Colorful Festivals

Colombia's major festivals are rich in culture and full of rhythm, enjoyment, and color. The country has a plethora of fairs and festivals, which are held throughout the year and in all of the country's towns. Some Colombian festivals have a history dating back more than a century, making them famous tourist attractions.

The Manizales Fair welcomes the New Year and is held between January 5th and 11th. There are a variety of events available, both traditional and modern, ranging from bullfights to parades. The Black and White Carnival is one of Colombia's most popular celebrations and one of the most prominent festivals in the country. It all started in 1607 when African slaves from Antioch revolted against the authorities. This magnificent celebration is held each year between the 2nd and 7th of January and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Barranquilla Carnival, the world's second-largest carnival, is one of Colombia's most important festivals, only surpassed by the carnivals in Brazil. It starts every year on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday. For 2019, this will be from March 2nd to March 5th, when Colombians and millions of visitors will take to the streets to enjoy the festivities. The event is so significant that it has been designated as both a National Heritage and a Masterpiece of Human Oral Heritage.

Without a doubt, the Cali Fair is the event that brings the most visitors and tourists to this region. Since 1957, the fair has been held between the 25th and 30th of December. Bullfighting, the Crowning of the Beauty Queen from the Comunas (Cali's municipalities), the Streets of the Fair, and a major concert are among the most anticipated activities. When visiting Colombia, you will always find something to celebrate, which is why Colombians are said to flow.