In Colombia, Christmas is much more than just an end-of-year party: it’s a joyous celebration, rich in tradition and shared moments. From the beginning of December, the streets are lit up with sparkling decorations, and families prepare for a period marked by spirituality and conviviality.
From the Día de las Velitas (Day of the Candles), which officially launches the season, to the Novena de Aguinaldos, a series of collective prayers, Colombians cultivate a spirit of solidarity and celebration. Between traditional meals, hymns and gift exchanges.
The importance of the Catholic faith: a legacy of colonization
The Catholic faith is deeply rooted in Colombian culture, and Christmas is one of its most vibrant expressions. This influence has its origins in Spanish colonization, which introduced Catholicism to Latin America and made it a pillar of society. In Colombia, where around 70% of the population identify themselves as Catholic, Christmas is associated with the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ(Niño Dios). Although, as in Europe, Christmas has also become a commercial holiday.
When the Spanish arrived in Colombia in the early 16th century, they brought with them their religion, culture and traditions. Catholicism was quickly imposed on the indigenous populations, often by force or through religious missions. The latter played a key role in the conversion of indigenous peoples, replacing their ancestral beliefs and practices with Christian rites.
The celebration of Christmas, as a symbol of the birth of Jesus Christ, was thus integrated into the religious calendar of local communities. Missionaries used nativity scenes(pesebres) and carols to teach the Christian faith, practices that have endured and been enriched over the centuries to become an essential part of Colombian culture.
Today, Colombia is one of the most Catholic countries in Latin America. Religion plays a central role in the lives of Colombians, both individually and collectively. Christmas, as a major religious celebration, reflects this importance. Traditions such as the Novena de Aguinaldos and nativity scenes are examples of this spiritual connection.
Catholicism is not limited to religious practice: it also influences family values, social interactions, and even laws and customs. Christmas thus becomes an occasion not only to celebrate faith, but also to strengthen family and community ties in a spirit of fraternity.
Thus, the importance of the Catholic faith in the celebration of Christmas in Colombia is both a reflection of its colonial history and the result of a cultural cross-fertilization that has enriched these traditions. Christmas thus becomes a moment when religion, history and cultural identity come together in a collective celebration of faith and sharing.
Christmas preparations in Colombia
Christmas preparations in Colombia begin well before the end of December, marking the start of a festive and spiritual period. From the beginning of December, the whole country is abuzz with excitement.
Day of Candles(Día de las Velitas)
El Día de las Velitas (Day of the Candles), celebrated on December 7, marks the official start of Christmas festivities in Colombia. This tradition, of religious origin, pays tribute to the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, celebrated on December 8.
The day before, Colombians light candles and lanterns(faroles) to symbolize Mary’s purity and grace. This simple but meaningful gesture is widespread, with millions of candles lighting up streets, houses and public squares, creating a magical atmosphere.
In addition to its religious aspect, el Día de las Velitas is a deeply social event. Families and neighbors gather, share meals and traditional drinks likeaguardiente, and sing villancicos (Christmas carols), strengthening community ties.
In major cities such as Medellín, Bogotá and Cali, this day is marked by spectacular light shows, including theAlumbrado Navideño, which attracts thousands of visitors. Beyond its religious dimension, el Día de las Velitas is a moment of conviviality and unity, heralding the start of Christmas celebrations and symbolizing light, hope and peace.
Decorations and illuminations
As in Canada and many European countries, the custom of Christmas decorations is also present in Colombia.
Some neighborhoods, homes and shopping malls are decorated with garlands of lights, Christmas trees adorned with baubles, tinsel and colorful ribbons. Windows are often decorated with candles, lanterns and small decorative objects. Families also put up árboles de Navidad (Christmas trees), which, beyond their decorative dimension, serve as a focal point for gatherings.
The crib(Pesebre)
The Christmas crib, known as Pesebre in Colombia, is an unmissable tradition that occupies a central place in homes and Christmas celebrations. More than a simple decoration, it represents a profound symbol of the Catholic faith, a tribute to the birth of Jesus, and a testimony to Colombian creativity and family values.
Introduced by Spanish missionaries during colonization, the nativity scene is a visual reminder of the Nativity. It features Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, the Magi, shepherds and a multitude of animals surrounding a modest stable. For Colombians, putting up the crib is an act of faith, but also a moment of family togetherness. This ritual, often accompanied by prayers and songs, generally begins at the start of the Novena de Aguinaldos on December 16, and culminates with the addition of the Jesus figurine on December 24, symbolizing his birth.
Colombian nativity scenes often go beyond traditional representation. In some regions, Pesebres include characters and settings inspired by everyday life in Colombia. For example, shepherds may wear ponchos or traditional hats, and landscapes may depict Andean mountains, coffee plantations or coastal villages. These adaptations bring the crib closer to the cultural and regional roots of Colombians.
La Novena de Aguinaldos
The Novena de Aguinaldos is one of the most emblematic and significant Christmas traditions in Colombia. Spanning nine days from December 16 to 24, this series of prayers and carols is much more than a religious act: it’s a moment of communion between family (and friends, too!) and community, uniting faith, culture and conviviality.
Every evening for nine days, families, friends and neighbors gather around the crib(Pesebre) to recite the Novena prayers. The ritual generally begins with opening prayers, followed by meditative passages recounting the Annunciation and preparations for Christ’s birth. Between each segment, participants sing villancicos (Christmas carols) with tambourines, adding a festive touch to this spiritual experience. The final night, December 24, is particularly special, marking the symbolic arrival of the Christ child in the crib.
The Novena de Aguinaldos is often seen as a valuable opportunity to strengthen social ties. Meetings are often held in different houses each evening, with each host welcoming participants with Christmas decorations and traditional snacks.
It’s also a way of passing on values and traditions to younger generations. Children often play an active role, reciting prayers or participating in carols. It’s also an opportunity for them to learn about the Catholic faith and better understand the spiritual meaning of Christmas.
Christmas Eve (December 24)
December 24, called Nochebuena in Colombia, is the high point of Christmas celebrations. It’s a day full of activities, ending with festive and spiritual moments, marking the birth of Jesus in a warm, family atmosphere.
Final preparations
Early in the morning, families are busy with the final preparations. Decorations are being finished, traditional dishes are being cooked, and children are eagerly awaiting the distribution of gifts. It’s also a good time to do some last-minute shopping in the bustling markets, where Christmas carols, known as villancicos, resound.
A festive and traditional dinner
The Christmas Eve meal is one of the most eagerly awaited occasions of the year. Families gather around a richly garnished table, featuring typical dishes:
- Tamales: Corn dough stuffed with meat, vegetables and spices, cooked in banana leaves.
- Natilla: A creamy dessert made with milk, panela (cane sugar) and cinnamon.
- Buñuelos: Delicious fried cheese fritters, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Lechona: In some regions, a suckling pig stuffed with rice and vegetables can be the main course.
Prayer and song
For many, the evening begins with the final prayer of the Novena de Aguinaldos. This spiritual moment, accompanied by carols, is an opportunity to give thanks for the past year and to celebrate the imminent birth of Jesus.
Exchanging gifts
Just after midnight, the presents are distributed. Unlike in other cultures, where Santa Claus brings the presents, in Colombia it’s traditionally El Niño Dios (the Christ Child) who brings them. Although this custom is evolving, it remains dear to many families.
Midnight Mass(Misa de Gallo)
For believers, the midnight mass, known as Misa de Gallo, is a milestone. Churches are packed with the faithful to celebrate the birth of Jesus in an atmosphere of contemplation and joy.
Christmas Eve in Colombia is therefore a perfect blend of religious traditions, culinary festivities and moments of family sharing, reflecting the human warmth and importance of faith in Colombian culture.
Christmas Day (December 25)
In Colombia, December 25 is a day dedicated to relaxation, family celebration and extending the joy of Nochebuena. While the hustle and bustle of the previous day gives way to a calmer atmosphere, the sense of sharing and gratitude remains at the heart of this special day.
A peaceful morning
Christmas morning usually begins in a serene atmosphere. After a festive evening that has often lasted well into the night, families enjoy a late wake-up call. Children, however, are often up early to discover their presents brought by El Niño Dios or, increasingly, Papá Noel (Santa Claus).
A family day out
December 25 is first and foremost a day for family gatherings. Colombian families get together to share a meal or simply enjoy some convivial activities.
Christmas dinner
Lunch or dinner on December 25 is often simpler than the day before, but just as warm and inviting. Traditional dishes remain on the menu:
- Leftovers from the previous day’s feast: Tamales, natilla, buñuelos or lechona are often reheated and shared once more.
- Light dishes: In some regions, lighter dishes such as fresh salads or tropical fruits are preferred, due to the warm climate.
Visits and thanks
For many families, Christmas is also a time to visit relatives and neighbors and share a moment of conviviality. Some Colombians take advantage of this day to do charitable work, such as distributing gifts or food to those in need, putting into practice the values of solidarity and generosity.
Local festivals and traditions
In some regions, such as the Caribbean coast, December 25 remains a lively occasion, with music, traditional dances and sometimes processions. These festivities reflect Colombia’s cultural mix and the diversity of its Christmas celebrations.
