Colombia, which is one of Latin America's most famous destinations, has a lot to offer. Despite being famous for its picturesque views and beautiful beaches, one of the reasons on why travelers would flock the country is because of its colorful festivals.

Colombians are known as the happiest people in the world; this being said, part of the country's beauty is their capacity to immerse travelers with their local culture through their festivals. Not only are they fond of throwing celebrations, they are also known for their strong cultural and religious beliefs.

Listed below are of the famous festival in Colombia that travelers must take note of:

Barranquilla Carnival

Dubbed as the most colorful festival in the world, Barranquilla festival is usually celebrated on a weekend before "Ash Wednesday." It is one of Latin America's biggest festivals following the famous Rio de Janiero Carnival in Brazil.

The Barranquilla Carnival is honored by UNESCO as a "World Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity." The 4-day celebration fills the streets of Colombia with colorful lanterns and flowers. Colombians would usually play Afro-Colombian music and dance along the tunes in the city's streets.

The carnival is in lieu of the catholic festivities which were bought by the Spaniards during the time of the colonization.


Ferias de Las Flores
The "City of Eternal Spring" would usually celebrate the Medellin Flower Festival from August 1 to 10. The residents would fill their balconies, gardens, terraces and patios with colorful flowers to welcome the beginning of their flower festival.

The entire festive would run for a month including the famous Silleteros parade, which features the beautiful flower arrangements done by the farmers and place their crafts in a silleta (a basket used as a backpack for carrying flowers).

The whole festival does not only focus on the beautiful flowers, but it also includes music, dancing and fireworks.


Ibero-American Theater Festival


The festival held in Bagota isn't celebrated yearly. It only occurs every two years during the month of April. The Ibero-American Theater Festival is one of the biggest cultural events in Latin America where in Colombians would celebrate poetry, art, music and theater.


In a span of 7 days, the entire city is turned into a Theater City that holds colorful parades and light shows. It features different performing arts including circus, music, puppetry, pantomime and various art forms. The festival does not only focus on exhibition as it also offers several workshops wherein enrolees will get a chance to learn from famous artists that excel in their various crafts.