{"id":42518,"date":"2024-12-15T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-12-15T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/how-do-colombians-celebrate-christmas\/"},"modified":"2025-05-29T11:46:51","modified_gmt":"2025-05-29T09:46:51","slug":"how-do-colombians-celebrate-christmas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/en\/how-do-colombians-celebrate-christmas\/","title":{"rendered":"How do Colombians celebrate Christmas?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">In Colombia, Christmas is much more than just an end-of-year party: it&#8217;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.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">From the <em>D\u00eda de las Velitas<\/em> (Day of the Candles), which officially launches the season, to the <em>Novena de Aguinaldos<\/em>, a series of collective prayers, Colombians cultivate a spirit of solidarity and celebration. Between traditional meals, hymns and gift exchanges. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/feliz-navidad-colombie-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Illustration Feliz Navidad, Christmas in Colombia\" class=\"wp-image-27886\" srcset=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/feliz-navidad-colombie-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/feliz-navidad-colombie-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/feliz-navidad-colombie-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/feliz-navidad-colombie-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/feliz-navidad-colombie-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/feliz-navidad-colombie-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/feliz-navidad-colombie.jpg 1680w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>The importance of the Catholic faith: a legacy of colonization<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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<em>(Ni\u00f1o Dios<\/em>). Although, as in Europe, Christmas has also become a commercial holiday.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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<em>(pesebres<\/em>) 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. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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 <em>Novena de Aguinaldos<\/em> and nativity scenes are examples of this spiritual connection.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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. <\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:2em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\" wp-block-spacer eplus-wrapper\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-background eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-9a73e6\" style=\"background-color:#da906b\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:30%\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background eplus-wrapper eplus-styles-uid-e43070 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#da906b\"><strong>LEARN MORE<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:70%\"><p class=\"has-background eplus-wrapper eplus-styles-uid-e43070 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#f9f3e5\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/histoire-de-la-colombie-un-voyage-a-travers-les-ages\/\">Read our full article on the history of Colombia!<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:2em\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\" wp-block-spacer eplus-wrapper\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/eglise-catholicisme-colombie-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Illustration Catholicism\" class=\"wp-image-27885\" srcset=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/eglise-catholicisme-colombie-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/eglise-catholicisme-colombie-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/eglise-catholicisme-colombie-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/eglise-catholicisme-colombie-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/eglise-catholicisme-colombie-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/eglise-catholicisme-colombie-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/eglise-catholicisme-colombie.jpg 1680w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Christmas preparations in Colombia<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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. <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Day of Candles<em>(D\u00eda de las Velitas<\/em>)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\"><em>El D\u00eda de las Velitas<\/em> (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. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">The day before, Colombians light candles and lanterns<em>(faroles<\/em>) to symbolize Mary&#8217;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. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to its religious aspect, <em>el<\/em> <em>D\u00eda de las Velitas<\/em> is a deeply social event. Families and neighbors gather, share meals and traditional drinks like<em>aguardiente<\/em>, and sing <em>villancicos<\/em> (Christmas carols), strengthening community ties. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">In major cities such as Medell\u00edn, Bogot\u00e1 and Cali, this day is marked by spectacular light shows, including the<em>Alumbrado Navide\u00f1o<\/em>, which attracts thousands of visitors. Beyond its religious dimension, <em>el<\/em> <em>D\u00eda de las Velitas<\/em> is a moment of conviviality and unity, heralding the start of Christmas celebrations and symbolizing light, hope and peace. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/dia-de-las-velitas-colombie-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Illustration Dia de las Velitas, Christmas in Colombia\" class=\"wp-image-27884\" srcset=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/dia-de-las-velitas-colombie-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/dia-de-las-velitas-colombie-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/dia-de-las-velitas-colombie-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/dia-de-las-velitas-colombie-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/dia-de-las-velitas-colombie-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/dia-de-las-velitas-colombie-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/dia-de-las-velitas-colombie.jpg 1680w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Decorations and illuminations<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">As in Canada and many European countries, the custom of Christmas decorations is also present in Colombia.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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 <em>\u00e1rboles de Navidad<\/em> (Christmas trees), which, beyond their decorative dimension, serve as a focal point for gatherings.  <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>The crib<em>(Pesebre<\/em>)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">The Christmas crib, known as <em>Pesebre<\/em> 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. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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 <em>Novena de Aguinaldos<\/em> on December 16, and culminates with the addition of the Jesus figurine on December 24, symbolizing his birth.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">Colombian nativity scenes often go beyond traditional representation. In some regions, <em>Pesebres<\/em> 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, <a href=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/pourquoi-le-cafe-colombien-est-il-le-meilleur-au-monde\/\">coffee<\/a> plantations or coastal villages. These adaptations bring the crib closer to the cultural and regional roots of Colombians.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/creche-noel-colombie-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Illustration Pesebre, Christmas crib in Colombia\" class=\"wp-image-27883\" srcset=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/creche-noel-colombie-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/creche-noel-colombie-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/creche-noel-colombie-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/creche-noel-colombie-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/creche-noel-colombie-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/creche-noel-colombie-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/creche-noel-colombie.jpg 1680w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>La Novena de Aguinaldos<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">The <em>Novena de Aguinaldos<\/em> 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&#8217;s a moment of communion between family (and friends, too!) and community, uniting faith, culture and conviviality. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">Every evening for nine days, families, friends and neighbors gather around the crib<em>(Pesebre<\/em>) to recite the <em>Novena<\/em> prayers. The ritual generally begins with opening prayers, followed by meditative passages recounting the Annunciation and preparations for Christ&#8217;s birth. Between each segment, participants sing <em>villancicos<\/em> (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.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">The <em>Novena de Aguinaldos<\/em> 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. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;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&#8217;s also an opportunity for them to learn about the Catholic faith and better understand the spiritual meaning of Christmas.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/novena-de-aguinaldos-noel-colombie-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Illustration Novena de aguinaldos, Christmas in Colombia\" class=\"wp-image-27889\" srcset=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/novena-de-aguinaldos-noel-colombie-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/novena-de-aguinaldos-noel-colombie-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/novena-de-aguinaldos-noel-colombie-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/novena-de-aguinaldos-noel-colombie-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/novena-de-aguinaldos-noel-colombie-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/novena-de-aguinaldos-noel-colombie-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/novena-de-aguinaldos-noel-colombie.jpg 1680w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Christmas Eve (December 24)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">December 24, called <em>Nochebuena<\/em> in Colombia, is the high point of Christmas celebrations. It&#8217;s a day full of activities, ending with festive and spiritual moments, marking the birth of Jesus in a warm, family atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Final preparations<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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&#8217;s also a good time to do some last-minute shopping in the bustling markets, where Christmas carols, known as <em>villancicos<\/em>, resound.  <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>A festive and traditional dinner<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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: <\/p>\n<ul class=\" wp-block-list eplus-wrapper eplus-styles-uid-6d423b\">\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Tamales:<\/strong> Corn dough stuffed with meat, vegetables and spices, cooked in banana leaves.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Natilla:<\/strong> A creamy dessert made with milk, panela (cane sugar) and cinnamon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Bu\u00f1uelos:<\/strong> Delicious fried cheese fritters, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Lechona:<\/strong> In some regions, a suckling pig stuffed with rice and vegetables can be the main course.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Prayer and song<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">For many, the evening begins with the final prayer of the <em>Novena de Aguinaldos<\/em>. This spiritual moment, accompanied by carols, is an opportunity to give thanks for the past year and to celebrate the imminent birth of Jesus. <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Exchanging gifts<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">Just after midnight, the presents are distributed. Unlike in other cultures, where Santa Claus brings the presents, in Colombia it&#8217;s traditionally <em>El Ni\u00f1o Dios<\/em> (the Christ Child) who brings them. Although this custom is evolving, it remains dear to many families.  <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Midnight Mass<em>(Misa de Gallo<\/em>)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">For believers, the midnight mass, known as <em>Misa de Gallo<\/em>, is a milestone. Churches are packed with the faithful to celebrate the birth of Jesus in an atmosphere of contemplation and joy. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/nochebuena-colombie-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Illustration Nochebuena, Christmas in Colombia\" class=\"wp-image-27888\" srcset=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/nochebuena-colombie-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/nochebuena-colombie-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/nochebuena-colombie-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/nochebuena-colombie-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/nochebuena-colombie-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/nochebuena-colombie-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/nochebuena-colombie.jpg 1680w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Christmas Day (December 25)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">In Colombia, December 25 is a day dedicated to relaxation, family celebration and extending the joy of <em>Nochebuena<\/em>. 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. <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>A peaceful morning<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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 <em>El Ni\u00f1o Dios<\/em> or, increasingly, Pap\u00e1 Noel (Santa Claus).  <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>A family day out<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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. <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Christmas dinner<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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: <\/p>\n<ul class=\" wp-block-list eplus-wrapper eplus-styles-uid-18df3d\">\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Leftovers from the previous day&#8217;s feast:<\/strong> Tamales, natilla, bu\u00f1uelos or lechona are often reheated and shared once more.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Light dishes:<\/strong> In some regions, lighter dishes such as fresh salads or tropical fruits are preferred, due to the warm climate.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Visits and thanks<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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. <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Local festivals and traditions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">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&#8217;s cultural mix and the diversity of its Christmas celebrations. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/jour-de-noel-colombie-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Illustration Christmas Day in Colombia\" class=\"wp-image-27887\" srcset=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/jour-de-noel-colombie-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/jour-de-noel-colombie-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/jour-de-noel-colombie-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/jour-de-noel-colombie-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/jour-de-noel-colombie-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/jour-de-noel-colombie-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/jour-de-noel-colombie.jpg 1680w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In Colombia, Christmas is much more than just an end-of-year party: it&#8217;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 D\u00eda de las Velitas (Day of the Candles), [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":37993,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"editor_plus_copied_stylings":"{}","footnotes":""},"categories":[236,241],"tags":[488,490],"class_list":["post-42518","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-culture-en-2","category-traditions-and-festivals","tag-culture-en","tag-traditions-en"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>[2026] How do Colombians celebrate Christmas? | Culture | Visit my Colombia<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Dive into the magic of Christmas in Colombia, with its twinkling lights, joyful carols and warm traditions that bring families and friends together to celebrate!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/visitmycolombia.com\/en\/how-do-colombians-celebrate-christmas\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"[2026] How do Colombians celebrate Christmas? 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