Colombia is a vibrant and diverse country, known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm and welcoming people. It is also a country that loves to celebrate, with a wide range of holidays and festivals throughout the year. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the top 10 holidays to celebrate in Colombia, and explore the unique traditions and customs that make each one special.
1. Carnival of Barranquilla
The Carnival of Barranquilla is the largest and most famous carnival in Colombia, and one of the biggest in the world. It takes place every year in the coastal city of Barranquilla, and is a celebration of the city’s Afro-Caribbean heritage. The carnival features colorful parades, street parties, traditional dances, and music, making it a feast for the senses. It is a true representation of the vibrant and lively spirit of Colombia.
2. Holy Week
Holy Week, or Semana Santa, is a week-long celebration leading up to Easter Sunday. It is a deeply religious holiday in Colombia, with many people attending church services and taking part in processions. The most famous Holy Week celebrations take place in Popayán, where the streets are lined with intricate and elaborate religious statues. It is a beautiful and moving experience, and a must-see for anyone visiting Colombia during this time.
3. Independence Day
Colombia celebrates its independence from Spain on July 20th every year. It is a national holiday and is marked with parades, concerts, and fireworks displays across the country. The biggest celebrations take place in the capital city, Bogotá, where the main square is transformed into a sea of yellow, blue, and red, the colors of the Colombian flag. It is a great opportunity to experience the patriotic spirit of Colombia and learn more about its history.
4. Flower Festival
The Flower Festival, or Feria de las Flores, is an annual event held in Medellín, known as the city of eternal spring. It is a celebration of the city’s flower industry and features elaborate floral displays, parades, and concerts. The highlight of the festival is the Desfile de Silleteros, where local farmers carry huge flower arrangements on their backs, showcasing their skill and creativity. It is a colorful and lively celebration that should not be missed.
5. Day of the Dead
In Colombia, the Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a time to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. It is a mix of indigenous and Catholic traditions and is celebrated on November 1st and 2nd every year. People visit cemeteries to decorate the graves of their loved ones with flowers and candles, and to share food and drinks with them. It is a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate the lives of those who have passed on.
6. Christmas
Christmas is a big event in Colombia, with celebrations starting as early as December 7th, or Día de las Velitas. This day marks the start of the holiday season, and people light candles and lanterns to celebrate the Immaculate Conception. Other traditions include building nativity scenes, attending midnight mass, and enjoying traditional Christmas foods like tamales and buñuelos. Christmas is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate the joy of the season.
7. New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve is a big celebration in Colombia, with people gathering to ring in the new year with family and friends. Many cities have public fireworks displays, and people wear yellow underwear for good luck. One unique tradition in Colombia is the burning of the “año viejo,” or the old year. People create effigies of famous people or events from the past year and burn them at midnight, symbolizing the end of the old and the start of the new.
8. Day of the Little Candles
The Day of the Little Candles, or Día de las Velitas, is a popular holiday in Colombia, celebrated on December 7th. It is a traditional Catholic holiday, marking the start of the Christmas season. People light candles, lanterns, and fireworks to celebrate the Immaculate Conception and to honor the Virgin Mary. It is a beautiful and magical sight to see the streets and windows lit up with candles and lights.
9. National Beauty Pageant
The National Beauty Pageant, or Concurso Nacional de Belleza, is more than just a beauty pageant in Colombia. It is a month-long celebration of Colombian culture, talent, and beauty. The pageant features parades, cultural events, and a competition to crown the country’s most beautiful woman. It is a highly anticipated event and a great opportunity to learn more about Colombia’s diverse and stunningly beautiful women.
10. Independence of Cartagena
On November 11th, Colombia celebrates the independence of Cartagena, a historic city on the Caribbean coast. This day marks the end of Spanish rule in the city and is celebrated with parades, concerts, and street parties. The most famous event is the Battle of the Bridges, where different teams compete in a race across the city’s bridges. It is a fun and exciting celebration that showcases the city’s vibrant culture and history.
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