Flowers, Costumes, and Dancing with the Devil: A Year of Celebration in Colombia

Colombia is a country of celebrations and festivals, with a packed calendar of events. From carnivals and book fairs to flower festivals and street parties, there is something for everyone, no matter what time of year you visit.

To help travelers plan their vacation around Colombia’s main celebrations, here’s a round-up of the unmissable events from across the country including what to expect, when they’re happening, and how to make the most of your time there.

Dance at The Carnaval del Diablo

Planning to travel to Colombia during an odd-numbered year? Then make sure the Carnaval del Diablo (translated to English, Festival of the Devil) is on your to-do list. This biennial party starts on January 6 and carries on through January 12, so makes for a good celebration in the post-festive holiday slump. The aim of the celebration is to ward off sadness and is considered one of the most traditional events in Colombia.

The festival takes place in Riosucio, a town in the department of Caldas, known for its caves and caverns. Locals and visitors, especially the children, dress up like the devil, dance to traditional music, feast together and read poetry. There’s also sugar cane liquor to sweeten the deal. On the last day of the festival, people watch the burning of a giant devil effigy after it parades through the streets, to signify new beginnings.

As the Carnaval del Diablo is a busy time of year for the town, it’s recommended to book accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Carnival of Barranquilla

As far as carnivals go, Barranquilla is one of the best in the world. It’s a heady mix of music, incredible costumes, and great food. And with an official slogan of “Those who live it are those who enjoy it”, visitors know they’re going to be in for a once in a lifetime experience.

This is a celebration of traditional Colombia, with performances that showcase the talent and variety of the various indigenous and ethnic groups of the country, with dazzling costumes and incredible dancing. UNESCO declared the event as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, truly showing its cultural importance.

The weekend of the carnival is packed, beginning the Saturday before Ash Wednesday with the Battle of the Flowers, and continuing with the Great Parade, an Orchestra Festival and other memorable moments. For those who prefer smaller crowds or want to extend the festivities, there are pre-carnival events happening in the weeks running up to the main event. Enjoy the crowning of the carnival Queen, cultural dancing, and the Guacherna night parade.

Experience the Summer Festival of the Flowers in Medellin

Medellin, the second-largest city in Colombia and known as the city of eternal spring, hosts this celebration in August. It brings together music, flower murals, and parades, appealing to all the senses.

During the festivities, people can witness many different traditional and cultural events such as a horse fair, old cars parade, and a dog parade. Not forgetting the musical concerts put on around the city and the stunning fireworks that open and close the event. The national “Trova” festival, a singing competition where two singers have to improvise verses in a duel, is also a spectacle not to be missed during the event.

The festival ends with the Silleteros Parade. Local flower growers march around the city carrying elaborate arrangements on their backs. Some of the largest can weigh up to 70 kilograms and measure up to five meters, making it one of the most incredible sights of the festival.

These events bring together both residents and visitors to celebrate the very best of the Colombia’s cultural heritage. So, whenever you decide to visit, there will be something fantastic to take part in.