Each year, the small mountain town of Adjuntas in Puerto Rico switches gears from its quiet, rural pace to full festival mode with the Festival del Apio—The Celery Festival. Celebrated in late February or early March, this lively event honors the town’s agricultural heart, particularly its celery crops, grown in cooler mountain soils that challenge but reward hardworking farmers.

The festival is a practical invitation to experience Puerto Rico's coffee country culture beyond beaches and resorts. Streets fill with locals and visitors sampling celery-based dishes, fresh produce, and artisanal foods while live music sets a rhythmic beat that carries the day forward.

Beyond the festive atmosphere, Adjuntas offers outdoor enthusiasts access to rugged trails and green escapes. The nearby trails around Bosque de Susúa present a moderate hiking challenge: expect uneven terrain, some steep sections, and an elevation gain of approximately 1,000 feet over 3.5 miles round trip. The paths are shaded by dense forests, where sunlight flickers through the leaves and a steady breeze hums through the branches. Streams nearby seem to test your resolve, nudging adventurers closer with their cool gurgles.

Hiking here isn’t about conquering nature but moving alongside it—learning when to pause to breathe and when to press forward. Bring sturdy footwear suitable for rocky and sometimes muddy trails, plenty of water to stay fueled, and a daypack ready for quick stops. The region’s weather can shift abruptly; a morning chill can turn into warm midday sun, so layering is smart.

Timing your visit to coincide with the Festival del Apio adds a rich layer to the experience. After your hike, return to town to enjoy fresh celery salads, hearty stews, and traditional Puerto Rican street eats infused with the vegetable’s crisp bite. The festival also hosts cooking demonstrations and cultural performances, drawing you into the rhythms and flavors that define Adjuntas.

Whether you come for the celery bounty, the trails, or both, this event highlights the practical joys of mountain life—the tough work, the vibrant community, and the rewards of effort seen and tasted. Festival del Apio offers an authentic slice of Puerto Rico that blends adventure with local culture, inviting you to walk its paths and savor its harvest.