Main festivities of February in Colombia

Colombia, a land of diversity and cultural wealth, gives us a February full of festivities that reflect the vibrant identity of its regions. From the Caribbean coasts to the Andean mountains, this month is dressed in colors and joy to celebrate deep-rooted traditions and unique events.

Barranquilla Carnival: An Explosion of Joy and Tradition

The Barranquilla Carnival, recognized as one of the most important cultural events in Colombia, marks the beginning of February with an explosion of colors, music and traditions that capture the very essence of the country's cultural diversity. This festive event, declared a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO, transforms the streets of Barranquilla into a vibrant scene where the African, indigenous and European roots that have shaped Colombian identity intertwine.

For four days, the coastal city becomes a melting pot of artistic expressions ranging from infectious cumbia to energetic Mapalé. The troupes and parades are the heart of the Carnival, where groups of dancers and musicians display their talent with exquisitely elaborate costumes and choreographies full of energy. Each troupe is a window into the cultural richness of Colombia, showing the diversity of influences that are intertwined in this South American country.

Creativity overflows in the costumes, where participants immerse themselves in a sea of colors, feathers and glitter. From beauty queens to the little ones in the community, everyone contributes to the festive atmosphere with their imagination and dedication to tradition. The streets are filled with joy, laughter and a palpable sense of unity, where the community comes together to celebrate their cultural heritage and strengthen the ties that connect them.

The Barranquilla Carnival is not only a visual and auditory spectacle, but also an experience that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the richness of Colombian culture. Traditional food, craft markets and street artistic expressions complement the celebration, offering a comprehensive look at the life and history of the Caribbean region.

The itinerary consists of 4 official carnival days:

Carnival Saturday:

Battle of Flowers: This parade is one of the most emblematic events of the carnival. During the Battle of Flowers, magnificently decorated floats parade through the streets of Barranquilla. Participants throw flowers to the audience, creating a visual and participatory spectacle.

Carnival Sunday:

Great Parade of Tradition: This parade highlights the folkloric and traditional manifestations of the Colombian Caribbean region. Troupes, dances and typical costumes are the protagonists in this
event.

Carnival Monday:

Grand Parade of Comparsas Parade: This parade features a variety of troupes and creative costumes. Groups of dancers and musicians participate in a competition to highlight the cultural and artistic diversity of Barranquilla.

Tuesday of Carnival:

Death of Joselito Carnaval: The celebration reaches its climax with the "symbolic death" of Joselito Carnaval, a representative character of the festival. This event marks the end of the festivities and is considered a nostalgic moment that symbolizes the end of carnival joy.

Candlemas Day: Religious Tradition and Folklore in Pasto

In southwestern Colombia, the city of Pasto celebrates Candlemas Day on February 2. This festival combines religious elements with colorful folklore expressions. The procession of the Virgen de la Candelaria is the central event, attractive to both devotees and those seeking to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the region.

Elaborate costumes and traditional dances, such as the Black and White Carnival, bring life to the streets of Pasto. The fusion of the sacred and the profane creates a unique experience that reflects the diversity of Colombian traditions. Additionally, Candlemas Day highlights the importance of faith and devotion in the daily life of the community.

The fusion of religious and folkloric elements on Candlemas Day reflects the rich diversity of Colombian culture. Traditional dances, such as the San Juanito, the Carnavalito and the Guabina, are intertwined with religious devotion, creating a unique experience that highlights the duality of the sacred and the profane. The celebration becomes a testament to the community's ability to keep its roots alive, even in the midst of cultural and social evolution. In addition to public festivities, Candlemas Day in Pasto also offers the opportunity to participate in more intimate events, such as family and community celebrations. Culinary traditions, family prayers and the creation of altars dedicated to the Virgin are elements that contribute to strengthening the ties between generations and communities.

In February, the Colombian land becomes a scene of celebration, where music, dance, flowers and coffee come together to weave a living and vibrant story that lasts over time.