showcase the culinary versatility of this cherished fruit. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample an array of plum-inspired delicacies, including sweets, sauces, wines, cakes, and juices, each offering a unique and authentic taste.
Efraín Brochero, director of the Plum Festival Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Every year we exceed expectations, and this festival will be no exception.”
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, the Baranoa Mayor’s Office has coordinated security measures in partnership with the National Police and the Atlantic Transit Institute.
Community and Economic Impact
Mayor Edison Palma emphasized the festival’s significance for the community’s economic growth and extended an invitation to all to partake in the celebration. The Plum Products Association has planned the production of approximately 20,000 items, including 1,000 bottles of plum wine crafted by four skilled winemakers. Additionally, a group of 24 individuals, victims of the armed conflict and led by Saturnino Vásquez, will participate in the festival with an exhibition of handmade crafts.
The Festival’s Origins and Legacy
Founded in 1988, the Plum Festival began as a local initiative to promote the region’s plum harvest. Over the years, it has expanded to include plum-based products like jams, juices, and desserts, while integrating cultural and recreational elements such as contests, art exhibitions, and the selection of a festival queen. The festival now attracts visitors from across the region and highlights March and April’s peak plum production season, a vital period for the local economy.
The Intermunicipal Plum Pageant
As part of the festivities, the 27th Intermunicipal Plum Pageant will showcase the talent and beauty of young women from the region, fostering local culture and identity. This year, the reigning queen is Karla Herrera, a 24-year-old early childhood education graduate. Twelve candidates from various municipalities will compete for the crown, with the election and coronation scheduled for Sunday, March 23, at 4:00 p.m. at the Plazoleta de la Ciruela. The ceremony will feature performances by artists and cultural groups.
Mayor Edison Palma warmly invited the public to join in: “Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the cultural and culinary richness that the Plum Festival has to offer! Celebrate this cherished tradition, passed down through generations, and strengthen the identity of our region.”
Source: El Tiempo
