Aibonito, Puerto Rico

Aibonito is referred to as la nevera de Puerto Rico or Puerto Rico's icebox. Nighttime temperatures have been recorded in the low 40's, a record for the island. The altitude and the cool climate provide a great natural environment for flowering plants which account for beautiful sights along its roads and streets. The patron saint for Aibonito is "Santiago Apóstol", celebrated on July 25.

Aibonito had a population of 26,500 in the 2000 census. This mountain town is about fifty minutes away from the San Juan Metropolitan Area, on the Luis A Ferre Expressway (PR 52) from San Juan to Cayey and then on to PR 14. Alternate accesses usually require a map and being ready to stop along the way for directions.

Aibonito is a favorite destination in the last weekend in June and through the fourth of July, when el Festival de las Flores is held. It is a flowering plant festival that brings plant growers from all around the island to display their merchandise. Special attractions include some of the most popular musical groups of the moment. Entrance fee is about three dollars and parking is 50 cents to one dollar in front of the park itself and about three dollars in any other parking space available throughout the area. At times the enticement of excellent musical groups, a top flower show, and the opportunity to enjoy the cool climate for a day, combine to bring numerous visitors. This is particularly true on the two weekends on which the festival is open. You can look forward to some traffic congestion and some delays, but most visitors feel it's worth it.

For native Puerto Ricans, the occassion is a yearly event, and the opportunity to meet friends and relatives from all over the island. Families and friends strewn across the island agree to meet there each year. For many, it is the only time of the year when they get to see their acquaintances. It is advisable to verify actual dates before leaving for the event, as the date may be changed occassionally as needed.

Aibonito is known for the flower-plant growers and for the chicken hatcheries which are common in the countryside.