Every year at the end of December, the municipality of Sampués, known as one of the main centers for crafting the iconic "sombrero vueltiao", celebrates its Festival and National "Sombrero Vueltiao" Beauty Pageant. This event, founded in 1984, highlights the region's artisanal tradition.
During the fair, exhibitions and competitions are held where local artisans demonstrate the process of making the hat, from harvesting the "caña flecha" plant to weaving and the final design.
The event also includes the National "Sombrero (hat) Vueltiao" Beauty Pageant, in which women from different regions of the country compete for the title, showcasing not only their beauty but also their knowledge of the history and cultural significance of this iconic garment, a cultural symbol of Colombia.
Additionally, the fair is complemented by cultural activities such as float and dance troupe parades, storytelling and troubadour gatherings, and musical performances featuring "porro", "fandango", and "cumbia", traditional dances of the region, as well as food fairs showcasing the flavors of the Caribbean coast.
The Festival and National "Sombrero Vueltiao" Beauty Pageant promotes the cultural heritage of Sampués and honors its valuable artisanal tradition in an atmosphere of tradition and celebration.