Festivals and Events in Cartagena Colombia

Local Festivals and Events in Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena, a vibrant coastal city in Colombia, is rich in culture and history. Throughout the year, it hosts several fascinating festivals and events that showcase its unique traditions and attractions. Here are some noteworthy local events you shouldn’t miss during your visit.

  1. Carnival de Barranquilla (February or March): Although this event takes place in the neighboring city of Barranquilla, it is worth mentioning due to its proximity to Cartagena and its significance as one of the biggest carnivals in the world. The week-long celebration includes parades, music, dance, and elaborate costumes inspired by African, indigenous, and European traditions.

  2. Festival Internacional de Música y Poesía (FIMPROCAR) (April): This international music and poetry festival brings together artists from Colombia and around the world to share their talents in various genres, including jazz, rock, salsa, and traditional Colombian music.

  3. Festival de Música y Artes del Caribe (July): This annual event highlights Caribbean music, dance, theater, and visual arts, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Cartagena and its surrounding regions. The festival takes place in various venues across the city, including the historic San Felipe de Barajas Castle.

  4. Fiestas Navideñas y Año Nuevo en Cartagena (December 24 – January 6): During Christmas and New Year’s, Cartagena comes alive with colorful decorations, live music, traditional dances, and delicious food. The highlight is the Rosario de la Candelaria procession on December 24, where locals carry candles and pray for the Virgin Mary’s protection throughout the year.

  5. Festival de los Faroles (January 16): Celebrated on the eve of the feast day of Saint Anthony the Abbot, this festival honors Cartagena’s patron saint with a procession through the streets of the historic district. Locals light candles and lanterns, called faroles, to guide Saint Anthony through the city.

  6. Festival de la Magicia (January or February): This event pays tribute to the magic realism literature style popularized by Colombian author Gabriel García Márquez, who spent part of his childhood in Cartagena. The festival features concerts, literary readings, art exhibitions, and discussions about magic realism’s influence on Colombian culture.