Colombia traditions often referred to as the “land of a thousand rhythms,” are as diverse as the country’s landscapes and climates. Among the many different kinds of music, the cumbia is extremely popular. Every year, thousands upon thousands of people from all over the world travel to Colombia to experience the country’s distinct culture and traditions. Many features of Colombian customs and traditions are only found on Colombian soil, and the country’s culture is a fusion of many different traditions. Tourists and locals alike can take advantage of long weekends to visit various attractions and celebrate whichever saint or historical event is being celebrated. Here is a complete calendar of all Colombia traditions.
What are colombia traditions?
Colombia, a country full of life and chaos, is rich in unusual rituals and ancient superstitions. It is one of the South American countries with the widest range of cultural traditions, featuring a unique synthesis of African, European, and Indigenous behaviours. If you’re curious about Colombian culture, here are a few peculiar traditions you might encounter: yellow underwear for special events; a bonfire to mark the passing of the old year. With as many as 18 long weekends each year, Colombia has a remarkably high rate of Monday holidays.
Best Colombia traditions:
Following are different musical and other Colombian traditions.
Yellow briefs on New Year’s Eve:
Wearing yellow underpants on New Year’s Eve is a thing. You’ve probably heard about wearing red underwear on New Year’s Eve. Pants in a bright sunshine yellow colour are sold at stores and market stalls across Colombia in the days leading up to the New Year. Traditionally, Colombians have worn yellow underwear on New Year’s Eve to bring them luck in love and prosperity in the coming year. Put them on backwards before midnight and then the right way around at midnight.
Paseos de Olla or Pot Gathering:
Everyone in the family gets together for a picnic by the river where they live, and they gorge themselves on sancocho de Lena, a traditional meal in Colombia. This yearly custom is something that everyone in the community looks forward to. This mouthwatering stew can be made with beef, pork, or chicken, and it also includes plantain, potato, maize, and cassava, in addition to a large number of tomatoes.
Cali Fair, colombia traditions:
The Cali Fair is one of the most well-attended annual events in the country. However, it is surpassed in popularity by several other festivals, including The Legends Festival in Valledubpar and the Vallenato Legends Festival. In most households, the preparation of stews requires participation from all members of the home. In addition, Colombians participate in the ritual during the entire year to meet with relatives and friends of the family, recall important milestones, and celebrate triumphs together.
Celebration of a kind:
All partygoers know that Colombians know how to have a good time. Expect nearly as many events in a region known as the land of a thousand rhythms. This country hosts the world’s second-largest celebration every year: the Carnival. Barranquilla is home to this, and UNESCO has recognized it as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. This four-day festival began in the nineteenth century and is held the week before Holy Week. There are street dances and musical performances all over town, bringing the city to life.
Send the old year off in style:
Quemar el Ano Viejo, which translates to “Burning the Old Year Doll,” is another odd New Year’s tradition. However, this tradition uses a scarecrow in place of a doll. Colombians construct a life-size scarecrow or doll and dress it in outgrown clothes as a year-end tradition. They typically stuff it with straw, but occasionally they’ll throw in some fireworks for good measure. The doll was burned at midnight to destroy any negative energy from the prior year.
Ancient European paganism:
From the 16th of December until Christmas Eve, on the 24th of December, many people in Colombia participate in special prayers called “novenas. Colombia follows the same practice as Spain and the rest of South America, serving their main meal on Christmas Eve. The most well-liked foods are stuffed pork with rice, peas, and soups made from ham, turkey, or chicken. This ceremony may have roots in ancient European paganism, but its exact antiquity is unknown. It’s similar to a heated Ecuadorian ritual.
Colombians celebrate Christmas:
In Colombia, the Christmas season officially kicks off on the evening of the 7th of December and continues right up until Christmas Day. The holiday of Da de las Veritas, also known as the “Day of the tiny Candles,” is celebrated by illuminating one’s home with various candles, lights, and lanterns. Traditional celebrations of this occasion include a fireworks display. Then, many Colombians participate in a ritual called “novenas” that lasts until Christmas Eve.
Past disease treatments:
Although analgesics are readily available, many Colombians rely on time-tested “grandmother’s remedies.” Name a few examples: chamomile teas, which are helpful for those who have trouble sleeping; aloe vera shampoos, which are effective against dandruff; and bodied calendula shampoos, which are effective against scarring. One of the most well-known natural treatments with Colombian origins is Agauapanela. You can use this concentrated cane syrup to treat many health issues, including a cold, a sore throat, or even the blues.
The tradition of the Quinceanera:
The tradition of the Quinceanera has been observed for centuries. The festival was first celebrated in Mexico and has since spread to the rest of Latin America, including Colombia. Quinceanera celebrates a girl’s 15th birthday, the “Quince Anos” or “Quinces” birthday. This celebration marks the “official” beginning of her transition into full female garb, including makeup and high heels. A huge party is thrown in honour of the milestone, and cutting the Quinceaera cake is the party’s final act.
Conclusion:
All over Colombia, people gather to celebrate the country’s many annual festivals. Throughout history, the government has seen a fascinating cultural fusion of Indigenous, Spanish, and African peoples. It has led to numerous festivals that serve as powerful symbols of its citizens’ values, beliefs, and aspirations. The Barranquilla Carnival and the Medellin Festival of Flowers are two of the most well-known examples; both have been designated as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites.
FAQs:
What do you think are the most important aspects of Colombian culture?
Family is extremely valuable in Colombian society. Many Colombians consider the family to be the most important institution in society. Families are close and stay that way throughout life.
What makes Colombian culture stand out from others?
Colombian music is well-known for its eclectic mix of indigenous, African, and European rhythms and sounds.
What is the main tradition of Colombia traditions?
Barranquilla’s Carnival is South America’s second-biggest celebration. This trip will show you the beauty and diversity of the United States from north to south, so sit back and relax.