Do you dream of exploring rich cultures filled with music, light, and tradition? If you’ve ever longed for colorful festivals, spiritual holidays, or unique customs that connect people, Colombia is calling your name.
You’re the curious traveler, the culture lover, the one seeking stories beyond the ordinary; and you’re not alone. Many want to discover authentic traditions that go deeper than tourist guides.
Here’s what you’ll find in this article:
- Festivals of Fire, Color & Faith
- Christmas Celebrations with a Colombian Twist
- Wedding Traditions that Surprise and Delight
Keep reading and take the first step into a world of candles, carnivals, and community; you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of Colombia and stories worth sharing.
History of Holidays in Colombia
Colombia’s history is deeply rooted in its local cultures, which thrived in the region for over 12,000 years. The Spanish arrived in the late 15th century and swiftly colonized the area, establishing the New Kingdom of Granada.
After centuries of colonial rule, Colombia declared independence in 1810, and despite struggles, fully secured its independence by 1819, forming Gran Colombia. This union eventually dissolved in 1831, and Colombia emerged as a separate republic.
In the 20th century, Colombia faced intense political instability, including civil wars and the rise of armed groups like the FARC. These conflicts, particularly during the mid-20th century, contributed to widespread violence.
However, a historic peace agreement with the FARC in 2016 marked a turning point, signaling a shift toward stability and progress. In recent years, Colombia has experienced economic growth, improved security, and a stronger rule of law.
Colombia Cultural Traditions
Colombia’s cultural traditions are a lively blend of local, African, and Spanish influences, creating a unique and dynamic society. Festivals like the Carnaval de Barranquilla and Feria de Cali show the country’s love for music, dance, and celebration, while customs such as the Pot Gathering bring families together to enjoy traditional meals like sancocho.
Colombians also celebrate religious events with deep respect, such as Semana Santa, and enjoy the festive spirit of Christmas with customs like the Novena de Aguinaldos.
Music and dance are at the heart of Colombian culture, with genres like vallenato, cumbia, and salsa capturing the energy of the people. Colombian food also plays a central role, with dishes like arepas and natilla being enjoyed during holidays and everyday life.
To learn more about Colombia’s fascinating cultural traditions, explore the details of unforgettable celebrations in the rest of the article.
See Also Colombian Traditions
1. Carnaval del Diablo
The Carnaval del Diablo, or Carnival of the Devil, is one of Colombia’s most unique and symbolic festivals, celebrated every two years in the town of Riosucio. Originating in 1911 as a peace-making event between two rival villages; Quiebralomo and La Montaña, the carnival uses humor, creativity, and community spirit to promote unity.
Though the devil figure might seem ominous, in this context it represents joy, release, and cultural expression. The festival begins with the “Pregon,” a grand announcement inviting all to join, and unfolds through parades, devil costumes, traditional music, dance, feasting, and poetry.
Held in early January of odd-numbered years, the Carnaval del Diablo is both a cultural and spiritual experience. Highlights include the “Testament of the Devil,” a comical summary of the festivities, and the grand finale; the burning of a giant devil effigy, symbolizing the release of sorrow and a renewal of joy.
Visitors from around the country flock to Riosucio, often camping due to limited accommodation. Blending Catholic and original traditions with satire and celebration, this carnival is a vivid expression of Colombian creativity and inner strength.
2. Day of the Candles
The Day of the Little Candles, or Día de las Velitas, is one of Colombia’s most heartwarming and visually stunning celebrations. Held each year on December 7, it marks the eve of the Immaculate Conception and is seen as the unofficial beginning of the Christmas season.
On this night, Colombians light candles and paper lanterns on windowsills, balconies, sidewalks, and public spaces in honor of the Virgin Mary. The whole country glows with soft, flickering light, creating a magical and spiritual atmosphere.
Celebrated with family and neighbors, this holiday is also filled with joy, food, and tradition. December 8 is a public holiday, and homes proudly display white flags bearing the Virgin Mary’s image.
Children often play games, including collecting wax from melted candles, while families enjoy festive foods like buñuelos (cheese fritters), natilla (cinnamon milk custard), and hojuelas (crispy pastries).
3. Barranquilla Carnival
The Barranquilla Carnival is Colombia’s most colorful and joyful celebration, held annually in the Caribbean city of Barranquilla. Taking place in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday, this four-day festival explodes with music, parades, traditional dance, and lively costumes.
It honors the diverse identity of the Caribbean people of Colombia and features major events like the Battle of the Flowers, the Great Parade of Folklore, and the Orchestra Festival. With over 500 folkloric groups participating, the entire city becomes a stage of cultural pride and unity.
The carnival blends local, African, and Spanish traditions. The pre-carnival begins in January with symbolic ceremonies like the reading of the Bando and the handover of the city keys to the Carnival Queen. Iconic characters like Rey Momo and the comical marimonda add a theatrical touch to the celebration.
Visitors not only enjoy the celebrations but also explore Barranquilla’s cultural gems such as the Caribbean Museum and the Gran Malecón del Río, all while enjoing local dishes like arroz de lisa, empanadas, and sancocho de guandú.
4. Wayúu Culture Festival
The Wayúu Culture Festival, held annually in Uribia between May and June, is one of Colombia’s most important local celebrations. It honors the rich cultural heritage of the Wayúu people, who make up nearly half of La Guajira’s population.
Declared a Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2006, the festival shows lively traditions through handmade crafts, traditional dances like Yonna, ritual music, and local cuisine.
Visitors can explore artisanal fairs featuring woven mochilas, hammocks, and palm hats, while tasting unique dishes like friche and shapurana made from goat meat.
More than a festival gathering, the event is a meaningful expression of Wayúu identity and spirituality. It includes rituals that celebrate life, healing, and nature’s blessings. The highlight, Majayut de Oro, honors a woman who best represents Wayúu wisdom and tradition, focusing on cultural knowledge rather than physical beauty.
Through dance, storytelling, and shared customs, the Wayúu Culture Festival strengthens community bonds and invites the world to appreciate Colombia’s local roots and cultural diversity.
5. Santa Semanta
In Colombia, Semana Santa (Holy Week) is a very important and special time. It shows the country’s strong Catholic faith. It starts on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday. During this week, people go to church, walk in big parades, and spend time with family.
The most famous events happen in Popayán, a city with white old buildings. At night, people carry big wooden statues of Jesus and other Bible figures in quiet parades. These parades are so special that UNESCO calls them a world treasure.
Other towns like Mompox and Ipiales also have special events. In Mompox, people walk through the old streets in processions. In Ipiales, many people visit a beautiful church called Santuario de las Lajas, built in a deep valley.
Even in Bogotá, people celebrate. At the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, which is underground, people join in prayers and walk past colorful lights and crosses. Semana Santa is a time for prayer and quiet thinking, but also a time to enjoy Colombia’s culture, art, and history.
Christmas Traditions in Colombia
Christmas in Colombia is a joyful and deeply spiritual season filled with warmth, tradition, and community. The celebrations officially begin on December 7th with the Day of the Little Candles (Noche de las Velitas), where families light candles and lanterns in honor of the Virgin Mary, illuminating streets and homes with a magical glow.
From December 16th to the 24th, Colombians gather each evening for the Novena de Aguinaldos, a beloved tradition of prayers, carols, and festive food shared among family and friends. These nights bring people together through laughter, faith, and music.
What makes Colombian Christmas especially unique is the focus on Baby Jesus (Niño Dios) instead of Santa Claus. Children write letters to Baby Jesus asking for gifts, and families place the figurine in the nativity scene before exchanging presents.
Lively Parrandas; street caroling with instruments and dancing, keep the party going, and special foods like natilla and buñuelos add a delicious touch. Colombian Christmas is a beautiful blend of light, devotion, joy, and tradition. keep reading to discover even more heartwarming Christmas traditions that make this season so special!
See Also Colombian Wedding Traditions
6. Noche De Las Velitas
Noche de las Velitas, or the Night of the Little Candles, is one of Colombia’s most beloved Christmas traditions. Celebrated on December 7th, this special night marks the beginning of the festive season and honors the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary.
Families and communities light candles and place lanterns along windowsills, balconies, sidewalks, and streets, creating a warm, glowing atmosphere that brings neighborhoods together. Though rooted in Catholic tradition, this celebration is welcomed by people of all backgrounds, making it a joyful and unifying event across the country.
The magic of Noche de las Velitas goes beyond candlelight. The evening often includes music, traditional Christmas songs, delicious festive foods, and local celebrations that vary by region. For instance, in Colombia’s Caribbean areas, people may start lighting candles early in the evening, while others continue into the morning.
Whether shared with family or friends, this night is filled with hope, beauty, and community spirit.
7. Niño Dios
In Colombia, Christmas is deeply rooted in the religious tradition of honoring El Niño Dios; the Baby Jesus, who is believed to bring gifts to children on Christmas Eve.
Instead of writing letters to Santa Claus, Colombian children address their Christmas wishes to Niño Jesús, and families gather on the night of the 24th to exchange gifts he “delivers.”
Nativity scenes, known as el pesebre, feature prominently in homes, with Baby Jesus at the center, symbolizing the true meaning of the holiday. The season is also marked by the Novena de Aguinaldos, a cherished nine day prayer gathering filled with songs, instruments, and community spirit, celebrated from December 16th to 24th.
For many Colombian families, especially those living abroad, El Niño Dios remains the heart of Christmas, representing not just the joy of giving but also the religious roots of the season. These traditions help reinforce values like faith, togetherness, and gratitude in children, even as they are surrounded by globalized images of Santa Claus.
For parents, blending both worlds; faithful tradition and festive fun, becomes a meaningful way to teach the deeper significance of Christmas: the birth of Christ, the first gift of love and hope to humanity.
8. Parrandas
Parrandas are one of the most joyful and lively Christmas traditions in Colombia. They bring together groups of friends and neighbors to form spontaneous musical parades, filled with singing, dancing, and celebration.
People walk through the streets playing traditional instruments like the tiple and bass, while singing “música de diciembre”; special Christmas songs that carry the festive spirit of the season. These parrandas are not just about music; they are a way to connect with the community and spread holiday cheer.
In many towns, especially in places like Remedios, parrandas become even more lively with neighborhoods competing in costume and music on Christmas Eve. Families open their doors to the singing groups, enjoying the surprise performances and the warmth they bring.
Whether it’s a small gathering or a full-blown street parade, parrandas capture the heart of Colombian Christmas; joy, tradition, and togetherness.
Marriage Traditions in Colombia
Marriage in Colombia is a beautiful mix of cultural traditions, religious rituals, and deep family connections. Couples may choose between a civil or religious ceremony, with civil weddings handled by a notary. Rather than the usual best man or maid of honor, Colombian weddings often include a godmother and godfather who provide spiritual guidance and emotional support.
Special moments like the Candle Ceremony, where the couple lights a candle together to symbolize unity, and Las Arras, where the groom presents 13 coins to show his dedication, make the celebration even more meaningful.
Colombian weddings are filled with joy, music, and heartfelt moments. One charming tradition is the Serenade, where the groom sings to his bride before the wedding. During the reception, the fun continues with the Bachelor Shoes game, where single men place their shoes under the bride’s dress, and one is chosen to predict the next groom.
Families play an important role, filling the event with love and laughter. Read on to explore more about these rich traditions and how they reflect the spirit of Colombian culture.
9. Serenade
In Colombian wedding traditions, the serenata is a heartfelt and romantic gesture where the groom surprises his bride-to-be with a musical serenade, usually the night before the wedding. Accompanied by a mariachi band or live musicians, he sings romantic songs to express his love and loyalty.
This event often takes place at the bride’s home or another meaningful location, and it’s witnessed by close family and friends, making it a memorable and emotional celebration.
The serenata is more than just music, it symbolizes deep affection and devotion before the couple officially begins their married life. It’s a touching moment that brings everyone together in joy and anticipation for the big day.
Sometimes, the serenade is followed by an intimate after-party, where loved ones celebrate with dancing and laughter, adding to the excitement of the upcoming wedding.
10. Bachelor Shoes game
In Colombian wedding traditions, the “bachelor shoes” game is a playful and symbolic custom that replaces the typical garter toss.
During the wedding reception, all the single male guests secretly place one of their shoes under the bride’s dress. Then, in a light-hearted moment, the groom reaches under the dress and pulls out one shoe at random.
The man whose shoe is chosen is believed to be the next one to get married. This fun and charming game brings excitement and laughter to the celebration, while also involving the single male guests in a unique way.
It reflects the joyful and communal spirit of Colombian weddings, where traditions are infused with love, humor, and a strong sense of togetherness.
11. Las Arras
In Colombian weddings, Las Arras is a meaningful tradition where the groom gives the bride thirteen gold coins, representing his promise to support and provide for their future family.
The coins, blessed by a priest, symbolize prosperity, unity, and trust. The number thirteen is also symbolic, representing Jesus and the twelve apostles, showing that the marriage is rooted in faith and spiritual loyalty.
Sometimes, the bride returns the coins to the groom, showing her intention to share responsibility and support their family together. This exchange highlights the couple’s mutual respect and partnership.
Though the details of the ritual may vary slightly, Las Arras remains a cherished moment in Colombian weddings, symbolizing love, faith, and the beginning of a shared life.
Traditional Holidays in Colombia: A Recap
Colombia’s traditional holidays beautifully reflect its rich cultural textile, shaped by local roots, Spanish influence, and deep religious devotion. From the symbolic humor of the Carnaval del Diablo to the glowing respect of the Day of the Candles, each celebration is a vivid expression of Colombian identity and unity.
The Barranquilla Carnival bursts with music and dance, while the Wayúu Festival honors indigenous wisdom and ingenuity.
Semana Santa and Christmas traditions like Noche de las Velitas and the focus on Niño Dios reveal the spiritual heartbeat of the nation. Even marriage customs carry symbolic depth, showing Colombia’s value on community, faith, and joyful traditions.
Together, these holidays paint a picture of a lively, diverse culture where celebration, spirituality, and family connect.