Top Cartagena de Indias Festivals and Events You Can’t Miss Nestled on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena de Indias is a city bursting with culture, history, and vibrant festivities. The city’s festivals and events offer an immersive experience into its rich traditions and lively spirit. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these celebrations are essential to understanding Cartagena’s unique charm. Here are the top festivals and events in Cartagena de Indias that you absolutely can’t miss.
Cartagena International Music Festival One of the most prestigious events in the city is the Cartagena International Music Festival. Held every January, this festival brings together world-renowned classical musicians and emerging talent. The festival’s concerts are set against the backdrop of Cartagena’s stunning colonial architecture, providing a magical atmosphere for music lovers.
Highlights of the Festival World-Class Performances: Enjoy performances by internationally acclaimed orchestras, soloists, and ensembles. Workshops and Masterclasses: Participate in workshops led by expert musicians and composers. Historic Venues: Concerts are held in historic venues like the Teatro Adolfo Mejía and various plazas within the walled city. Cartagena International Film Festival (FICCI) The Cartagena International Film Festival, or FICCI, is Latin America’s oldest film festival, established in 1960. It takes place annually in March and showcases a diverse range of films from Colombia and around the world.
What to Expect Film Screenings: Watch a variety of films, including features, documentaries, and shorts. Panels and Discussions: Engage in discussions with filmmakers, critics, and industry professionals. Awards Ceremony: Witness the recognition of outstanding films and filmmakers in multiple categories. Independence of Cartagena and National Beauty Pageant In November, Cartagena celebrates its Independence Day alongside the National Beauty Pageant (Reinado Nacional de Belleza). This month-long celebration commemorates Cartagena’s independence from Spain in 1811 and features the crowning of Miss Colombia.
Celebration Activities Parades and Street Parties: Experience colorful parades, lively street parties, and traditional dances. Beauty Pageant Events: Attend the pageant events, including the swimsuit competition, evening gown presentation, and the final coronation. Fireworks and Concerts: Enjoy nightly fireworks and concerts featuring popular Colombian artists. Hay Festival Cartagena The Hay Festival Cartagena is a celebration of literature, arts, and ideas, held every January. This festival brings together writers, thinkers, and artists from around the globe to discuss literature, politics, science, and more.
Festival Highlights Author Readings and Signings: Meet your favorite authors and get your books signed. Panel Discussions: Attend panels on various topics, from current affairs to literary trends. Workshops: Participate in creative writing and storytelling workshops. Holy Week (Semana Santa) Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a significant religious event in Cartagena, celebrated with deep reverence and devotion. This event takes place during the week leading up to Easter and includes a series of solemn processions and religious ceremonies.
Key Events Processions: Witness the solemn processions through the streets, featuring statues of saints and biblical scenes. Masses and Services: Attend special masses and religious services held in Cartagena’s beautiful churches. Traditional Foods: Sample traditional foods and sweets that are prepared specially for Holy Week. Caribbean Sea Music Festival (Festival de Música del Mar Caribe) The Caribbean Sea Music Festival celebrates the rich musical heritage of the Caribbean region. Held annually in August, this festival features a variety of musical genres, including reggae, salsa, and cumbia.
Festival Features Live Performances: Enjoy live performances by local and international artists. Dance Competitions: Watch or participate in dance competitions showcasing traditional Caribbean dances. Food and Craft Stalls: Explore stalls selling local crafts and delicious Caribbean cuisine. Independence of Cartagena Festival Every November 11th, Cartagena commemorates its independence from Spanish rule with a grand celebration known as the Independence of Cartagena Festival. This event is marked by a vibrant array of activities and is one of the most anticipated events in the city.
Festival Activities Historical Reenactments: Experience historical reenactments that tell the story of Cartagena’s fight for independence. Cultural Performances: Enjoy performances by folk dancers and musicians. Festive Parades: Watch parades featuring colorful costumes and floats. Festival of Lights (Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria) The Festival of Lights, or Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria, is a religious celebration held every February in honor of Cartagena’s patron saint, the Virgin of Candelaria.
Event Highlights Pilgrimages: Join the faithful in pilgrimages to the Convento de la Popa, located on a hill overlooking the city. Masses and Vigils: Participate in masses and candlelight vigils. Fireworks Display: Enjoy a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky. November Festivals November is a month of continuous festivities in Cartagena, starting with the All Saints’ Day celebrations and culminating in the Independence Day events. This period is filled with music, dance, and cultural activities.
Festive Highlights Street Carnivals: Participate in street carnivals that feature traditional music and dance. Cultural Exhibitions: Visit exhibitions showcasing Cartagena’s art, history, and traditions. Music Concerts: Attend concerts featuring both local and international artists.