The Day of Candles, or “Día de las Velitas” is a cherished Colombian tradition deeply rooted in the Catholic Church, celebrating faith and the spirit of Christmas. Each December 7, Colombians light millions of little candles, transforming towns and cities into radiant displays of light. This beautiful celebration honors the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. For Catholics worldwide, this date commemorates Mary’s divine selection—foretold by the Archangel Gabriel even before her birth—as the mother of Jesus.
On this night, often considered the official start of the Christmas season, colorful candles and lanterns illuminate the streets, creating a magical atmosphere. The celebration also highlights Colombia’s rich gastronomic, cultural, and family traditions, giving the occasion warmth and joy under the enchanting glow of countless little lights.
History of Día de las Velitas on December 7
Día de las Velitas tradition, historically born with the proclamation of the Catholic dogma of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, proclaimed on December 8, 1854, by Pope Pius IX in the Bull (known as a papal document) Ineffabilis Deus on December 8, 1854, declaring that Mary was conceived without original sin.
On the day the decision was made, believers worldwide lit candles to commemorate the moment, and this tradition of illuminating the night in December has continued since then. In Colombia, a predominantly Catholic country, the custom of lighting candles on the night of December 7 was established to honor this dogma on the eve of its liturgical celebration. Colombian families gather to light at least a dozen small colored candles and lanterns, transforming the streets into a beautiful, luminous spectacle.
The practice of using white and blue flags—though this tradition has faded over time—dates back to colonial times and represents a greeting to the Virgin Mary. These colors are those typically worn by the Virgin Mary in official representations of the Church.
Since then, with the globalization of this celebration and with the freedom of worship promulgated by the Colombian Government in the 1991 Constitution, lighting candles the night before December 8 became a community event, adopted by people of different beliefs as an occasion to celebrate unity, hope and faith, through a visual spectacle that delights locals and strangers, where children and adults gather with their families, around gastronomic and cultural traditions that make this date a day not to be missed in Colombia, especially since the following day is a holiday, one of annual public holidays in Colombia.
Also, in some locations in Colombia, the lighting of candles happens after midnight. For example, in the Caribbean region of Colombia including Cartagena, Barranquilla and Santa Marta, the lighting of candles takes place in the early hours of December 8, instead of the night before.
How is Día de las Velitas celebrated?
Though it originated as a manifestation of religious faith, the Day of the Candles has transformed into a vibrant cultural celebration that fosters unity, solidarity, and hope. In recent years, this event has captured international attention, evolving into a powerful symbol of national pride and a magnet for tourists. Each region of Colombia enhances the festivities with its distinct charm, ensuring that this occasion is genuinely one-of-a-kind across the nation. Some of the most notable traditions include:
Lighting of little candles and lanterns
The streets, windows, and gardens are aglow with candles and lanterns, symbolizing light and hope. Many lanterns become artistic displays showcasing community creativity. Gather with friends and family to purchase small candles for 10,000 COP (3 USD). Enjoy a magical night with lanterns that protect the candles from wind while enhancing the visual celebration or you can also create your own handcrafted lanterns. Here are some ideas to consider:
Lanterns with paddle sticks
Create your lanterns using paddle sticks by cutting them to your desired size and gluing them with wood glue to form a 3D square structure. Cover the frame with cellophane in your favorite color. Inside, place a small base with a metal ring to hold the candle securely.
Lanterns made with paper bags and sand
Small paper bags filled with sand can be transformed into simple yet beautiful lanterns. The sand securely holds the candles in place, ensuring they remain upright and steady. Arrange the bags in an eye-catching sequence to enhance the decorative effect.
Prayers and Thanksgiving
For many families, Día de las Velitas serves as a time for reflection and connection, where they express gratitude and share future wishes. A popular way to enhance this ritual is with personalized candles, which can be customized with names of loved ones or with your dreams and goals. Lighting a candle for each person or dream becomes a meaningful tribute that conveys gratitude while also seeking blessings for the ones you love or for your goals.
Traditional Cuisine
Another way to celebrate Día de las Velitas is by enjoying traditional Colombian cuisine. This festive occasion features December’s quintessential foods like buñuelos, natilla, grilled meats, lechona, and tamales, bringing families together around the table. Gathering in the patio, garden, or balcony to grill or prepare traditional dishes fosters community bonds. For dessert, it’s a must to enjoy festive treats such as natilla, buñuelos, and rice pudding.
Local Festivities
Another way to celebrate Día de las Velitas is to move to key points in the city where you live, where, due to government initiatives, large displays of a festive atmosphere take place, filled with lights, commerce, and music that brings together people from all corners to light their candles in those locations.
If you’re an expat in the Coffee Triangle, don’t miss Quimbaya, known as “The Municipality of Light.” The Festival of Candles and Lanterns takes place on December 7 and 8, transforming the town with stunning designs and decorations. This unique spectacle in Quindío, just 40 minutes from Armenia, blends light, creativity, and tradition.
This particular year, you will find more than 100 illuminated blocks thanks to the creativity and efforts of over 4,000 families who design and create unique lanterns. Each street and corner becomes a stage where visitors can enjoy a true visual spectacle, accompanied by the warmth and hospitality of its inhabitants.
What can I do in Medellín?
If you’re asking where to see día de las Velitas in Medellin, exploring the various neighborhoods is a delightful opportunity to witness the magic and joy of the celebrations. Each family has its own unique way of honoring this night of candles, which can include lanterns, candles placed in sandbags, or the iconic wooden boards filled with candles that illuminate their homes. If you enjoy this festive atmosphere, consider taking a tour to visit the following locations:
Each of the best pueblos near Medellín also celebrates this tradition of lighting candles on December 7. But since it’s a holiday, it’s not the best time to visit pueblos, as they will be packed with people.
Visit these neighborhoods cautiously, always stay informed about risk areas, and avoid excesses to ensure your experience is always the best, while having comprehensive coverage from the best health insurance policy for foreigners in Colombia.
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What other places in Colombia are emblematic of Día de las Velitas?
If you are looking for a place where the magic of candles blends with cultural charm, you cannot miss:
Bogotá
The capital has turned its streets into a festive stage for Christmas shows, including concerts and cultural displays. In Bolivar Square, visitors come together with candles and enjoy a stunning fireworks display. Meanwhile, the Colpatria Tower lights up to announce the arrival of Christmas in the city.
Cali
In Jardines del Recuerdo Cemetery, families in Cali light candles to honor their loved ones in an emotional tribute. Key areas like Cayzedo Square, Colombia Avenue, the Cali River Boulevard, and Longitudinal Park are illuminated with lights during this special day that you can’t miss.
Villa de Leyva
In this town of Boyacá, the main square glows with lanterns and candles for Día de las Velitas. Cobblestone streets and white facades are illuminated as visitors enjoy cultural performances and Christmas choirs, creating a perfect family-friendly atmosphere.
Salamina
In Caldas, the Night of Fire is a significant cultural event rooted in the late nineteenth century, initiated by José Joaquín Barco Ángel. Residents light a candle for each sin, illuminating the town and creating a lasting tradition that honors the Virgin Mary.
Nobsa
In Nobsa, Boyacá, Día de las Velitas is a magical night of light and tradition in the heart of the Andes. The town glows with thousands of candles and lanterns in windows and streets, while visitors enjoy Christmas treats like buñuelos and natilla.
Research the local expat communities — Facebook is a good place to find new friends to celebrate Día de las Velitas. Most of the cities in Colombia have expat groups on Facebook.
In addition, the larger cities in Colombia like Bogotá and Medellín are active expat communities with plenty of holiday events.
What else to do in Medellin in December?
Many cities are waiting to begin Christmas activities, one of which is the capital of Antioquia; Medellín expects to welcome thousands of visitors with the celebration of the “Medellín Te Quiere Christmas Festival,” which will start with the traditional lighting designed to be recognized by the Mayor’s Office as “The Largest Nativity Scene in the World,” taking place from November 29 to December 15. You can download all the programming for this Medellín Te Quiere Christmas Festival by clicking here.
According to the administration, the event will feature more than 70 free activities organized by the district. Among the main attractions are:
Parade of Myths and Legends
The Parade of Myths and Legends is a tradition that ignites the magic of Christmas. This unique event was born in the city to keep the richness of Antioquian oral tradition alive and open the doors to artistic proposals from all over the country, which also honor the memory of their territories through incredible performances filled with creativity, innovation, and local talent.
This year, the parade will be on December 8 at 7:00 PM, and its route will go through Avenida La Playa, La Oriental, San Juan, and Parque de las Luces.
Christmas Hallways
Various city points will feature a large Christmas display, with itinerant artistic groups: parades, chirimías, and actors. These locations in the city are the River Corridor and Parques del Río, Corridor between Carabobo and Botero Square, and La Playa Corridor.
Christmas Squares
The Christmas squares will be large platforms and stages distributed in various areas of the city, offering a cultural, artistic, musical, gastronomic, and festive agenda suitable for all ages, aimed at the enjoyment of locals and foreigners who wish to experience the magic of Christmas surrounded by Antioquian traditions.
From December 1 to 7, the Christmas Plaza will be located in Miraflores. From December 7 to 11, it will be in North Park. From December 12 to 17, it will be in Ciudad del Río. From December 18 to 22, it will be at Juan Pablo II Airpark. During the week, the schedule will start at 5 PM, and on weekends, at 2 PM. (quote widget)
Illuminated Parks
Get ready to see some of the most iconic parks in the city extraordinarily decorated for everyone’s delight, offering a beautiful and local experience around great holiday, artistic, and commercial displays.
Christmas Cultural Park and others
Five nights from December 18th to 22nd with an artistic and cultural stage to enjoy Christmas music, festive, vallenato, popular, salsa, and tropical, at Parque de los Pies Descalzos, starting at 7:00 p.m. and until 12:00 a.m.
Similarly, there will be a full agenda of events, including the Street Artists Festival (an opportunity to discover local talent), the Strings and Accordions Festival (a tribute to popular music that is traditional and a vibrant reflection of Paisa culture), Sanalejo artisan markets, among other private events that will enrich the Christmas celebration in the city.
Remember you can download all the programming, details and location for this Medellín Te Quiere Christmas Festival by clicking here.
Security tips to be safe during Christmas in Medellin
Medellin is a beautiful city with a rich culture and diverse landscape to explore and when you choose it as your next destination, it is essential to be aware of many safety and behavior facts.
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While visiting or living in Colombia, it’s always better to be prepared for emergencies and stay safe with your loved ones. That’s why we’ve created an emergency guide with all the essential numbers you might need to call in an emergency.
The FREE Colombia Emergency Directory guide includes:
- Emergency Telephone Directory
- Hospitals in Medellin / Police Stations in Medellin
- Hospitals in Bogotá / Police Stations in Bogotá
- Hospitals in Cali / Police Stations in Cali
- Hospitals in Barranquilla / Police Stations in Barranquilla
Find out your embassy contact information
Knowing your embassy’s location and contact information is essential for a foreigner living or traveling in Colombia. Embassies provide various services, such as consular assistance and emergency services, to their citizens. In an emergency, your embassy can provide you with important information and support, including legal aid, medical care, and help replacing lost or stolen passports. You can find any Embassy located in Colombia through the Official Directory of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps accredited in Colombia.
Also, if you’re from the United States, we made a Safety Guide for US Citizens in Colombia that provides emergency contact information for Americans visiting the country. The FREE safety guide exclusive for Americans includes:
- U.S Embassy contact information
- US Embassy Online Service Office
- How to report a death or an arrest
- Obtain help if you’re a victim of a crime or gender violence
- Get financial help, legal advice, or health assistance
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Medellin Guru's comprehensive Colombian culture series
In Medellin Guru, we love Colombia, and we usually write many blogs about Colombian culture, places to visit, and other tips for all expats to have a reliable guide and valuable and relevant information about Colombia. Read our blogs about Colombian Culture here:
- Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia: Top Things to Do
- Top Things to Do in Medellín and Nearby: Top Tourist Attractions
- How to be an Expat in Colombia: 12 Tips to be a Successful Expat
- Top Things to Do in Cali and Nearby: Top Tourist Attractions
- Celebrating July 20th: Colombia Independence Day
- Norte de Santander: 5 Escapes for a Weekend Adventure
- Unlock Ipiales in 24 Hours: Your Essential Adventure Blueprint!
- Pasto: Discover the wonders of the Surprise City
- Top Popular Colombian Drinks to Try When You Visit Colombia
- Villa de Leyva: A Colonial Gem in the Colombian Andes
- Traditional Colombian Food Dishes You Must Try in Colombia
- Medellin Guru Launch 2023: Gentrification, Tourism and Investment
- Popular Colombian Desserts You Must Try While in Colombia
- Exotic Tropical Fruits of Colombia a Fruit Lovers Paradise
- Popular Colombian Soups to Try When You Visit Colombia
- Día de las Velitas: Day of Candles Tradition in Colombia on December 7
- Things in Colombia That May Be Strange for Foreigners
- Things Colombians Do That Foreigners May Find Weird
- Popayán: A Well-Preserved Colonial Gem in Colombia Worth Visiting
- Tejo: A Colombian Game That Rewards You for Explosions
Other things to see and do in Colombia
- Caño Cristales – the most beautiful river in Colombia, which has also been called the most beautiful river in the world by some people.
- Carnival in Barranquilla – the second largest carnival in the world.
- Cartagena – Oozing history, romance and sun-drenched beaches, the allure of historical Cartagena is hard to resist.
- Ciudad Perdida – the site of an ancient city in Colombia that is older than Machu Picchu in Peru.
- Colombia’s Pacific coast – often overlooked by tourists visiting Colombia but offering untamed nature and undiscovered beauty that is off the beaten path for most foreign tourists.
- Desierto de la Tatacoa – the second largest arid zone in Colombia is Tatacoa Desert, which has surreal desert landscapes and some of the best stargazing in Colombia.
- Guatapé – a picturesque pueblo near Medellín known for its huge rock and lake. And it’s likely the most visited pueblo in Colombia by foreigners.
- La Guajira Peninsula – one of the most visually stunning places in South America, which is located on the northern tip of Colombia where the desert meets the sea.
- Las Lajas Sanctuary – the most beautiful church in Colombia, which has also been called the most beautiful church in the world.
- Medellín’s Christmas lights – Medellín’s annual world-class Christmas lights known as Alumbrados Navideños.
- Feria de Las Flores Medellin – Medellín’s world-famous flower festival each year.
- Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados – a popular national park in Colombia located in the heart of the Colombian coffee region.
- Parque Tayrona – known for its beautiful beaches and the world’s highest coastal mountain range.
- Popayán – a colonial gem in Colombia best known for its white buildings and churches, it’s a city off the beaten path for foreign tourists but is definitely worth visiting.
- Rio Claro Nature Reserve – located about three hours from Medellín, Rio Claro is the perfect place to unplug from hectic daily life and enjoy a picturesque crystal-clear river, canyon and tropical rainforest.
- Salento and the Cocora Valley – Salento is a picturesque pueblo in Colombia’s coffee region and the nearby Cocora Valley is one of the most striking landscapes found in Colombia.
- San Agustín Archaeological Park – the largest group of pre-Columbian monuments and megalithic statues in South America and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- San Andrés – Colombia’s Caribbean island which is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve featuring many beaches, islets and coral reefs that are filled with flora and fauna.
- San Gil – Colombia’s adventure capital that is full of things to do including white water rafting, paragliding, caving, rappelling, hiking and much more.
- San Jose del Guaviare – a hidden gem and eco-tourism location off the beaten path and offering wildlife watching, jungle trekking and delving into Colombia’s prehistoric past.
The Bottom Line: Día de las Velitas: Day of Candles Tradition in Colombia on December 7
Día de las Velitas celebrated every December 7 in Colombia, is a vibrant tradition that marks the beginning of Christmas. Originating from the Catholic celebration of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, it has evolved into a national cultural event. Colombians light millions of candles and lanterns, turning towns into dazzling light displays while also enjoying family gatherings, traditional foods, and cultural activities. This festive occasion promotes unity, hope, and community spirit and has become a popular event for locals and tourists, showcasing Colombia’s unique Christmas customs and traditions.