Since 1968, the Vallenato Legend Festival (Festival de La Leyenda Vallenata), also known as "Festival Vallenato", has been held in Valledupar at the end of April or beginning of May, the most important festival of this genre in the entire country and one of the main musical festivals in Colombia. 

The festival was founded on the initiative of the legendary Rafael Escalona, ​​Consuelo Araújo Noguera and the then governor of Cesar Alfonso López Michelsen.
 
During the festival, musicians from all over the country compete in various categories such as professional, amateur, youth and children's accordion players, as well as in the composition of unpublished songs and the "piqueria", a "repentismo "competition where verses are improvised. 

The participants perform the four traditional airs of vallenato: "Paseo", "Merengue", "Son" and "Puya", demonstrating their talent and skill in this musical genre. 

One of the most anticipated events is the coronation of King Vallenato (Rey Vallenato), a title awarded to the best accordion player at the festival. This recognition is one of the most prestigious in the world of vallenato and has launched numerous musicians to fame.
 
In addition to the musical competitions, the festival includes parades, such as the “Willys Parranderos” and the piloneras parades, folk dance displays, and cultural events that celebrate the Vallenato identity. 

This Festival is a symbol of Colombia's cultural wealth and a tribute to the region's musical legacy.

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