the striking festival internacional de la qrquídea celebrates the regions wealth of orchid species. the patron saint's day celebrations, for the fiesta de la inmaculada concepción de la santisima virgen maría, involve artisan stores, a craft fair and cattle fair, and are well worth a look. it’s held on the weekend closest to the 8th december. there are many festivities for easter and the día de la tradición, on the 23 october, is another good time to visit. concepción is a great place to celebrate the international american renaissance and baroque music festival and has concerts throughout the 10 days of festivities.