The Matilda actress celebrated her birthday in Colombia: see the photos and videos
Mara Wilson, the Matilda actress, visited Santa Marta amidst its 500th anniversary. She toured the beaches, celebrated her birthday, and praised Colombia
Santa Marta, Colombia – American actress and writer Mara Wilson, remembered worldwide for her beloved role as Matilda, is visiting Colombia, where she caused a stir during her stay in Santa Marta as part of the city's 500th anniversary celebrations.
Wilson has been exploring the tourist attractions of the capital of Magdalena, where she not only enjoyed its beaches and landscapes, but also celebrated her birthday alongside locals and tourists, leaving fond memories in each place she visited.
During her stay, the actress visited iconic locations such as Bello Horizonte, Santa Marta Bay, and Cabo San Juan del Guía beach, within Tayrona National Natural Park. There, while gazing at the turquoise sea and the region's natural beauty, she exclaimed, "Colombia is the most beautiful country in the world."
In addition, Mara experienced one of the city's most colorful traditions up close: the whalers' parade. Aboard a catamaran, she watched these decorated vessels sail along the Caribbean coast, celebrating the maritime culture of Santa Marta.
On Sunday, she embarked on a boat trip through the islets of Tayrona Park until she returned to Cabo San Juan. She also toured the tropical dry forest, where she was amazed by the biodiversity of the area's flora and fauna.
Wilson's visit coincided with her birthday, which she celebrated at a renowned restaurant in the city. Fabián Rodríguez, Colombian chef and owner of the establishment, shared the images of the special moment. “Remember Matilda? Today I had the honor of not only cooking but also celebrating @marawilson’s birthday,” she wrote on Instagram.
In the video, the actress is seen smiling and clapping while people sing “Happy Birthday” to her with a dessert in front of her. Her simplicity and warmth were highlighted by internet users, who expressed their excitement with messages like “Beautiful Matilda 😍✨,” “Spectacular ❤️,” and “Welcome to the wonderful city.”
Images of Mara at a local hotel also went viral, where she was welcomed by guests and employees who didn’t hesitate to pay tribute to her with a clip in which she dances and has fun to the rhythm of Little Bitty Pretty One, the song from an iconic scene from Matilda.
For its 500th anniversary, Santa Marta has launched a broad cultural program, with concerts, parades, and culinary activities, consolidating its position as a must-see tourist destination in the Colombian Caribbean. Mara Wilson's visit was undoubtedly one of the most memorable moments of this historic celebration.