Feria de Cali at the USC Arena
The USC Carlos Andrés Pérez Galindo Arena in Cali, Colombia, inaugurated just last year, is quickly establishing itself as one of the most important venues on the continent.
I Color Radio recently included the USC Arena in its ranking of the best theaters in Latin America in 2025, placing it third, alongside cultural gems such as the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, the Sala Nezahualcóyotl in Mexico City, and the Teatro Solís in Montevideo.
This international recognition marks a milestone for the Universidad Santiago de Cali and for Rector Carlos Andrés Pérez Galindo, the project’s architect.
The distinction validates not only the Arena’s technical and architectural excellence, but also its social and cultural impact as a driving force for creative development in the region. “This achievement is a source of pride for Cali and for Colombia. Arena USC was born with the dream of opening doors to the world from our city, and seeing ourselves on this exclusive list confirms that we are on the right track,” said Carlos Fernández, CEO of Arecol, the company that operates the venue.
The recognition comes just as the city prepares to experience its second Cali Fair as a leading entertainment venue. Its seasonal slogan, “Arena USC, the exclusive stage of the Fair,” anticipates a program that promises unforgettable nights and live excitement.
Official Program:
December 26 – Vallenato with feeling: Daniel Calderón y Los Gigantes, Jean Carlos Centeno, and Hebert Vargas.
December 27 – Retro Party: Charlie Aponte, Eddy Herrera, Magic Juan, and DJ Gaga.
December 28 – Popular Music at full volume: Yeison Jiménez, El Agropecuario, Marlon Arenas, and Dueto Buriticá.
December 29 – Feeling and passion on one stage: Luis Alfonso, Alzate, Willie García, and Dubán Bayona.
December 30 – Non-stop salsa: Grupo Niche, La Misma Gente, Dyson Lyon, and Orquesta La 16.
A new landmark for the country. Since its opening, Arena USC has hosted iconic artists such as Grupo Niche, Toreros Muertos, Grupo Bahía, Rata Blanca, Alberto Plaza, Juan Fernando Velasco, Andrés Cepeda, Santiago Cruz, Rey Ruiz, Andy Montañez, Roberto Blades, and Sergio Vargas, as well as innovative shows like V de Vinilo and Hombres a la Plancha.
Throughout 2025, it will close with nearly 50 concerts, solidifying its position as a cultural epicenter where music, theater, and comedy converge in a modern, safe, and inclusive environment.
This international recognition not only highlights the venue’s infrastructure but also its contribution to the urban and economic transformation of Cali. The Arena has become a symbol of confidence in culture as an engine of development, providing employment, attracting tourism, and boosting the local creative economy.
“This venue belongs to the city. Every award is a tribute to the people of Cali who believe in the transformative power of culture and who join us at every concert and every show. That’s why we celebrate together,” added Fernández.
This December, its stage will be the heart of the Feria de Cali. And when the lights come up and the music starts, it will be clear that the USC Arena has not only raised the bar for entertainment in Colombia: it has put it on the world map.
