The 2026 Barranquilla Carnival is already shaping up to be one of Colombia's most anticipated celebrations. This festival, declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, promises an edition full of color, innovation, and tradition. In this article, we'll tell you about the dates, the main events, the must-see parades, and the new features that will electrify Barranquilla and the entire country.
When is the Barranquilla Carnival 2026?
The Barranquilla Carnival will be officially celebrated from Saturday, February 14 to Tuesday, February 17, 2026 , although the festivities begin weeks earlier with events such as the Reading of the Proclamation and the Coronation of the Carnival Kings.
These dates coincide with the traditional calendar preceding Ash Wednesday, keeping alive one of the most beloved customs of Colombians.
Main events of the Barranquilla Carnival 2026
The Carnival comprises more than 500 artistic and cultural events , including parades, concerts, and folk gatherings. These are the must-sees:
Reading of the Proclamation
It marks the official start of Carnival. The Carnival Queen proclaims the opening of the festivities with a speech full of energy and tradition. It takes place in Peace Square and attracts thousands of spectators.
Guacherna
One of the most anticipated events. This nighttime parade, full of lights, music, and dance troupes, pays homage to Esthercita Forero, the "Sweetheart of Barranquilla." It's the prelude to Carnival and takes place on the Friday before Carnival Saturday.
Battle of Flowers
The most emblematic parade, which kicks off Saturday's celebrations. Decorated floats, folk groups, and local queens travel along Vía 40 in a spectacle of color, dance, and joy.
Grand Parade of Tradition and Folklore
On Sunday, Via 40 is filled with troupes representing the cultural roots of the Colombian Caribbean: cumbias, garabatos, congos and mapalés.
Grand Fantasy Parade
On Monday, the parade highlights modern expressions and artistic fusions, with elaborate costumes and innovative choreography.
Burial of Joselito Carnaval
The festivities conclude on Tuesday with the symbolic farewell to Joselito, a character who embodies the spirit of Carnival. This event brings the celebrations to a close with humor, drama, and plenty of music.
Full program of Carnival 2026
| Date | Main event | Place |
|---|---|---|
| January 24, 2026 | Reading of the Proclamation | Peace Square |
| February 6, 2026 | Guacherna | Via 40 |
| February 14, 2026 | Battle of Flowers | Via 40 |
| February 15, 2026 | Grand Parade of Tradition and Folklore | Via 40 |
| February 16, 2026 | Grand Fantasy Parade | Via 40 |
| February 17, 2026 | Joselito's Burial | Streets of Barranquilla |
New features of the Barranquilla Carnival 2026
This year's Carnival will include several innovations:
Eco-friendly floats: made with recyclable materials to promote sustainability.
Digital scenarios: live broadcasts with augmented reality for those who cannot attend in person.
Inclusive Queens and Kings: the participation of LGBTIQ+, Afro-descendant and indigenous communities is strengthened.
Caribbean Flavor Gastronomic Festival: a new space dedicated to the flavors of the Atlantic and traditional cuisine.
Carnival green zone: a sustainable space with art and music outdoors.
Characters and queens of the 2026 Carnival
Each year, Carnival has protagonists who embody the joy of Barranquilla. For 2026, a Carnival Queen is expected who combines tradition with social leadership. In addition, King Momo will represent popular artists and bearers of folklore.
The queens of the neighborhoods will also have their own leading role with the community parades, which keep the popular essence of the event alive.
More traditional costumes and troupes
Carnival is a showcase of creativity. Among the most beloved characters are:
The Marimonda , a symbol of humor and mischief.
The Congo , which represents African strength.
The Garabato , a traditional dance that symbolizes the struggle between life and death.
La Negrita Puloy , an icon of Barranquilla's coquettishness.
The costumes are reinvented every year, but they retain the vibrant colors, shine, and joy that characterize the Colombian Caribbean.
Tourism and economy during Carnival
The Barranquilla Carnival generates millions of pesos annually in tourism, hotels, transportation, and restaurants. By 2026, more than 800,000 visitors , both domestic and international, are expected.
Local authorities have announced new tourist corridors, free transportation during the parades, and safe zones for visitors.
Tips for enjoying the Barranquilla Carnival 2026
Buy your tickets in advance.
Wear comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
Bring cash and basic documents.
Respect the local troupes and artists.
Participate in parallel cultural events such as dance workshops and exhibitions.
Why the Barranquilla Carnival remains a Colombian heritage
Beyond the parades and parties, the Barranquilla Carnival represents the diversity, creativity, and pride of the Colombian people . It is a tradition that unites generations, blends cultures, and demonstrates that in Colombia, joy always finds a way to express itself.