December is a month full of joy, celebrations, and traditions in Colombia. During this time, the country is dressed in lights, colors, and festivities that reflect the cultural diversity of its regions. From traditional Christmas lights to the holidays that mark the calendar, December is a special month for Colombians. Below, we will explore the December 2025 calendar in Colombia, highlighting the most important events, holidays, and traditions that make this month unique.
Holidays in December 2025
In December, Colombia celebrates several national holidays that are of great cultural and religious importance:
Monday, December 8: Day of the Immaculate Conception This holiday is one of the most important in the Catholic calendar in Colombia. Many families participate in special masses and processions in honor of the Virgin Mary. It is also common to light candles on the nights leading up to the feast, as part of the celebration known as the "Day of the Little Candles."
Thursday, December 25: Christmas Christmas is one of the most anticipated holidays in Colombia. On this day, families gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas dinners, gift exchanges, and novenas are common traditions during this time.
Highlighted events and traditions in December 2025
December in Colombia is not only marked by official holidays, but also by a variety of cultural events and traditions that vary from region to region. Below are some of the most notable ones:
1. Candle Day (December 7)
The night of December 7 is one of the most emblematic traditions in Colombia. Families light candles and lanterns in front of their houses to pay homage to the Virgin Mary. This custom, which marks the beginning of the Christmas festivities, is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the country. Cities such as Medellín, with its famous Christmas lights, and Villa de Leyva, with its Festival of Lights, are popular destinations during this date.
2. Novena of Christmas Carols (December 16-24)
The Novena de Aguinaldos is a religious tradition that takes place during the nine days leading up to Christmas. Families and communities gather to pray, sing Christmas carols, and share typical foods such as natilla and buñuelos. This event is an opportunity to strengthen family and community ties.
3. Cali Fair (December 25-30)
The Cali Fair is one of the most anticipated events of the year in the city of Cali. This festival celebrates Cali culture with parades, concerts, and sporting events. The Salsódromo, a parade of salsa dancers, is one of the main events of the fair, which attracts tourists from all over the world.
4. End of Year Celebrations (December 31)
The last day of the year is a special occasion in Colombia. Families gather to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new year with rituals and traditions such as eating 12 grapes at midnight, wearing yellow underwear and burning the "year old", a doll that symbolizes the bad times of the year that is ending.
The weather in December 2025
December marks the beginning of the dry season in much of Colombia, known as “verano” in the Andean regions. This makes it an ideal month to travel and enjoy the various outdoor activities. Temperatures vary by region:
Andean regions : Temperate climate with cool nights. Cities such as Bogotá have average temperatures of 14°C.
Caribbean Coast : Warm and humid climate, with average temperatures of 30°C.
Amazon and Orinoquia : Tropical climate with occasional rains.
December Gastronomy
Food plays a key role in December celebrations in Colombia. Some of the most popular dishes and drinks include:
Custard and buñuelos : These traditional sweets are essential at family gatherings and novenas.
Tamales : They vary by region, but are a common dish at Christmas dinners.
Brandy and rum : Popular drinks for toasting during celebrations.
Lechona : Especially popular in Tolima and Huila, it is a festive dish that is usually served at special events.
Recommended destinations in December 2025
December is a perfect month to explore Colombia and enjoy its landscapes, culture and traditions. Some recommended destinations include:
Medellín : Its Christmas lighting is one of the most spectacular in the world, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
Cartagena : Ideal for enjoying beaches and celebrations in a warm and festive atmosphere.
Villa de Leyva : Its Festival of Lights is a visual spectacle that you cannot miss.
San Andrés : Perfect for those looking to relax on paradisiacal beaches during the end-of-year holidays.
Tips to enjoy December 2025 in Colombia
Plan ahead : December is peak tourist season, so it's a good idea to book accommodation and transportation in advance.
Participate in the traditions : Experience Colombian culture by participating in events such as the Novena de Aguinaldos and the Día de las Velitas.
Explore different regions : Colombia offers a great diversity of experiences, from the tranquility of its beaches to the energy of its fairs and festivals.
Try the local cuisine : Don't miss the typical seasonal dishes, such as natilla, buñuelos and tamales.
December 2025 promises to be a month full of joy and celebration in Colombia. With its rich cultural diversity, unique traditions, and unforgettable events, this month offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy the best of the country. Whether you decide to take part in the religious festivities, explore the spectacular illuminations, or enjoy the gastronomy and music, December in Colombia is an experience that will remain etched in the memory of all who experience it.