Carnaval de Barranquilla
If there’s one festival you shouldn’t miss in Colombia, it’s the Carnaval de Barranquilla. This is the second-largest carnival in the world, and it’s out of this world. The streets of Barranquilla explode with color, music, and dance for four days. Expect parades, costumes, and some crazy parties.
The festival happens every year in February or March, depending on when Easter falls. It’s their way of celebrating before Lent starts. If you’re a traveler who loves a good party, this carnival is where you need to be. The entire city comes alive, and it truly feels like everyone in Colombia is there.
One of the highlights is the “Batalla de Flores,” the Battle of Flowers. This parade showcases floats, dancers, and traditional folklore. You’ll see Colombian culture on full display. Make sure to bring a camera and document the beautiful energy of the event. It’s chaotic, but in the best possible way.
Feria de las Flores in Medellín
In August, you need to head to Medellín for the Feria de las Flores, also known as the Flower Festival. Medellín is known as the “city of eternal spring,” and this festival helps to explain why. It’s a week-long celebration of flowers, and it really brightens the whole community.
The main highlight is the “Silleteros Parade,” where farmers from the nearby region carry massive flower arrangements on their backs. It’s something unique and specific to the culture of the region. The flowers are gorgeous, and the creativity behind these arrangements is jaw-dropping.
Besides the main parade, you’ll also find concerts, antique car parades, and plenty of food stalls to grab delicious local snacks. If you’re a flower lover or just someone who enjoys large cultural events, the Feria de las Flores should not be missed.
Festival Iberoamericano de Teatro in Bogotá

If you’re around Bogotá in March or April, the Festival Iberoamericano de Teatro is an absolute must. This event is one of the biggest theater festivals in the world, and it brings performers and artists from all over South America, Europe, and beyond.
It started in 1988 and has been growing ever since. You’ll see performances all around the city, ranging from street theater to musicals and experimental shows. If you can’t speak Spanish, don’t worry. There are a handful of performances in English and others where the visual elements do the storytelling.
This festival happens every two years, so make sure to check the dates before you book your visit. The city gets really busy during the event, and the energy is exciting. It’s perfect if you’re a lover of the arts or someone who just wants to experience something a little off the beaten path in Colombia.
Festival Nacional de la Leyenda Vallenata in Valledupar
Colombia’s music scene is rich, and there’s no better place to dive into it than at the Festival Nacional de la Leyenda Vallenata. This festival, which happens in late April or early May in Valledupar, focuses on vallenato, a traditional style of Colombian music that’s packed with accordions, guitars, and deep-rooted emotions.
If you don’t know much about vallenato, don’t worry. By the end of this festival, you’ll be a fan. Musicians from all over Colombia come together to compete and showcase their skills. Crowds gather to sing, dance, and feel the music with full intensity.
This is Colombia’s version of a folk music festival. It’s tied to the Caribbean coast, and it feels truly authentic. Grab a beer, find a spot in the crowd, and enjoy the purest sounds of Colombia. The locals will make you feel welcome wherever you go.
Black and White Carnival (Carnaval de Negros y Blancos) in Pasto
Mark your calendar for January if you want to experience the Black and White Carnival in Pasto. This celebration is all about cultural diversity. It’s Colombia’s way of saying everyone is equal, and the festival is a lot of fun.

The festival is divided into two main days: Black Day and White Day. On Black Day, everyone paints their faces black with grease or makeup. On White Day, people throw white powder at each other. The idea is to break down social barriers through playful interactions.
Expect dancing, parades, and some wonderfully strange traditions. It’s a bit like experiencing two opposites in one festival. If you want to experience Colombia’s commitment to unity in diversity, this carnival is the right one for you.
Festival de la Cumbia in El Banco
El Banco, a small town in Magdalena, hosts a unique event every June: the Festival Nacional de la Cumbia. Cumbia is one of Colombia’s most well-known dances, and this is where experts come to celebrate it. The whole town turns into a stage.
Music fills the air, especially cumbia rhythms. You’ll see people of all ages dancing, and the vibe feels communal. Cumbia is a symbol of Colombia’s coastal roots, and this festival is the prime place to experience this musical heritage up-close.

The festival also includes some traditional food, lots of friendly locals, and performances by Colombian bands, so it’s perfect if you want to experience small-town Colombian charm with a side of toe-tapping music.
Feria de Cali
For salsa lovers, Feria de Cali is your paradise. This salsa-dance festival happens in late December and lasts for six days. Cali is often called the “salsa capital of the world,” and during the Feria, it’s clear why.
Most people come to watch the salsa competitions. Professional dancers from all around come to show off what they’ve got. If you have two left feet, don’t worry. There are dance classes for beginners, and almost every bar and club in Cali will have a spot where you can jump in.

Besides salsa, there are also horse parades, beauty pageants, and street parties. Whether you’re ready to show your moves or just want to feel the rhythm of the city, Feria de Cali is a must-experience event if you’re in Colombia at the end of the year.
Independence Day Celebrations in Cartagena
If you’re in Colombia in November, head to Cartagena to join their unique La Independencia celebrations. While Colombia’s official Independence Day is in July, Cartagena makes November special with music, parades, and a celebration of its distinct Afro-Caribbean culture.
The grand finale is usually the beauty pageant, “Reinado Nacional de Belleza,” where Colombians crown the country’s next beauty queen. The vibe in the city is electric. You’ll feel the pride of the locals as they wave flags and engage in traditional dances.
The city also hosts several free concerts featuring Colombian artists. Pair all that with Cartagena’s stunning old-town architecture, and you’ve got yourself an event that’s easy on both your eyes and ears.
Christmas Lights in Medellín
If you’re traveling to Colombia in December around Christmas, you can’t skip Medellín’s famous Christmas lights, the “Alumbrados.” The entire city gets lit up with millions of colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
This spectacle runs from early December to early January, so you have almost a full month to catch it. The lights are mainly along the Medellín River, but there are plenty of smaller displays around the city, especially in the neighborhoods.
Locals love to come out at night to watch the lights and eat street food. There’s a community feeling, and it’s a festive way to celebrate the holiday season. Plus, Medellín is great to visit in December because the weather is always mild, which is perfect for nighttime walks under the lights.
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