Colombia and Valle del Cauca celebrated this important milestone in a big way, starting the countdown to the most important multi-sport event for young people in the Americas, with an impressive and emotional ceremony at Lake Calima, the location that will be the sporting venue for this long-awaited event.

Following the tradition of sporting events, the Organizing Committee carried out the organization of "30 days before the I Pan American Junior Games Cali- Valle 2021" the activity began with a dazzling light show on Friday and Saturday night. The final ceremony was held on Sunday with different authorities of the country. It was led by the Governor of Valle del Cauca, Clara Luz Roldan and was attended by authorities, athletes, press and members of the community.
 
Lake Calima, iconic site of the region, for the first time in history, was illuminated with the colors of the flags of Colombia and the Department, and then with a fireworks show that marked the beginning of the countdown of 1 month for the start of the continental event.
 
"More than 3500 athletes from 41 countries will arrive in Valle del Cauca, and about 10,000 people in general, including family members of the athletes, journalists, international volunteers, leaders and coaches of the multiple delegations. We want to welcome all of them with the warmth and friendship with which we Colombians are always accustomed to".
Director of the Games, José Luis Echeverry Azcárate

"We are now entering the final stretch of these Games that will undoubtedly make history in Pan American and world sport. With this beautiful ceremony at Lake Calima we are telling the entire continent and our athletes that Cali, Valle del Cauca and all of Colombia are waiting for them with open arms. There are only 30 days left, perhaps the most important for the preparation of this great event that will mark a before and after of the Colombian sport and of all the Americas. I invite everyone to be part of this sports party, to take care of each other and to encourage this new generation of athletes that represent our future", President of Panam Sports, Neven Ilic.