Feel the Glow of Hope and Tradition on Colombia’s Unforgettable Día de las Velitas Festival of Lights: Know More About it

Published on December 7, 2025

If you’re planning to visit Colombia in December, there’s one magical event you absolutely cannot miss – Día de las Velitas, or Night of the Little Candles, celebrated on December 7th. This festival marks the official start of Christmas in Colombia, and it’s a night filled with beauty, tradition, and an unforgettable sense of unity. Imagine walking through streets glowing with thousands of flickering candles and lanterns, each light symbolising hope, faith, and celebration. But this isn’t just about lighting candles; it’s a deep-rooted tradition that blends faith, culture, family, and a sense of togetherness in one spectacular night. If you’re curious to know why this celebration is so special and why it’s becoming a major highlight for both locals and visitors, read on.

What is Día de las Velitas?

Día de las Velitas, which means Day of the Little Candles, is a vibrant celebration held every year on December 7th, the night before the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, a Catholic holiday celebrated globally. It is a religious and cultural event that marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Colombia. This night is not just about lighting candles, it’s about bringing light into the world, both literally and metaphorically. People across the country light small candles (velitas) and colourful lanterns (faroles), which are placed on windows, balconies, sidewalks, and streets. The entire country transforms into a beautiful sight, with thousands of tiny lights flickering in the night.

The Religious Significance Behind the Tradition

The origins of Día de las Velitas date back to December 8, 1854, when Pope Pius IX proclaimed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. This event marked an important moment in Catholic history, and the act of lighting candles was a way for the faithful to express their devotion and support for the Church’s proclamation. Over time, this simple act of lighting candles evolved into a national tradition in Colombia.

While the festival began as a religious celebration for Catholics, it has since become a cultural event that transcends religious boundaries. Today, people of all backgrounds and beliefs celebrate the event, making it a truly inclusive and unifying experience. Whether you’re religious or not, the sight of thousands of flickering candles lighting up the streets is a sight that touches everyone.

A Night of Lights: How People Celebrate

On the evening of December 7th, the entire country of Colombia lights up in unison. In every town and city, from the bustling streets of Bogotá to the quiet corners of rural villages, families and communities gather to light candles and lanterns. These are no ordinary candles; they are part of a long-standing tradition, and they create a festive atmosphere that sweeps across the country. The streets, homes, and public spaces are decorated with lights, and the flickering candles create a magical ambiance that is hard to describe with words alone.

People place their candles on windowsills, doorsteps, and balconies, while others create elaborate displays in their gardens and along sidewalks. In many towns, entire streets and neighbourhoods join together to create coordinated lighting displays, transforming their homes into works of art. Some people even take it further, constructing lanterns out of colourful paper and lighting them to add even more sparkle to the festivities.

This isn’t just a display of light; it’s a celebration of unity and togetherness. Families and friends gather around to light the candles, share meals, and spend time together. It’s a night when community spirit shines as brightly as the candles themselves.

The Symbolism of the Candles

The candles and lanterns are more than just beautiful decorations; they carry deep symbolism. In Colombia, these lights represent hope, faith, and purity. They are also seen as a tribute to the Virgin Mary, whose role in the Catholic faith is central to the holiday’s religious meaning. The candles themselves are often said to represent the light of Christ and the triumph of good over evil.

However, the meaning of the candles goes beyond religion. For many Colombians, the candles are a symbol of unity and community. The tradition brings people together, fostering a sense of connection and belonging that is felt across the entire nation. The event encourages everyone to come together, light their candles, and share in the joy of the season.

Regional Variations: How Different Regions Celebrate

Día de las Velitas is celebrated all over Colombia, but the way people celebrate can vary depending on where they are. In rural areas and the Andean region, the lighting of candles is often accompanied by bonfires. These bonfires are part of the traditional celebrations in the mountains and rural towns, where people use large fires to celebrate and stay warm on the chilly December nights. In these areas, the lighting of candles and bonfires is seen as a way of guiding the Virgin Mary on her way.

In big cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, the celebration is grand and spectacular. Streets are lined with thousands of candles and elaborate light displays, and the entire city is often illuminated. Some cities even host public events, including concerts, fireworks, and parades, to mark the occasion. In some places, the lighting of the candles is accompanied by cultural performances like dance, music, and even small street parties.

Why Día de las Velitas Is Special

Día de las Velitas isn’t just an event; it’s an emotional and spiritual experience that marks the beginning of Christmas in Colombia. The celebration of light reflects a sense of hope and faith, and the entire country comes together in a shared act of goodwill. The sight of thousands of candles flickering in the night, lighting up homes, streets, and cities, creates a unique atmosphere that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.

For tourists, this festival is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Imagine walking through the streets of a town or city that has been transformed into a glowing wonderland, where every corner is filled with the warmth of light and the joy of celebration. It’s an event that captures the essence of Colombian culture—vibrant, warm, and full of life.

Día de las Velitas also marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Colombia, and the festive atmosphere continues for several weeks. The celebration of Christmas in Colombia is unique and filled with tradition, from the Novenas (a nine-day prayer leading up to Christmas) to family gatherings and festive food. For many Colombians, Día de las Velitas is just the start of a joyful month of celebration, and it sets the tone for everything that follows.

A Celebration of Faith, Family, and Community

Día de las Velitas is more than just a holiday; it’s a time for families and communities to come together. Whether in small villages or large cities, people gather to share the experience of lighting their candles and spending time with loved ones. This is a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration. In a world where we are often caught up in the rush of modern life, Día de las Velitas reminds us of the importance of slowing down, connecting with those we love, and celebrating the beauty of simple traditions.

As you walk through a town or city lit up by candles, you’ll notice something truly special. The lights represent more than just a religious tribute; they are a beacon of hope, peace, and joy. The night is filled with warmth, and the streets are alive with laughter, music, and conversation. This is the spirit of Colombia—one of warmth, joy, and shared humanity.

A Tourist’s Guide to Día de las Velitas

If you’re planning to visit Colombia during this time, here’s what you can expect:

1. The Streets Will Be Beautifully Lit: No matter where you are, you’ll find streets lined with candles and lanterns. The entire country takes part in this event, and the lights create a stunning visual display.
2. There Will Be Community Gatherings: You’ll see people gathered in neighbourhoods, enjoying food, music, and company. It’s a great opportunity to witness the warmth and friendliness of Colombian culture.
3. Expect Public Events: In larger cities, expect public lighting ceremonies, fireworks, and concerts. This is a great time to experience the festive atmosphere that fills the air.
4. Be Part of a Shared Tradition: Whether you’re lighting a candle in a small town or attending a larger event in a big city, you’ll be part of a shared tradition that connects Colombians across the country.
5. Celebrate the Start of Christmas: Día de las Velitas is the beginning of the Christmas season in Colombia, so get ready for an entire month of festive celebrations, music, food, and family gatherings.

Día de las Velitas is not just a night of candles; it’s a celebration of light, love, and unity. It’s a night when the country comes together to honour the Virgin Mary, to celebrate faith, and to welcome the Christmas season. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this magical night will leave a lasting impression on your heart. From the flickering candles that light up the streets to the warmth of the community spirit, Día de las Velitas is truly a night to remember. It’s a night that proves how light, both literal and figurative, has the power to bring people together and make the world a brighter place.