The Luis A. Calvo Auditorium at the Industrial University of Santander (UIS) was once again filled with harmony and Christmas spirit with “Navidad de dos pueblos” (Christmas of Two Peoples), a magical performance presented by the UIS Folk Music and Dance Group and the Macondo Afro-Colombian Music and Dance Group on the second day of the 2025 Festival of Lights.
“I am very happy to participate in this family event, where we can show the public the fruit of the work we have been preparing for so long. For us, it is a very important performance because we seek to rescue the culture of our country,” said Laura Flórez, a member of the Macondo Afro-Colombian Music and Dance group.
The audience applauded the quality of the show offered by these groups, which presented an artistic proposal that integrates Andean music and dance with traditional rhythms from the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. An event that brings together the cultural and festive richness of the end-of-year celebrations.
“This event was perfect: dancing, music, and free admission for the entire internal and external community. I congratulate you for keeping this tradition alive and for the high performance of the UIS cultural groups,” said Luz Sarmiento, a chemical engineering student.
The audience also praised and thanked the university administration for organizing a new edition of the Festival of Lights, a celebration that for many citizens marks the beginning of a season full of peace and joy. The cultural program, along with the impressive illuminated tree that adorns the Central Campus, continues to captivate visitors and the university community.
“I think it’s a very valuable event, and we come to support our colleagues in the cultural groups who have been preparing these presentations for months, even years. As members of the University, we must take advantage of these spaces and accompany our groups,” said Anderson Moreno, a social work student.
“It’s something that definitely sets UIS apart, because it offers these opportunities to students, their families, and even people outside the university, who can enjoy cultural events and share in the community,” said Sara Castillo, a chemical engineering student.
