If you are looking for a traditional Latin American festival, then this is the one for you. Come and witness the most beautiful sheep and experience Latin friendliness at its finest.
The Ovecha Ragué Festival is one of the most important festivals in Paraguay, with people travelling from all over the country to witness the spectacle. Even though it only came into existence in 1989 in the city of San Miguel (178 kilometers south of Asuncion), it has made quite a name for itself. It takes place between the dates of the 9th to the 12th of June annually.
Paraguay, or the Corazón de Sudamerica (the heart of South America) has an extremely unique history, making it one of the only countries in South America to have two official languages, Guarani and Spanish. Still speaking Guarani, an indigenous Native American language, goes to show that the fight has transcended its history; the country has staunchly held on to its identity, despite so much foreign interference and historical dictators trying to destroy it. This identity has heavily influenced the country’s dress, and the City of Wool (San Miguel), which is the centerpiece to one of country’s most important festivals.
The main attractions at the Ovecha Ragué festival are the music and cheap woolen artisans.
We wouldn’t have any wool without sheep, and these animals take center stage during the festival as the proud sheep owners parade their livestock in front of the judges. The judges make their decisions based on the condition of their wool and how gracefully they move.
The contestants nervously wait
Music
The very best of Paraguayan bands attend the Ovecha Ragué. The festival is kicked off by a big concert, which typically has upbeat rock music with a lot of alcohol and drunk people dancing around with full gusto. The family atmosphere makes the whole experience very inviting. Typical Paraguayan dancers then come on the stage and strut their stuff to the sound of a ukulele.
Starting the festival off with a bang
Looking for a bargain?
Ovecha Ragué Festival is the centerpiece for lana (wool) producers for the year. It really is everywhere you look, and if you haggle, you can pick up some great bargains. Also, this is cowboy country, so a nice pair of cowboy boots is never too far away.
A Senora patiently waiting for her next customer.
Other things to see
Making your way to the town center, the art exhibition illuminates the streets as onlookers admire traditional Paraguayan art. The amount of horses that line the streets being ridden by skilled horsemen in amazing costumes is incredible. As the horses parade down the colonial streets, stepping to the rhythm of every beat. To round off the festival, Miss Ovecha Ragué is voted for, based on her beauty and perhaps even of her knowledge of sheep!
Forget Miss Universe, vote for Miss Ovecha Ragué!
