December 25th in Colombia is one of the most anticipated and celebrated dates of the year. Beyond the exchange of gifts and Christmas decorations, this day holds profound religious, familial, and cultural significance. Every corner of the country celebrates this day with joy, faith, and unique traditions that reflect the Colombian spirit.
The meaning of December 25th in Colombia
December 25th commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ , a Christian celebration that unites millions of people across the country. From the early hours of the morning, Colombian families gather to share, pray, and give thanks for the blessings received throughout the year.
Although the festival has its religious roots, over time it has acquired a cultural nuance that combines Catholic customs with popular expressions such as music, fireworks and typical Christmas season dishes.
How is Christmas celebrated in Colombia?
In Colombia, Christmas is celebrated with enthusiasm from the beginning of December, when the Christmas lights are turned on and families begin preparing the novenas de aguinaldos , a tradition that strengthens family unity.
The novenas and the birth of the Child Jesus
Between December 16th and 24th , families gather each night to pray the novena, sing Christmas carols, and share fritters, custard, and empanadas. Christmas Eve, known as Nochebuena , is the most anticipated time, when children receive gifts from the Christ Child and adults celebrate with family dinners.
You can learn more about these customs in our article about Christmas in Colombia 2025: customs, novenas and unique traditions .
Popular traditions of December 25th in the Colombian regions
Colombia is a diverse country, and each region celebrates Christmas with its own unique touch. These are some of the most representative customs:
Andean Region: highlights include Christmas carols accompanied by guitar and tiple, early morning eucharists, and family gatherings with custard, tamales, and hot chocolate.
Caribbean Coast: The celebrations are joyful and boisterous, with tambora, gaita, and cumbia music. In cities like Cartagena and Barranquilla, the party goes on until dawn.
Pacific Region: Afro-descendant communities combine the Catholic faith with traditional cultural expressions, chigualo songs and prayers.
Amazon and Orinoco regions: celebrations blend with indigenous customs and respect for nature, highlighting traditional dances and local foods.
This variety makes Colombian Christmas one of the most colorful in the world.
Christmas cuisine in Colombia
The Christmas Eve table reflects the country's diverse cuisine. Common dishes include:
Custard and fritters , unmistakable symbols of the era.
Tolima-style roasted suckling pig or tamales , depending on the region.
Pork leg , chicken and rice or Russian salad , essential at Christmas dinner.
Aguapanela with cheese , a traditional drink to accompany the novenas.
You can read more about typical December foods in The most beautiful heritage towns to visit in December , which also mentions Christmas food fairs.
The family and spiritual value of December 25th
December 25th not only marks the birth of Jesus, but also represents a time for reflection, forgiveness, and family unity . Many people take advantage of this date to visit churches, participate in special masses, and spend time with loved ones.
Families often exchange gifts as a symbol of love and gratitude, and gather around Christmas dinner to share stories and good wishes for the coming year.
December 25th is a public holiday in Colombia
December 25th is an official holiday in Colombia , established by the national work calendar. It is a non-working day for most employees, although many sectors—such as tourism, health, and transportation—continue to provide essential services.
You can check all the holidays for next year in the 2026 work calendar in Colombia .
Religious and community celebrations
Churches across the country hold solemn masses in the early morning or at midday on December 25th. Many parishes also feature live nativity scenes, processions, or carol concerts.
In rural areas, neighbors gather to share food, exchange gifts, and organize traditional games such as secret Santa or Christmas bingo.
Activities and plans to enjoy on December 25th
While the day is mainly spent with family, there are also recommended activities to enjoy the Christmas spirit:
Visit the Christmas lights in Medellín, Bogotá, Cali or Bucaramanga.
Explore heritage towns like Villa de Leyva, Santa Fe de Antioquia or Barichara, where the streets are filled with lights and music.
Attend Christmas concerts or fairs.
Enjoy religious or ecological tourism in quiet destinations within the country.
Also check out our article on What to do during the end-of-year holidays in Colombia to plan a getaway during this time.
Christmas as Colombian cultural heritage
December 25th encapsulates the essence of Colombian culture: faith, joy, and unity. Although each family celebrates in its own way, the central message is the same: to share, to give thanks, and to keep hope alive.
In such a diverse country, this date serves as a bond that unites regions, generations, and beliefs, establishing itself as one of the most important celebrations on the Colombian calendar.