This year, Colombia is expected to resume its most popular festivals and events after two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Each event will run with procedures and safety requirements in place, according to the Colombian government.
From the world-famous Barranquilla Carnival to the Medellín Flower Festival, this is good news for those who love to visit Colombia.
Here is a roundup of the festivities happening in Colombia for 2022. Keep in mind, things may change depending on the guidelines of the Ministry of Health and the National Government.
1. Barranquilla Carnival
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The largest party in Colombia will be held from February 26 to March 1. Although the pandemic has caused certain events to be postponed, the Carnival is expected to return.
The Carnival begins with the Battle of Flowers, a parade of decorated floats that is presided over by the Carnival Queen, chosen beforehand. Other outstanding events are Bogotá’s Comparsas Parade and the Festival of Orchestras.
2. Vallenato Legend Festival
Vallenato is one of the most popular music genres in Colombia. Before the pandemic, musicians of vallenato music— which includes merengue, puya, paseo, and son— have come together at the Vallenato Legend Festival, the greatest popular folk culture festival in Colombia.
The festival was created in 1968 and is held every year in late April in Valledupar.
3. Medellin Flower Festival
This is one of the most traditional festivals of Antioquia and Medellín. The Silleteros Parade is the highlight of the festival, but there are more events on the program‚ including the Cavalcade, the exhibition of Muleteers, and Mules and Fondas.
Traditionally, the Medellín Flower Festival is held in August. However, the dates are not confirmed yet for 2022.
4. Pacific Coast Folkloric Festival, Valle
This festival has been held since 1986, and it aims to highlight and remember the legacy of Afro-descendants in the area. It is celebrated in the city of Buenaventura.
During 5 days there are dances, parades and local foods and drinks, especially viche— a traditional liquor from the coast.
The end of the festival is marked by a beauty contest in which Ms. Pacific Coast is chosen.
Dates are yet to be confirmed.
5. Petronio Álvarez Pacific Music Festival, Cali
The Petronio Alvaréz fest is one of the most important festivals of Afro-culture in Latin America. In its 23 years of existence, it has positioned itself as a meeting space where Afro-Colombian heritage is on full display for six days.
Before the pandemic, nearly 60,000 people got to experience the music, food, traditional drinks and ancestral flavors belonging to communities from the Colombian pacific.
Dates are yet to be confirmed.
6. Aguinaldo Boyacense, Tunja
The Aguinaldo Boyacense held annually in the city of Tunja, Boyaca between December 16-22.
It was created in 1955 with the aim of bringing Christmas to the streets.
7. Cali Festival, Cali
Cali Festival is the most important event in Cali and takes place from December 25 to 30. Salsa is the protagonist, although other musical genres and cultural proposals are increasingly claiming their own space at the fair.
The most outstanding events of the Fair are the Salsódromo, which brings together the best salsa schools in the city, the multiple parades and the exhibitions of music lovers and salsa collectors.