Summer agenda in Uruguay: plans to enjoy cultural events and experiences

Throughout the summer season, Uruguay offers a wide range of artistic and recreational activities, combining internationally renowned music festivals, film series, art fairs, and traditional celebrations. The program focuses on established destinations like Punta del Este, Colonia del Sacramento, and Montevideo, while also offering alternatives in cities such as Fray Bentos and Nuevo Berlín, reinforcing the country's cultural profile as a complement to its beach and relaxation offerings.

In Punta del Este and Manantiales, contemporary art, music, and film take center stage. The Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art (MACA) offers a special program that includes temporary exhibitions, cultural activities, and guided tours, integrating art, architecture, and nature. Within this space, the ARCA International Festival of Films on Arts is held, featuring screenings dedicated to art house and documentary films, programs for children, and international screenings. All activities are free of charge at the Pablo Atchugarry Foundation in Manantiales.

The city will also host a new edition of Maggs Gallery Expo, taking place from January 6 to 9 at the Enjoy Hotel. With free admission, the fair will bring together a carefully curated selection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and design pieces in the Salones Río, solidifying its position as a key meeting point for artists, collectors, and critics in a sophisticated setting.

Another highlight is the 30th anniversary of the Medio y Medio club in Punta Ballena. This long-established venue will celebrate three decades with a program running through January and February 2026, featuring over 40 nights of concerts and more than 60 national and international artists. The lineup includes rock, pop, popular music, theater, and special performances, reaffirming its status as one of the country's most iconic music venues.

In Colonia del Sacramento, the offerings expand to include guided tours of the Plaza de Toros del Real de San Carlos. The completely renovated complex invites visitors to explore an icon from the early 20th century and has established itself as a cultural and tourist center that blends historical heritage with contemporary uses.

Fray Bentos is positioning itself as a nearby cultural alternative for the Argentine public, with a program that combines live music, fairs, and activities in heritage sites. During January, the city will host events such as Jazz en Casa Grande, the 3aKaT fair with musical performances in San Javier, the 22nd edition of the Desde la Costa Festival in Nuevo Berlín, and the Valbará – Músicas Migrantes concert in Las Cañas, among other offerings.

Montevideo adds to its vibrant scene with the opening of Parque Mauá, a new public space located on the historic site of the Mauá Dock, along the Rambla Sur. The project revitalizes an iconic location facing the Río de la Plata and transforms it into a green promenade with recreational areas and spaces dedicated to outdoor cultural activities. On the music front, the capital will welcome Martinho Da Vila on February 26th at the SODRE National Auditorium, where the renowned Brazilian artist will present his show “Voz do Coracão,” accompanied by a band of outstanding musicians and guest vocalists.

With this program, the country consolidates a diverse and sustained offering for the 2026 season, combining music, art, heritage, and renovated public spaces. The variety of initiatives reaffirms Uruguay as an accessible and attractive destination, with a strong cultural identity and options designed for diverse audiences throughout the summer.