• Español
  • English
  • Português (Brasil)
  • French (Fr)

Bugaba celebrates Candelaria Fair

Bugaba produces 80 percent of the country's milk and is one of the most vibrant ranching districts, located just minutes from the city of David, Chiriquí. The district of Bugaba will host the 54th Candelaria Fair, named after their patron Catholic saint of the Virgen de la Candelaria.

The locals of Bugaba feel especially proud of having the second largest horseback parade in the country, which brings together thousands of riders from every district, and even foreigners from Cost Rica, Spain, Peru and the U.S., who also come to show off their equestrian skills on this date.

New innovations at the fair are expected to inject extra revenue into the economy of Bugaba. With agricultural, livestock, craft, commercial and institutional exhibitions and shows for all ages, the fair is expected to be inaugurated on Friday, January 25 by Oscar Osorio, the Minister of Agricultural Development (MIDA).

José Domínguez, vice president of the Candelaria Fair Board, expressed his optimism about the possibility of a major economic boost to the area that would principally benefit the commercial sector of Bugaba, especially that of design. The highland farmers are also very hopeful that the fair will be economically productive, but they wish for the benefits to be shared with everyone alike. Farmers have faced much economic hardship lately from low production due to climate change, resulting in poor pay and expenses that must somehow be covered.  

What you will find at the fair

Among the many exhibits, visitors will be able to view more than 100 prize dairy cattle and farm animals, followed by the judging, exhibition and awarding of the best European dairy cattle, like Charolais, Angus, Brangus, Simmental, Simbra and Blonde D Aquitaine.

In addition, artisans from different areas of national and international geography will gather in this exhibition event with samples of their talented craftwork to sell during the ten-day fair.

An amusement park with rides and a swimming pool will delight children and youth. On stage, there will be artistic performances, singing and folk dances.

Visitors will be able to sample different local and international dishes, such as the beloved pot-cooked tamales, pork legs and the best cheese in the entire country. From 60 to 62 thousand visitors are expected to attend the ten days of the fair.

Admission

The price of admission to the fair is B/. 1.50 for adults and 75 cents for children.