New Year's Eve 2024-2025 in Colombia

Colombia is an excellent New Year's Eve destination, not just thanks to the mellow weather. This South American country, washed by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations. Colombia's holiday season is a special time, and New Year's Eve is the final chord of the month-long festivities. Colombians also have several curious New Year traditions and superstitions to follow.

New Year's Eve Traditions

In Colombia, a popular New Year's Eve tradition for attracting luck is wearing yellow underwear, which is believed to bring prosperity in the coming year. Another Colombian custom is to fill pockets with lentils as a way to attract good fortune. Like many Spanish-speaking countries, Colombians observe the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight, known as "Las Uvas," each grape symbolizing luck for the months ahead. Another unique New Year ritual involves burning a doll, symbolizing the year's misfortunes and hardships. Many people stuff the doll with fireworks, sending it skyward at midnight to mark a fresh start.

In cities, New Year's is a time for family gatherings and lively parties. Colombians often host house parties where friends and relatives come together over buffet-style feasts of traditional Colombian dishes and drinks. At the same time, younger crowds often flock to street parties, nightclubs, and bars, with Cartagena hosting some of the largest celebrations.

In rural areas, communities gather for lively street-style festivities, often creating "El Año Viejo," a scarecrow representing the old year, filled with fireworks and set alight in a bonfire. The burning of El Año Viejo symbolizes the release of past hardships and a hopeful welcome to the year ahead.

Cartagena

The city on Colombia's Caribbean coast is a perfect party destination. With its beautiful colonial houses and luxurious hotels, Cartagena is ideal for ringing in the New Year in style. During the last night of the year, pop-up parties appear everywhere throughout the city. The atmosphere reminds a carnival, with music and dances on every corner.

New Year's Eve Fireworks in Cartagena

In Cartagena, the most popular spot to watch New Year's fireworks is Parque de la Marina, where locals often bring picnic blankets and settle in on the grass. Another excellent viewing point is the Muelle de los Pegasos pier, known for its iconic pegasus statues, benches, and local vendors. Both areas fill up quickly, so it's wise to arrive early. For the perfect shot, some of Cartagena's spectacular rooftop venues offer an unforgettable view, framing the fireworks' brilliant girandolas and chrysanthemums against the city's beautifully illuminated colonial cupolas.

Medellín

Medellín offers a vibrant yet less crowded alternative to the Caribbean Coast's New Year's festivities. Nestled in the mountains, Colombia's second-largest city boasts a dynamic food scene and numerous rooftop bars ideal for enjoying fireworks. The Provenza district in El Poblado is the heart of New Year's Eve celebrations, where streets transform into lively parties with live music, street performers, and an infectious festive spirit. Many nearby bars, clubs, and restaurants host special events, making Provenza a top destination for visitors.

The Alumbrados in Medellín

A cherished holiday tradition, the "Alumbrados" brings Medellín to life with spectacular Christmas light displays across the city. These beloved illuminations are a point of pride and one of the year's most anticipated events. Some of the most iconic displays are found around the Medellin River. At the same time, many neighborhoods join in, adorning homes and storefronts with festive lights that add to the city's holiday charm. To read more about the event, click here.

NYE in Bogota

Bogota, Colombia's capital, offers grand New Year's celebrations for every taste. From lively street parties to refined dinners at the city's top restaurants, Bogota has something for everyone seeking a vibrant urban experience.

One of the city's most popular events is the annual fireworks display at Plaza Bolívar, where thousands gather to enjoy a spectacular show illuminating the historic square and surrounding architecture. The festivities include live music, street performances, and food stalls serving delicious local dishes. Fireworks begin at midnight, but arriving early ensures a great view and lets you soak up the festive energy. Best of all, the event is free and open to everyone, allowing visitors to learn how it feels to celebrate the New Year in Columbia.