Feast of Flowers and Fruits in Ambato

The city of Ambato, in central Ecuador, is the capital of the province of Tungurahua, also known as the "The City of Flowers and Fruits".  It has a dry temperate weather, ideal for flowers and fruits, and a population of about 250,000 inhabitants in the urban area.

The Feast of Fruit and Flower is known as one of the most beautiful celebrations in Ecuador, and was created in response to a great tragedy - a powerful earthquake that almost completely destroyed the city on August 5, 1949.   The people of Ambato and surroundings rose with fervor and enthusiasm to rebuild their city, and members of the Cantonal Agricultural Center were the organizers of the first party which was held on February 17, 1951.

The fiesta is a manifestation of the courage of the people of Ambato to overcome the tragedy and an offer to the beauty and fertility of their land.   The Feast of Fruits and Flowers is held during Carnival (40 days before Easter) and among the main events is the election of the Queen of Ambato, who presides a parade of  floats beautifully decorated with flowers and fruits.

The blessing of the Bread and Fruit takes place at the Cathedral, with a special mass, and the atrium of the church is also filled with arrangements of flowers, fruit and bread.  Other events that take place are food festivals, music festivals, concerts and partying and dances on the streets.

Att: Mauricio