Medellín Dances to Diverse Rhythms Beyond Reggaeton, Hosting Beauty and Tango Events

While reggaeton has cemented Medellín's status as a global hub for urban music, the Colombian city cultivates a rich cultural landscape far beyond its most famous genre. Its event calendar boasts a wide array of offerings, from aesthetic and beauty expos to the International Tango Festival, one of Latin America's most significant celebrations of the dance.

Long before artists like Karol G and Maluma achieved international fame, tango was deeply woven into Medellín's cultural fabric. Nearly a century after the legendary tango singer Carlos Gardel died in a plane crash in the city, Medellín remains a vital center for the genre. The annual International Tango Festival draws over 30,000 attendees, underscoring the enduring passion for this music and dance.

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The people began to identify with the lyrics of tango. Many businesses dedicated to this genre were created around the train station, and thus a passion began to grow that is still alive in Medellín.

Gustavo Arteaga, a tango collector and researcher, explains that the genre's appeal in Medellín grew organically around the railway station, fostering businesses and a dedicated fanbase that persists today. He notes that festivals, dance academies, and preservation spaces keep the tradition alive, coexisting harmoniously with the city's vibrant urban music scene.

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There is room for everything here.

Medellín's cultural diversity extends to other major events, such as Expobelleza, a prominent beauty industry fair that attracts exhibitors and visitors from across the globe, including Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, and the United Arab Emirates. This event highlights the international reach of Medellín's gatherings.

Emily Rojas, representing a Colombian hair care brand, emphasizes that such fairs are crucial for forging international business connections and expanding market reach. Tata Marín, a presenter at Expobelleza, echoes this sentiment, noting the increasing participation from international players, reinforcing Medellín's position as an attractive venue for diverse industries.

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People from other countries come to do business, interested in the brand and in distributing it in other markets.