Machala is rightly considered not only the banana capital of Ecuador but of the whole world. There are vast banana plantations where locals grow the fruit and export it to countless countries. And it would be strange if the city that loves joy and festivity wouldn’t have a holiday devoted to the main plant of Machala – banana.

For a few days, each September, the city becomes a point of attraction for those in the agricultural business and those who simply like flamboyant carnivals. Because during this time, Machala hosts the World Banana Fair.

Indeed, a serious economic part of this event is the fair itself that presents the achievements of the local agricultural establishments. But guests come to Machala not because of it but for free tours over the city, charity dinners, a carnival costume contest, dances, concerts, and light shows.

The main event of the fair is the election of the World Banana Queen and King. Any girl from any city of Ecuador can become the Queen. The jury will evaluate the beauty of the costume, her theatrical performance, and how actively she participates in the events of the fair. However, the Banana King is chosen among the farmers that compete with their products. And if the girl receives a fine diadem as the prize, the Banana King is honored and awarded with the biggest and most beautiful banana branch put on his head like a crown.

Besides, each year, as part of the World Banana Fair, a beautiful carnival is held. Usually, it takes place on the last celebration day, when the King and the Queen have already been chosen. That’s they who launch the movement of the platforms and, this way, the mass national parade, that continues up to the late evening and finishes with a cool concert in the central city square.