If there is one thing about life in Colombia that is not only surprising to visitors but also induces some jealousy, it's the number of public holidays. Coming from the United States where paid days off number in the single digits, the 18 holidays (or "festivos" in Spanish) in Colombia can at first seem like a typo. But having lived here for so long, I can assure you that not only is it real, but they are some of the most anticipated dates on the calendar.
As a Catholic nation most, but not all, are based on religion, and each one carries cultural and historical significence, including two days celebrating independance!
- Año Nuevo (New Year’s Day): The party starts the night before with plenty of music and fireworks, and continues on January 1 with more parties and family gatherings.
- Día de los Reyes Magos (Epiphany): Also known as the Feast of the Three Kings, this holiday falls on January 6. It commemorates the biblical journey of the Magi to visit the infant Jesus.
- Día de San José (Saint Joseph’s Day): Observed on March 19, this holiday honors Saint Joseph, the father of Jesus. It’s a day to recognize fathers and other male figures in families.
- Jueves Santo (Maundy Thursday): Marked on the Thursday before Easter Sunday, Jueves Santo commemorates the Last Supper and Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet.
- Viernes Santo (Good Friday): The day of Jesus’ crucifixion, Viernes Santo is a time for reflection, religious processions, and church services.
- Primero de Mayo (Labour Day): May 1 honors the contributions of Colombian workers and celebrates their rights and the labor movement.
- Ascensión del Señor (Ascension Day): Takes place 39 days after Easter Sunday and commemorates Jesus’ ascension into heaven.
- Corpus Christi: Observed 60 days after Easter Sunday, Corpus Christi celebrates the Eucharist and the body of Christ.
- Sagrado Corazón (Sacred Heart): Held 68 days after Easter Sunday, this day focuses on devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
- San Pedro y San Pablo (Saint Peter and Saint Paul): On June 29, Colombians honor these apostles, who played significant roles in early Christianity.
- Declaración de la Independencia de Colombia (Declaration of Independence): This patriotic day falls on July 20 and marks Colombia’s independence from Spanish rule.
- Battle of Boyacá: Celebrated on August 7, this holiday commemorates a crucial victory in Colombia’s fight for independence.
- La Asunción (Assumption Day): On August 15, Catholics celebrate the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven.
- Día de la Raza (Columbus Day): October 12 recognizes cultural diversity and the encounter between European explorers and indigenous peoples.
- Día de los Santos (All Saints’ Day): November 1 is dedicated to honoring all saints, both known and unknown.
- Independencia de Cartagena (Independence of Cartagena): November 11 commemorates Cartagena’s independence from Spanish colonial rule.
- La Inmaculada Concepción (Immaculate Conception): Observed on December 8, this day celebrates the belief that Mary was conceived without original sin.
- Navidad (Christmas Day): December 25 is the official celebration of the birth of Jesus, but most of the festivities happen the night before. Check out Why December in Colombia is So Magical for more information about that.
As if that weren't enough, the city of Barranquilla has two additional holidays that are unique to their Carnival season.
Balloons in the colors of the Colombian flag
What You Really Need to Know
Now as an insider's guide, this blog isn't just about listing the dates, which you can find on many websites. What's also important are the cultural tips and tricks about holidays in Colombia, especially if you are traveling to Medellín during one. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Some holidays are moved to a Monday to create a "puente," or bridge, to give everyone a long weekend. Many people will use it as a chance to get out of town and go to their "finca", or property outside of the city, and you'll notice Medellín is often much quieter.
- When the city empties out, you'll find it much each to get around as there is less traffic and public transit is less crowded. It's a great opportunity to explore a new neighborhood, and you might even find lower rates in hotels and Airbnbs.
- But it also means a lot of businesses will be closed. It's recommend that you message a restaurant in advance either through WhatsApp or Instagram to see if they'll be open and if so, if they have special hours. Banks will be closed, but malls will be packed!
- Colombians are a joyeous society in general, but if you notice from the calendar, there are no holidays in February or September, and Colombians are not happy about it.
Colombian flag-themed decoration in the Manila area of Poblado
The Holidays Are a Great Time To Visit
Depending on what kind of experience you are looking for, timing a trip around a holiday can be a fun and enriching way to immerse yourself in the cultures and traditions of Colombia. For more tips and recommendations, download my The Insider's Guide to Visiting Medellín. It's a FREE 16-page look at planning a trip to the City of Eternal Spring, and the perfect inspiration for visiting the most magical destination in the world.
To download the guide and learn how I can help you have an authentic and unforgettable Medellín experience while saving time and money, click here:
If you plan to see more of Colombia during your trip, check out Tomplanmytrip. They have an impressive selection of itineraries for almost anywhere else you'd want to go in this beautiful country, and just like my own recommendations, everything has been curated and vetted so you'll only get the best providers and activities.
Thank you for reading, enter your email address below to be notified of future blogs, and I hope you enjoy the magic (and holidays) of Medellín!
- Jason ✨🇨🇴
Sources:
https://medellinguru.com
https://medellinliving.com
https://en.casacol.co
https://en.wikipedia.org
https://www.festivos.com.co
https://www.nationalholidayslist.com
https://mostholidays.com
https://publicholidays.co