Feria del Sol

The Feria del Sol, also known as the Carnaval Taurino de América, is a vibrant international cultural festival held every February in Mérida, Venezuela. This festive event coincides with the carnival season and boasts a plethora of activities, including bullfighting competitions, cultural and commercial exhibitions, concerts, parades, sports events, and even a beauty pageant to crown La Reina del Sol (The Queen of the Sun).

The festival's origins can be traced back to Mérida, often referred to as the City of the Knights. Unlike other Venezuelan cities, Mérida lacked a comparable grand fair. A dedicated group sought to change this by constructing a Plaza de Toros (Bullring) and creating a taurine calendar to establish Mérida's fair as one of the most prominent in the country. Initially, the fair was scheduled for December 9 and 10 to coincide with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Legendary bullfighters like César Faraco and Manuel Benítez "El Cordobés" were among the first to participate in the early festivals.

In 1969, the first bullfighting carnival was introduced as part of the Feria del Sol, featuring three bull runs. Over the years, the fair has evolved into a major event, not just in Venezuela but also in the global taurine community. However, it faced some challenges and limited acceptance during the years 1990, 1991, and 1997.

Despite these setbacks, the Feria del Sol has become a cornerstone of Mérida's cultural scene. It beautifully blends traditional bullfighting with a wide range of entertainment and cultural activities, drawing visitors from all corners of the world to experience its unique charm and festive spirit.