Important Dates in Colombia for the Year 2024

A new year has begun and we want to bring to your attention some interesting dates of different festivals in Colombia. Additionally, between June and November, we always welcome humpback whales on the Colombian Pacific coast and the start of the season of the colorful „Caño Cristales“ river. Here's a small chronology throughout the year.

 

Holy Week in Popayan

Date: March 21 - 30, 2024

Location: Popayan (Southern Colombia)

Holy Week in Popayán is part of the intangible UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. During evening processions in the colonial center of the "White City," candles are lit, artificial lights are turned off and solemn Easter processions traverse the city. It provides a feeling of being transported centuries back in time, immersing oneself in a deep spiritual and cultural atmosphere. The Easter processions in Popayan are an exciting spectacle even for non-Catholics.

 

Carnival in Barranquilla

Date: February 10 - 13, 2024

Location: Barranquilla (Caribbean coast, between Santa Marta and Cartagena)

The Barranquilla Carnival is a captivating spectacle of colorful parades, lively music, dance and Caribbean rhythms. After the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, it is one of the most renowned and largest carnival processions in Latin America. The festivities were added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2008.

 

Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata

Date: April 30 - May 04, 2024

Location: Valledupar (Northeastern Colombia)

This festival in Valledupar is a tribute to Vallenato music, where the most talented Vallenato artists showcase their skills in various competitions, celebrating the rich cultural tradition of the region. Vallenato music, characterized by the accordion, a double-headed drum and the Güira (scraper instrument), is traditionally widespread on the Caribbean coast. Fun Fact: The accordion came to Colombia a long time ago through German immigrants. 

 

Visit to the Rainbow River (Caño Cristales)

Rainbow River Season: June to November

Location: La Macarena, Southern Colombia

The best time to visit "Caño Cristales" is from June to November when the water level is optimal to see the characteristic colorful water plants, especially the red-blooming Macarenia Clavigera algae, in clear water. The "River of Five Colors," often referred to as the most beautiful river in the world in Colombia, appears in its full glory during these months.

 

Whale Watching Season

Season: June to November

Location: Colombian Pacific Coast

The whale-watching season on the Colombian Pacific coast usually extends from June to November. During these months, many humpback whales come to the warm waters off the Pacific coast of Colombia to calve and raise their calves. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to participate in whale-watching tours and experience this impressive natural spectacle. We are pleased to offer our trusted Pacific Lodges for this experience.

 

Feria de las Flores in Medellín

Date: July 26 - August 05, 2024

Location: Medellín

Medellín's Flower Festival is a colorful event where flower parades, competitions and artistic performances transform the city into a vibrant sea of flowers. During the famous "Silleteros" parade, women and men from the Santa Elena district walk through the streets carrying elaborate flower arrangements on their shoulders.

 

Feria de Cali

Date: December 25 - 30, 2024

Location: Cali

The Feria de Cali is an annual festival in Cali, the third-largest city in Colombia, taking place at the end of December and beginning of January. It includes traditional music, dance, parades and culinary delights, with highlights such as the "Salsodromo" parade and impressive fireworks. The event attracts visitors from around the world, reflecting the vibrant culture and joy of the region.

 

Carnaval de Negros y Blancos

Date: January 02 - 07, 2025

Location: Pasto (Southern Colombia, not far from the border with Ecuador)

The "Carnaval de Negros y Blancos" in Pasto celebrates cultural diversity and social integration. Taking place from January 2nd to 7th, the festival emphasizes the equality of all people, regardless of skin color and origin. Through colorful parades and the "Pintada," the festival symbolizes the joy of cultural diversity and community.

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