Cartagena Colombia events are a testament to how this vibrant city knows how to celebrate, offering a wide array of cultural and social experiences throughout the year. From dazzling festivals and music concerts to art exhibitions and culinary fairs, there’s always something exciting happening. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to experience the magic again, you’ll never run out of things to do in Cartagena. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the must-attend events that showcase the city’s rich heritage and dynamic atmosphere.
October festival 2024
Festival del Patacon
Join us for a mouthwatering celebration of one of the coast’s most beloved dishes—Patacón Pisado! In collaboration with some of the best chef influencers in the city, Edd Cabarcas, this festival will showcase the many ways to enjoy patacón—topped with cheese, sausage, meat, and more. It’s a delicious journey through coastal flavors that you simply CANNOT MISS if you’re in Cartagena.
📍 Place: october 11-13
📅 Date: the Camellón de los Mártires
Palenque Drum Festival: Celebrate Culture and Rhythm! 🎶
Did you know? Every year, the vibrant Palenque Drum Festival is held in Palenque, the first free African town in the Americas. This celebration promotes the town’s rich culture through educational workshops and stunning performances by world-class local artists. As one of the best music festivals in Colombia, it opens its doors to celebrate the Day of the Race, offering a lively fusion of music, art, culture, and education. With a rich agenda of activities, you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant Palenque culture while enjoying traditional rum along this festive journey.
📅 Festival 2024: October 11-14
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable celebration of rhythm and heritage!
November in Cartagena is Independence Day Celebrations
One of the most thrilling Cartagena Colombia events is the city’s Independence Day Celebrations in November. These celebrations commemorate Cartagena’s fight for independence from Spain in 1811 and are filled with pride, history, and excitement. The city comes alive with parades, street parties, and cultural performances that bring the community together in a lively display of local culture.
The highlight is undoubtedly the Independence Parade, where colorful floats, traditional dancers, and musicians fill the streets, creating an electric atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience Cartagena’s deep-rooted history while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of its people.
19th Anual Cartagena Music Festival
From January 4-12, 2025, Cartagena will come alive with the sounds of world-class music at the 19th Annual Cartagena Music Festival. One of the most anticipated Cartagena Colombia events is the Cartagena International Music Festival, a celebration of classical music that brings together world-renowned musicians and orchestras. Held annually in January, this festival transforms the city into a cultural hub where history and music converge. Set against the backdrop of Cartagena’s stunning colonial architecture, performances take place in grand venues like the Teatro Adolfo Mejía and open-air plazas throughout the city.
What sets this event apart is its ability to combine world-class music with the intimate charm of Cartagena, offering an experience unlike any other. For music lovers, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in both the classical world and Cartagena’s rich cultural tapestry.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary cultural experience!
Hay Festival Cartagena
Date: January 30 to February 2, 2025.
For those with a passion for literature, art, and big ideas, the Hay Festival Cartagena is an unmissable experience. This literary festival attracts global thinkers, authors, and artists to engage in thought-provoking discussions, debates, and workshops. It’s a gathering of creative minds where literature meets current affairs, art, and culture.
Key moments of the festival include talks by acclaimed authors, discussions on global issues, and a range of art exhibitions that highlight the beauty and complexity of the written word. Expect to engage with intellectuals from all over the world while soaking in the vibrant and artistic spirit of Cartagena.
Cartagena International Film Festival (FICCI)
For film enthusiasts, the Cartagena International Film Festival (FICCI) is the pinnacle of Latin American cinema. Founded in 1960, FICCI is the oldest film festival in Latin America and showcases an impressive lineup of international and Latin American films. Held every March, the festival transforms Cartagena into a cinematic wonderland, with screenings, panel discussions, and special events taking place across the city.
In addition to discovering new films, visitors can participate in workshops, attend Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and enjoy exclusive red-carpet events. It’s the perfect mix of film, culture, and Cartagena’s glamorous setting.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of Cartagena Colombia events, timing is key. Depending on your interests, you can plan your trip around specific events such as the Cartagena International Music Festival in January or the Independence Day Celebrations in November. If you’re looking to experience multiple events in one trip, late January offers a great opportunity to enjoy both the Music Festival and Hay Festival.
When attending popular events, it’s important to book tickets and accommodations early, as they tend to sell out quickly. Elite Journey Cartagena can assist with insider tips, securing VIP access, and ensuring your visit is seamless and unforgettable choose your concierge package for peace of mind in your vacation at Cartagena.
Cartagena’s event scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re drawn to the melodies of the International Music Festival, the intellectual buzz of the Hay Festival, or the lively Independence Day parades, Cartagena Colombia events offer something for everyone. Beyond the major festivals, the city’s cultural and culinary fairs provide a more intimate way to experience the essence of Cartagena. Plan your visit around these incredible events, and you’ll find that the magic of Cartagena comes alive in every celebration.
