A Guide To Visiting Carnival in Colombia in 2024

February 20, 2024 | by: Kuoda Authors

Colombia, a vibrant tapestry of culture and color, welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in the fervor of its annual Carnival celebration. Spanning from late February to early March, this cultural extravaganza is a testament to Colombia’s rich heritage, featuring vibrant parades, folkloric dances, and a riot of colorful costumes. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the dates, highlights, must-see events, local cuisine, street parties, traditional music, costume participation, safety tips, and the immersive cultural experience that await those seeking to revel in the festivities of the world’s second-largest carnival.

If you’ve always wanted to experience the rhythms, colors and culture of carnival for yourself, now is your chance. Read on to learn more about carnival in Colombia and send us a message today to get started.

Where to experience carnival:

In Colombia, various cities and regions host vibrant and unique carnival celebrations. Each location brings its own cultural flair, traditions, and festivities to the carnival experience. Here are some of the key places in Colombia where you can immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere of carnival:

• Barranquilla:
  • Overview: When we’re talking about carnival in Colombia, we’re almost always talking about Barranquilla. The city hosts one of the largest and most famous carnivals in Colombia, often referred to as the “Carnaval de Barranquilla.” It has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The carnival is a mix of African, Indigenous, and European cultural influences.
  • Highlights: The Battle of Flowers Parade, the Great Parade of Tradition, and the burial of “Joselito Carnaval” are some of the main events. The city comes alive with music, dance, colorful costumes, and vibrant street parties.
• Pasto:
  • Overview: Pasto, the capital of the Nariño department, is known for its unique carnival celebration called the “Carnaval de Negros y Blancos”. This carnival has deep indigenous roots and was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
  • Highlights: The carnival is famous for its elaborate face-painting rituals, where locals and visitors alike paint each other’s faces in various colors. The event includes parades, music, and traditional dances.
• Bogotá:
  • Overview: While Bogotá may not have a traditional carnival on the scale of Barranquilla or Pasto, it hosts the “Festival de Verano” (Summer Festival) during the same period. The festival includes various events, concerts, and cultural activities.
  • Highlights: The Bogotá Carnival Parade is a key event, featuring colorful floats, traditional dances, and performances. It’s a chance to experience carnival festivities in the country’s capital.

Late February to Early March

Colombia’s carnival season is a dynamic and ever-changing spectacle that typically takes place in the window from late February to early March. While the exact dates may vary each year, the spirit of the carnival remains constant – a celebration that transcends boundaries, inviting locals and visitors alike to partake in a collective expression of joy and cultural pride. To ensure accurate planning, it is advisable to check the official calendar for the specific dates of the carnival in 2024.

Highlights: Vibrant Parades, Folkloric Dances, and Colorful Costumes

The heartbeat of Colombia’s Carnival lies in its vibrant parades, where the streets come alive with a kaleidoscope of colors, lively music, and spirited dancing. Folkloric dances, deeply rooted in tradition, take center stage, showcasing the diverse cultural influences that shape Colombia. The sheer brilliance of the costumes worn by participants transforms the streets into a living canvas, reflecting the exuberance and creativity of the carnival.

Must-See: Battle of Flowers Parade

Among the myriad events that make up Barranquilla’s Carnival, the Battle of Flowers Parade stands out as a must-see spectacle. This grand procession is a celebration of local folklore, music, and traditional dance. Floats adorned with elaborate floral arrangements weave through the streets, accompanied by dancers and musicians creating an atmosphere of pure enchantment. The Battle of Flowers Parade is not merely a visual feast; it is a cultural journey, a dynamic expression of Colombia’s identity and artistic prowess.

Local Cuisine: Indulge in Regional Delicacies like Arepas and Seafood

No carnival celebration is complete without indulging in the tantalizing flavors of local cuisine. Colombia, with its diverse regions, offers a culinary experience that mirrors its cultural richness. During the carnival, immerse yourself in the aroma of sizzling arepas, a staple of Colombian street food. These cornbread delights come in various forms, adorned with cheese, ham, or avocado, providing a delicious and portable treat as you navigate the festivities. Additionally, coastal regions offer an array of delectable seafood dishes, from ceviche to grilled fish, providing a savory contrast to the carnival’s sweet rhythms.

Street Parties: Join the Lively Celebrations with Music and Dancing

As the sun sets, the streets of Colombia transform into dynamic dance floors, pulsating with the rhythm of music and the joyous energy of the carnival-goers. Street parties are the soul of the celebration, where strangers become dance partners, and the spirit of camaraderie prevails. Joining these lively street celebrations offers an immersive experience into the heart of Colombian culture. Feel the pulsating beats of traditional music as you sway and twirl, becoming a part of the living, breathing carnival tapestry.

Traditional Music: Immerse Yourself in the Rhythms of Cumbia and Vallenato

Colombia’s Carnival is synonymous with the enchanting beats of cumbia and vallenato, two music genres deeply ingrained in the country’s cultural fabric. Cumbia, with its African and indigenous roots, weaves a hypnotic tapestry of sound, inviting all to dance. Vallenato, characterized by lively accordion tunes and storytelling lyrics, transports listeners to the heart of Colombian folklore. Immerse yourself in these rhythms during the carnival, where the music becomes the pulse of the celebration, infusing every step with vitality and joy.

Costume Participation: Feel the Festive Spirit by Donning Traditional Carnival Attire

One of the most delightful aspects of Colombia’s Carnival is the opportunity for active participation. Feel the festive spirit by adorning yourself in traditional carnival attire. Whether it’s the vibrant attire of a cumbia dancer, complete with swirling skirts and intricate headpieces, or the elaborate costumes inspired by local folklore, joining in the costume revelry adds a layer of authenticity to your carnival experience. Express your creativity and become a living part of the dazzling mosaic that is Colombia’s Carnival.

Safety Tips

While the carnival is a time of jubilation, it is essential to prioritize safety to ensure a joyful and secure experience:

• Plan well in advance for your trip: Given the heightened demand during the carnival season, it’s important to secure accommodations, tours and travel arrangements well in advance to ensure a comfortable stay. Leave it all to Kuoda and let us take care of the details on planning your custom stay at Colombia’s vibrant carnival.
• Be Mindful of Belongings: In crowded areas, remain vigilant about your belongings to prevent theft. Consider using a secure bag or money belt for essential items.
• Stay Hydrated: The energetic nature of carnival celebrations can be physically demanding. Stay hydrated, particularly if you are actively participating in street parties and parades.
• Follow Local Advice: Pay attention to guidance provided by local authorities and event organizers. They often offer insights into the safest areas to enjoy the festivities and any specific precautions to take.
• Use Reliable Transportation: When moving between different carnival events or exploring various locations, opt for reliable transportation options. Arrange for trusted taxis or rideshare services to ensure safe travel.
• Respect Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions to ensure that your participation in the carnival is respectful and culturally sensitive.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and your country’s embassy or consulate, readily available in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Cultural Experience: Engage with Locals for an Authentic Celebration

Beyond the glittering façade of parades and parties, the true essence of Colombia’s Carnival lies in the connections formed with local communities. Take the opportunity to engage with locals, share in their joy, and participate in the rituals that make this celebration unique. Whether it’s learning a traditional dance, trying your hand at crafting carnival masks, or simply exchanging smiles with fellow revelers, these interactions contribute to an authentic and unforgettable cultural experience.

In the year 2024, Colombia extends an invitation to all seekers of joy, culture, and vibrant festivities to partake in its Carnival. From the rhythmic beats of the Battle of Flowers Parade to the tantalizing flavors of regional cuisine, the carnival is a celebration of life, community, and heritage. As you dance through the streets adorned in traditional attire, remember to prioritize safety and embrace the cultural experience that makes Colombia’s Carnival not just an event but a journey into the soul of a nation. In the heart of the festivities, let the spirit of the world’s second-largest carnival carry you into a world of color, rhythm, and jubilation.

Embarking on a journey through Colombia during its vibrant carnival season is a cultural adventure that promises to be the highlight of any traveler’s itinerary.Carnival is one of the largest and most exuberant celebrations in the country, beckons visitors to join in the rhythmic dance, colorful parades, and the spirited atmosphere of this grand event.

Immerse yourself in the Battle of Flowers Parade, where traditional dances, elaborate floats, and lively music showcase the rich cultural tapestry of Colombia. From the captivating rhythms of cumbia to the vibrant costumes adorning the streets, Carnival in Colombia is a celebration of life and cultural diversity—a must-see spectacle that beautifully complements the broader exploration of Colombia’s history, landscapes, and traditions. Let us plan your Colombia itinerary and take care of all of the details. Get in touch with Kuoda today to get started.