A Season of Lights, Traditions and Festive Flavours
Is it too early to talk about Christmas? In Colombia, the answer is a resounding no! And if you live in Germany, you might understand why. In both countries, the festive spirit often arrives well before December, bringing out the Christmas decorations, seasonal treats and first festive playlists while autumn is still in full swing.
But Christmas in Colombia has its own rhythm, shaped by glowing candlelight, lively family gatherings, traditional food and celebrations that last far beyond Christmas Eve. If you are planning to visit Colombia in December, here are some of the traditions that make this time of year so special.
Día de las Velitas – Colombia illuminated by candlelight
On December 7, Colombians celebrate Día de las Velitas, or the Day of the Little Candles. This beloved tradition marks the beginning of the Christmas season, as families and communities gather to light candles and lanterns in honour of the Immaculate Conception.
As evening falls, streets, balconies, parks and doorsteps glow with thousands of tiny lights. Many cities and towns add colourful decorations, festive events and, in some places, fireworks to the celebrations. The result is a warm, magical atmosphere that brings entire neighbourhoods together.
If there is one evening that signals Christmas has officially arrived in Colombia, this is it.
Novenas – nine nights of togetherness
From December 16 to 24, (catholic) Colombians celebrate the Novena de Aguinaldos, a nine-day tradition centred on prayer, music and spending time with loved ones. Each evening, families, friends and neighbours gather at a different home to recite prayers, sing Christmas carols and share food. The tradition commemorates the journey of Mary and Joseph as they prepared for the birth of Jesus.
But you do not need to be religious to appreciate the atmosphere. The novenas are also a wonderful excuse to bring people together, catch up with friends and enjoy festive treats. Expect plenty of singing, lively conversations and the occasional debate about whose house serves the best Christmas snacks!
Christmas Eve – a feast for the senses
In Colombia, December 24 is the main family celebration. Loved ones gather for a festive dinner, exchange presents and often stay up late enjoying each other’s company. Food takes centre stage, with regional variations and family recipes passed down through generations. Some of the most popular Christmas favourites include:
- Tamales: A savoury dish made with a seasoned corn-based dough, meat and other fillings, wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed.
- Lechona: A traditional roast pork dish, often stuffed with rice, peas and spices, particularly popular in central Colombia.
- Natilla: A creamy, sweet dessert made with milk, panela or sugar, and cinnamon.
- Buñuelos: Golden, round fried cheese dough balls that are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
These dishes are more than just festive food. They are part of the memories, family rituals and regional identities that make Colombian Christmas celebrations so meaningful. And fair warning: once you start sampling the buñuelos, stopping at just one can be surprisingly difficult!
Who Brings the Christmas Presents in Colombia?
Here is a small detail that might surprise you: traditionally, it is not Santa Claus who brings the presents in Colombia, but El Niño Dios — Baby Jesus.
Children often write their wish lists with him in mind, and gifts are commonly exchanged on Christmas Eve. Of course, traditions vary between families, and Santa Claus has also found his way into many Colombian celebrations.
So, if you are spending Christmas in Colombia, you may want to check who is in charge of your wish list before sending it off to the North Pole!
Experience Christmas in Colombia
Christmas in Colombia is about much more than decorations and presents. It is a season of togetherness, shared meals, music, candlelight and traditions that bring communities closer. From the glowing streets of Día de las Velitas to the warmth of a family gathering during the novenas, December offers a wonderful opportunity to experience another side of Colombian culture.
And if you are already thinking about Christmas in October, do not worry — you will fit right in.
Planning a trip to Colombia in December? Get in touch with KonTour Travel to explore the country’s cultural traditions, festive atmosphere and memorable experiences beyond the guidebook.