What’s On In Bogotá: Rock Al Parque

Well time sure does fly. Not so long ago I remember reading in a local paper about upcoming Colombia events. I saw Rock Al Parque and thought it looked pretty good. Of course, it was all the way away in July so there was no need to worry about it then. Now, however, time has crept up on me and I’ve noticed that I only have a couple of weeks until the arrival of South America’s largest free rock festival. This means buying ponchos, wellington boots and a whole host of other necessities in preparation for a festival under Bogotá’s unpredictable skies.

Chocquibtown

Rock Al Parque 2011 takes place from the 1st of July until the 4th of July in Parque Simon Bolivar, Bogotá. It may be called ‘Rock’ Al Parque, but in actual fact the line-up is pretty eclectic. Colombian favourites Chocquibtown will be playing and that promises to be awesome. I’m a big fan of ‘De Donde Vengo Yo’ and especially ‘Somos Pacificos’. I’m also looking forward to Bomba Estereo, who I first discovered when I was still in Buenos Aires.

Also at the festival is – rather bizarrely – Dead Kennedys. It’ll be a massive dose of nostalgia for me since I was quite fond of some punk when I was young, despite my pretty clean-cut appearances.

Last year's Rock Al Parque

There’s a load more bands to check out (you can see the line-up here) and I look forward to uncovering some relatively unknown local talent. Few people outside Colombia know how strong the music scene is here, so hopefully a festival like this will give some bands some much deserved exposure.

Once again, the festival takes place on July 1st to July 4th at Parque Simon Bolivar, Bogotá. Look out for the Englishman at the front wearing some stylish wellington boots and a sweet yellow poncho.

The official program has been released here.

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