Colombia is the land of unique celebrations, where popular culture is expressed in parties that unite tradition, gastronomy and a great sense of community. In each region, daily customs are transformed into shows full of identity that attract premises and visitors. A singular example is the gallows party, where the peasant tradition is mixed with comparsas, music and flavors, creating a creative and authentic celebration. Where is it done?
The unique festival of the peasant chicken and ornament takes place in the Oriental, municipality of Marseille in the Risaralda department. Located on the road that connects with Pereira, this town has turned this bird into one of its main cultural and gastronomic symbols, to the point of dedicating a celebration with an environment full of tradition.
This event summons the community already more and more tourists to witness an unusual reign: between eight and ten chickens, adorned and accompanied by comparsas, compete to take the maximum title.
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Marseille, Risalda
Source: Coffee Cultural Landscape Routes
The truth is that the oriental has positioned itself as a reference in rural life of the region, And the festival not only exalts the chicken as part of the peasant identity, SIno that also promotes tourism, local entrepreneurship and the enjoyment of typical cuisine.
The show includes a qualifying jury that evaluates criteria such as the presentation of the birds, the originality of the comparsas and the creativity of its companions, which makes the contest a sample of community talent and its ability to transform the everyday into something extraordinary.
In addition to the parade, attendees can enjoy typical dishes prepared with peasant chicken and a varied sample of local ventures, which makes this party an engine for the economy of the area.
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How to get to the municipality of Marseille?
The most common way to arrive is by bus from the Pereira transport terminal. Several cooperatives and transport companies, such as CoTransmar and Pereiranas lines, They offer frequent outings throughout the day. The trip lasts approximately one hour and the cost is usually between 5,500 and 7,000 Colombian pesos.
Another option is to move in private transport, such as taxi or private vehicle. By car, the distance from Pereira is about 28 kilometers, and can be traveled in about 38 minutes. This alternative allows greater comfort and flexibility of schedules, although the cost is higher compared to public transport. In addition, it is possible to calculate fuel spending if you choose to drive your own vehicle.
For those who seek an experience closer to nature, you can also reach a motorcycle touring panoramic routes such as “Mulatica”, which crosses coffee plantations and mountain landscapes typical of the region.
Regardless of the chosen transport mediaMarseille is an accessible destination from Pereira and other nearby municipalities, ideal for a weekend getaway or for those who want to enjoy their local culture and gastronomy.
What are the 5 best activities in Pereira?
1. Tour the Historic Center: Walk through its cobbled streets and admire colonial architecture, ancient churches and picturesque squares full of history and tradition.
2. Visit coffee farms: Know the coffee process from planting to the cup, participate in tastings and enjoy the green landscapes of coffee plantations.
3. Explore the Aldea Natural Park: An ideal space for ecological walks, bird observation and contact with the typical flora and fauna of the region.
4. Taste the local cuisine: Try typical dishes such as sancocho, homemade empanadas and desserts in family restaurants and fondas of the municipality.
5. Participate in local festivities: If the visit with any celebration coincides, such as cultural fairs or festivals, you can enjoy dances, music and activities that reflect the identity of Marseille.
