Colombian FolkloreColombian folklore consists of all popular beliefs, proverbs, music customs and traditions of Colombian Culture. Folklore also consists of the practices through which the above genres are expressed like music, legends and fables. It can be used to relieve pressure through humor and local carnivals but also teaches new generations what their local culture is all about. Carnivals and FestivalsCarnivals that take place all over Colombia materialize different folk tales and characters while featuring local music genres like Cumbia and folk dances. Such dances vary across all regions as well as the costumes used but, they’re all light colored clothes made with soft fabrics that used to represent regions cultures.Some of the most popular events in Colombian Folklore are the Barranquilla Carnival, Cali’s Fair and the Festival of Flowers in Medellin. Folk LegendsLegends in Colombia tell the story of odd creatures whose existence has not been proven but, there are those who claim to have heard about them and those who have actually seen them and help keep these stores alive. Such legendary creatures have become very important in local culture thanks to their stories being passed on to new generations by those who grew up listening to them.El Hombre Caiman (Alligatorman) is one of these creatures and is said to show both human and Alligator features. Folk tale says that he was a fisherman transformed by a spirit of the Magdalena River and ever since it hunts human victims on San Sebastian’s day. Another interesting legend talks about the Madre Monte, or Mother of the Forest. Usually it is said that this creature in the shape of a woman protects the forest and its animals from humans that enter their domain to do more harm than good. This tale originated in indigenous times and its main character can be compared to that of Mother Nature in modern times. ProverbsAs part of Colombian Folklore, proverbs are a simple way to express truth based on common sense and previous experiences metaphorically. Colombian proverbs may be humorous but make people understand and is why they are popularly used across the country and. Here are some of them:“No me meta los dedos en la boca, que ya tengo dientes” – “Don’t put your fingers in my mouth, I’ve already got teeth”- This proverb is often told to someone who’s trying to trick someone else. “Entre mas vacas, menos leche” – “The more cows you have, the less milk you’ll get” – If there’s too many people working on a single task, you may not get the results you expect. “Perro Viejo, ladra hechado” – “An old dog even barks while lying down” – If you’re experienced in something, you don’t need to brag about it. “Acabo de matar a la gallina de los huevos de oro” - “I just killed the Hen that lays golden eggs” – This one’s said when doing something that may have ruined something good.
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