Paraguay’s city of Caaguazú welcomes Suena Caaguazú (Caaguazú Sounds) on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 August, 2026. The festival brings together more than 70 delegations from across Paraguay. Organised by Sonidos de la Tierra, the event unites music, culture, education, tourism and environmental action. The programme also celebrates two major figures who shape Paraguay’s musical culture, Luis Alberto del Paraná and Quemil Yambay.
A festival built around music
The celebration brings together children, young musicians, coordinators and communities from different parts of Paraguay. Throughout two days, participants take part in concerts, workshops, cultural activities and community initiatives. In addition, the festival creates spaces where local communities can share their traditions, talents and products. More than 1,200 young musicians come together for the festival’s largest musical performance.
The Mega Orchestra forms the centrepiece of the weekend, bringing hundreds of musicians together onstage. American conductor Leon Burke III leads the performance as international guest director. Meanwhile, Caaguazú artist Roscer Díaz joins the orchestra as a special guest.
This year’s concert honours Luis Alberto del Paraná and Quemil Yambay for their cultural contributions. Del Paraná gained international recognition by taking Paraguayan music to audiences around the world. Meanwhile, Yambay built a lasting connection with Paraguayan audiences through his songs and performances. Their different careers therefore offer two perspectives on the country’s musical tradition.
From communities to Caaguazú
The programme begins on Friday with a tourist circuit for coordinators and accompanying guests. Participants then can attend a master class focused on Paraguayan harp traditions. Later, more than 70 delegations take part in the Desfile de los Pueblos. The parade fills Caaguazú with representatives showcasing elements about their communities and local identities.
The day continues with the Festival de los Pueblos, featuring regional orchestras. These performances give participating musicians another opportunity to present their work before the community. At the same time, the festival encourages connections between schools and communities from different parts of Paraguay.
Saturday brings further activities that connect music with local entrepreneurship and environmental responsibility. The Mercadito Sonidos opens to the public, allowing local entrepreneurs to display and sell their products. Volunteers also participate in tree planting at Plaza Inmaculada Concepción. Additionally, local coordinators can attend training focused on emotional wellbeing before the main concert.
Suenna Caaguazú: A free concert for the community
The weekend concludes with the Mega Orchestra Suena Caaguazú at Estadio Tajy Poty. Doors open to the public from 17:30, while admission remains free for everyone. However, organisers limit capacity and welcome visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. The concert brings together the festival’s musical and community activities in one final celebration.
For Sonidos de la Tierra, the goal of the Suena Caaguazú is wider than simply offering a large musical performance. The Paraguayan non-profit organisation uses music to support education, community development and environmental awareness. Founded in 2002 by maestro Luis Szarán, Sonidos de la Tierra now supports community music schools across Paraguay. Suena Caaguazú continues that mission through music and cultural experiences.
For more information, follow Sonidos de la Tierra on Instagram.
