Colombia is a destination where fairs, carnivals, and festivals take place throughout the year. If you are looking for things to do in Colombia, these celebrations are an opportunity to discover the country's cultural richness through its rhythms, gastronomy, handicrafts, and traditional expressions. Each region celebrates in its own way, turning these festivities into authentic experiences that connect you with the essence of the country of beauty. Among all these festivities, we present three that will allow you to experience firsthand the rhythm, tradition, and energy of unforgettable events.
Barranquilla Carnival: an explosion of music, tradition, and joy
Every year, between January and February, Barranquilla comes alive with music, color, and tradition during the Barranquilla Carnival, a cultural celebration recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. For four days, the streets of “Colombia's Golden Gate” become a stage for parades, dance groups, and traditional expressions such as Guacherna and the Battle of the Flowers, where cumbia, costumes, and the joy of the Colombian Caribbean invite travelers from around the world to enjoy an experience filled with rhythm, culture, and tradition because those who experience it are the ones who truly enjoy it.
Things to do in Barranquilla
In addition to enjoying the carnival, in Barranquilla you can stroll along the Gran Malecón del Río to admire the sunset over the Magdalena River, discover history and art at the Carnival Museum, taste the region's traditional cuisine, and visit Puerto Mocho, a nearby beach ideal for relaxing and connecting with the city's coastal essence.
Recommendations for visiting Barranquilla
- Book in advance. During carnival season, demand for flights and accommodation increases considerably, so it is advisable to plan your trip ahead of time.
- Check the official schedule. Before traveling, review the dates and activities of the Barranquilla Carnival to plan which parades and events you would like to enjoy. For more information about the schedule, click here.
- How to get there? Barranquilla has domestic and international air connections through Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport. You can also travel by road from different cities in the Colombian Caribbean. Check the connectivity options to organize your trip.
Black and White Carnival: color and culture to start the year
Every year, at the beginning of January, Pasto comes alive with music, color, and tradition during the Black and White Carnival, a celebration recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2009. During this festivity, the city's streets welcome dance groups, musical ensembles, and monumental floats created by master artisans, reflecting the creativity and cultural heritage of the region. Experience Black Day and White Day and start the year by enjoying one of the most representative cultural expressions of southern Colombia.
Things to do in Pasto
You can discover unique natural landscapes such as La Cocha Lagoon, visit the Las Lajas Sanctuary, considered an architectural gem of the country, and enjoy traditional Nariño cuisine, known for its traditional flavors and ancestral preparations. You can also explore local artisans' workshops and learn more about the cultural expressions that make this region an authentic destination full of tradition.
Recommendations for visiting Pasto
- Plan your visit around the carnival activities. The Black and White Carnival takes place every year from January 2 to 7. Check the official schedule to learn about the parade routes and cultural activities held during those days.
- Arrive early for the main events. During the celebration, the streets of Pasto welcome a large influx of visitors, so planning your travel in advance will allow you to enjoy the parades and floats more comfortably.
- How to get to Pasto? You can travel by air to Antonio Nariño Airport, located in the municipality of Chachagüí, or travel by road from different cities across the country. Before your trip, check the available connectivity options to choose the route that best suits your itinerary.
Cali Fair: music and dancing in the city of eternal sunshine
Every year, during the last week of December, Cali, recognized as the world capital of salsa, celebrates one of the country's most representative festivities: Cali Fair. During these days, "The City of Eternal Sunshine" comes alive with music, dance, and tradition. One of the most anticipated events is the Salsódromo, the opening parade in which dancers from salsa schools take to the streets with colorful choreography and costumes. The program also includes the Meeting of Music Lovers and Collectors, concerts, and other cultural activities that turn the city into a great celebration of salsa.
Things to do in Cali
Stroll along Bulevar del Río, visit the San Antonio neighborhood, admire the city from Cristo Rey, and discover the flavors of Valle del Cauca cuisine. You can also learn a few salsa steps and experience firsthand the rhythm that defines the world capital of this genre.
Recommendations for visiting Cali
- Check the fair schedule. Cali Fair brings together parades, concerts, and cultural activities at different locations throughout the city. Before traveling, check the official agenda to organize your itinerary and make the most of the events that interest you most.
- Experience the salsa culture. In addition to attending the fair events, take advantage of your visit to discover Cali's salsa tradition through its dance schools and cultural spaces dedicated to this musical genre.
- How to get there? You can fly to Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport, which connects Cali with different cities in Colombia and abroad. It is also possible to travel by road from various destinations across the country. Check the connectivity options to plan your trip.
If you are wondering what to do in Colombia, include one of its carnivals, fairs, or festivities in your itinerary. Book your accommodation in advance and get ready to enjoy authentic experiences that will allow you to discover the country's cultural, musical, and traditional diversity while exploring some of its destinations.
