Columbia is an enthralling place where you can have the time of your life. But, that’s not all. Here, you can come across wondrous and colorful festivals that can enrich your soul and fill you with delight. It is one of the few countries in the world where they enjoy the most national holidays, which is spread throughout the year.
However, since it is a Catholic country, you will find the most important festivals are held during the Easter and Christmas. And, missing these festivals is not an option. So, take a look at all the unmissable festivals in Columbia, where you will have the time of your life.
Black and White Festival, January, Pasto
Black and White is the most popular festival in Columbia. A large crowd of tourists gather every year to soak in the celebrations and have an incredible time. This festival is said to have originated during the Agrarian Indian cultures of the region where they paid tribute to the goddess of Moon. However, with time, this festival has changed and now you can see Spanish and African influences.
The celebrations stretch up to three days and every day, the theme is new. From vivacious floats being paraded on the streets to adults and children throwing talcum powder at each other, you see an amalgamation of diverse cultures here.
Barranquilla Carnaval, February, Barranquilla
What does a festival mean to you? Are you looking for a carnival-style glory, filled with colors, Caribbean vibes, and Columbian culture? Then Barranquilla Carnaval, which takes place every February, is exactly what you need. It is the world’s second-largest carnival after Rio and the pre-carnival celebrations start by mid-January. From groovy live music to parades, it’s simply exotic!
Every year, more than 1.5 million people are present at this carnival and you will also be able to see famous national and international artists perform. From cumbia to mapale, the music is swoon-worthy. In fact, it is so good that it has been declared a World Culture Heritage Event by UNESCO. So, now you know.
Semana Santa, Easter, Popayán
Popayán, located in southwestern Columbia is extremely popular for its colonial architecture. Also known as the religious capital of the country, you will find a plethora of beautiful churches here, each one taking your breath away. Every year for Easter, Popayán hosts Semana Santa, which is the second-largest Easter celebration in the world. So, if festivals are your thing, you know where to head to.
World Salsa Festival, Cali
Are you a dance and music fan? If yes, you are in for a treat. Every August or September, Cali hosts a World Salsa Festival. Now, as the name suggests, you already know that it’s something to do with the dance form and not the food. During the festival, you will find hundreds of salsa performers and talented musicians from all across the globe taking part. Apart from that, you can keep yourself busy by attending exciting workshops, talks, exhibitions and more and have a gala time.
We recommend purchasing Travel Protection while billing the ticket. It will protect you from the unexpected – trip cancellation, trip delay, trip interruption, baggage delay, emergency evacuation, and emergency medical expenses. Besides, you will also get 24/7 travel assistance services, making your travel so much more sorted.
