Many of the popular festivals in Puerto Rico take place in the capital city of San Juan, but this does not make them any less exciting or diverse. Visitors to the region are in for a treat any time of the year with Puerto Rico holidays like Carnival in February taking over the streets or the Heineken JazzFest in March which brings together the biggest names in the jazz world.
Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastian
Starting off the year in January is Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastian. Held annually in San Juan, this festival offers residents one last holiday party. Lasting three nights, the event is a celebration of the saint Sebastian with a huge street party. Visitors will be treated to vibrant music, colorful dancing and, invariably, a great deal of drinking.
Carnival
One of the most anticipated festivals in Puerto Rico, Carniva, is a hallmark of February each year. Taking over the central plaza of all major cities, Carnival is a brilliant display of Puerto Rican culture at its finest. Visitors will see everything from street parades to masked dances. Although not as flamboyant as some other countries, this event is still highly enjoyable and worth engaging in.
Festival Casals
Also in February is Festival Casals which has been taking place in San Juan for over 50 years. This event is entirely dedicated to the life and work of Pablo Casals, the world-famous cellist and honorary Puerto Rican. Music spans almost an entire month and showcases some of the best classical and jazz performers from around the globe.
Puerto Rico Open
Golf lovers will be happy to know that March marks the start of the Puerto Rico Open in Rio Grande. Attracting top players from around the world, this annual event is no joke. With a prize purse of US $3.5 million, all golfers pull out their A-game to provide visitors an experience they won't forget.
Heineken JazzFest
Another beloved music festival, the Heineken JazzFest takes place in March every year in the trendy San Juan metropolitan area. JazzFest showcases both local and international talents and is an institution that has been happening for over 20 years. The main focus, unsurprisingly, is Latin Jazz, which provides a great deal of entertainment for everyone who chooses to go.
Saborea Culinary Festival
There are many food festivals in Puerto Rico throughout the year, but by far the most popular is the Saborea Culinary Festival in San Juan. Held annually in April the weekend is a feast of flavors, influences and styles. Top local and international chefs make appearances and there are a plethora of workshops to keep visitors entertained. Anyone planning on attending will definitely not leave hungry.
International Salsa Congress
An amazing display of one of the finest cultural activities in Puerto Rico, the International Salsa Congress takes place in July. Held annually in San Juan, the congress brings together dancers and salsa lovers from around the world to celebrate this vibrant and exciting form of dance. Lasting for two weeks, there are several live music shows and the main event – a piping hot dance competition.
*culled from www.iexplore.com
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