Bullfighting in Cali, Colombia

CALI, COLOMBIA - DECEMBER 28, 2009: Plaza de Toros de Canaveralejo bullfighting ring during Cali Fair. Bullfighting also known as tauromachy is a traditional spectacle of Colombia, in which one or more bulls are ritually killed in a bullring as a public spectacle. It can be considered a blood sport. The tradition, as it is practiced today, involves professional toreros (toureiros in Portuguese; also referred to as toreadors in English), who execute various formal moves in order to subdue the bull itself. Such maneuvers are performed at close range, and have in some cases resulted in injury or death of the bullfighter. The bullfight usually concludes with the killing of the bull by a sword thrust. The Cali's Fair (Dec 25 - Jan1) is the most important cultural event in Cali, Colombia. It is a celebration of the region's cultural identity, famous for the Salsa marathon, horse riding parades and dance parties. Called "La Feria de Cali" (The Fair of Cali). "La Feria de Cali" is the main cultural event in the city, home to almost 3 million people, and the Pacific Coast of Colombia. It is a fair that has been celebrated since 1957, from December 25th to December 30th. The fair is known also as the "Feria de la Cana" (sugar cane fair) and "Feria de la salsa" (Salsa music fair). People enjoy many activities like an opening cabalgata (parade of horseback riders), tascas, salsa concerts, bullfights, parades, athletic activities/competitions and cultural exhibitions. As the city�s people�s conscious grow towards a more animal friendly environment, there has been a lot of controversy for the part of the fair that involves bullfighting. Although, a great majority of the city�s people see it as an act of cruelty and abuse towards the bulls, the few that control the event and the local government see it as a part of a tradition that should be followed and maintained . (Photo by Kaveh Kazemi/Getty Images)