Reflecting back to 1964, the seed of an idea sprouted within the Rotary Club de Escobar. It blossomed into what we now know as the Predio Fiesta Nacional de la Flor. The flower show was the brainchild of Arturo Brossio. He was a local floriculturist with a vision to celebrate the region’s floral wealth.
Initially, the Fiesta Nacional de la Flor took place at the Club Sportivo Escobar. The grand inauguration occurred on October 8. This date coincided with the anniversary of the founding of the Escobar district. The event concluded on October 12, a national holiday. Floriculturists showcased meticulously arranged plants and cut flowers. They transformed the hall into a spectacle of beauty.
The inaugural event faced challenges. Torrential rain caused a power outage. Despite this, the event was a success. The first Fiesta Nacional de la Flor raised over a million pesos. The organizers donated the funds to the Hospital Erill. Ester Yoshimiya was crowned the first Reina Nacional de la Flor.
In 1965, the fiesta adopted its anthem. It was a zamba titled “Capital de la Flor.” Nicolás Carusso wrote the lyrics and Rvd Maccina composed the music. The song quickly gained popularity. It echoed throughout the district. Choirs and folk groups performed it.
The event expanded beyond the Club Sportivo Escobar. In 1966, the exhibition moved to the warehouses of Domingo Completa e Hijos. Don Luís Juan Brusi assumed the presidency in 1967. He led the Fiesta Nacional de la Flor for thirty years.
A pivotal moment arrived on June 6, 1968. President Arturo Illia signed Decree N° 7424/64. It officially recognized the event as the Fiesta Nacional de la Flor. Construction began in 1970. The “Ciudad Floral” would have parks and gardens. There would also be pavilions, and a lake.
The Ciudad Floral expanded over the years. It now boasts 170000 square meters of parks and gardens. There are four pavilions spanning 7200 square meters. In 1978, the Instituto de Florihorticultura y Jardinería was inaugurated. The institute offers training in horticulture, floriculture, and ornamental plants.
The Predio Fiesta Nacional de la Flor hosts many activities. These include flower and plant exhibitions, floral art displays, and landscaping showcases. A highlight is the float parade. The floats are adorned with a variety of flowers. The Reina Nacional de la Flor and Reina Nacional Infantil del Capullo are crowned. The pavilions showcase floral species from different regions.
Today, the Fiesta Nacional de la Flor is a major attraction. It draws visitors from across Argentina and beyond. It celebrates the beauty of flowers. It also showcases the region’s horticultural expertise. As you wander through the grounds, appreciate the vision. Consider the dedication of those who transformed a simple idea into a national celebration at the Predio Fiesta Nacional de la Flor.