That June 28, 2025, was truly memorable. The celebration of the 95th anniversary of Los Palos Grandes, with the event “Bajo el árbol” (Under the Tree), demonstrated the resilience and festive spirit of Caracas.
It was an afternoon that started off spectacularly. The Plaza Los Palos Grandes (I assume that's where it was, living up to its name!) was packed. The organizers of “Bajo el árbol” set up an excellent stage.
As you mentioned, the atmosphere was perfect:
The DJs: There was a first-rate musical selection. They started with some lounge and deep house as the afternoon wore on, but as the plaza filled up, the energy rose. I remember that the mix of electronic music with some Latin touches and Venezuelan classics got everyone dancing, from young people to families who have lived there all their lives.
The food: The gastronomic offerings were on another level. There were food trucks surrounding the square, stalls from the local restaurants themselves, which brought their specialties out onto the street. You could smell the arepas, gourmet burgers, and even more sophisticated options.
But the key moment, as you say, was the rain.
Just when the party was at its peak, around 8 p.m., the downpour began. It wasn't a drizzle, it was a strong and sudden Caracas-style “waterfall.”
Under any other circumstances, that would have been the end of the event. But exactly what you said happened: people didn't leave.
It was incredible to see the reaction. Some took out their umbrellas, others took shelter under the awnings of the food stalls or under the leafiest trees (the real stars of “Bajo el árbol”!). The DJs, far from stopping, seemed to take it as a challenge: they turned up the volume and the music became even more energetic.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)