Barranquilla Carnival

Colombia · music and dance · celebration · culture

Massive four-day party. Four days before Lent, the city of Barranquilla shuts down normal life and transforms into a giant festival where locals and visitors dance and celebrate together in the streets.

Many different dance styles. The carnival includes Spanish paloteo, African Congo, and indigenous mice y mica's dances, showing how many cultures blend together in Colombia.

Colombian music and instruments. Cumbia music is performed throughout the carnival, played with drums and wind instruments that create the festive sounds filling the streets.

World-recognized treasure. In 2002, Colombia's government declared it a Cultural Masterpiece of the Nation, and UNESCO honored it in 2003 as a Masterpiece of Humanity's cultural heritage.

Traditions over 150 years old. The carnival's customs go back to the 1800s, making it one of the oldest and most important celebrations in Colombia.