photo by Reg Natarajan (via Flickr)
Colombian holiday celebrations kick off early and when you’re touring this country’s historic cities, you’ll notice that Christmas truly is a month-long affair with no decoration, food or festivity held back. So if you’re pondering about how to spend the holidays, just pack a bag and plan your Colombian adventure tour to experience an unforgettable Christmas trip.
photo by Juan Mejuto (via Creative Commons)
Novenas
One way that Colombia wins in the Christmas game is the widespread practice of Novenas, or the gathering of friends and family starting nine days before Christmas. During Novenas, friends and family take turns hosting an evening at each other’s houses where there will be delicious food offerings including natilla and buñuelos (cheese puffs).
Before the feast each night, people gather to pray, sing carols and enjoy each other’s company in beautifully Christmas-light decorated apartments and homes. And for the younger generation, nightclubs and some restaurants also offer community Novenas which is perfect if you’re traveling solo or as a couple and still want to be a part of a “family” during your travels. Just make sure to ask your Colombia adventure guide for the best recommendations.
photo by Reg Natarajan (via Flickr)
Aguinaldos
Another uniquely Colombian Christmas tradition is the implementation of Aguinaldos or cheeky games leading up to Christmas Eve. The idea is to endlessly tease your friends, family and co-workers up until the day you exchange presents. It’s another way to keep the childhood spirit alive during the holidays.
Some popular Aguinaldos include the game “three feet” in which you must make sure your opponent doesn’t place his or her foot in between yours. Another one is called “stolen kiss” where you must avoid being kissed (this one is probably best kept between lovers). And a third popular on is “straw in the mouth” where you have to go all day with a straw in your mouth. That one sounds like it’d be harder to do but anything in the name of fun!
Day of Innocents
The States may have April Fools but Colombians have the Day of Innocents, which is essentially April Fools, on December 28. During this day, locals enjoy playing pranks on each other and telling jokes. This has become a popular holiday over the years as it helps keep the spark alive in-between Christmas day and New Year’s.
Some popular pranks played during this day include giving others fake food and inventing stories. Local newscasts also intentionally make blooper-worthy mistakes on this day as well as tell funny/fake news --- with full-disclosure of course.
Let’s Go!
So whether you’re a roaming nomad during the holidays or want to take a break from family drama and jet abroad with your sweetheart, Colombia has the perfect combination that will make you feel free yet part of a family. Just reach out to Uncharted Colombia to plan your custom Colombian adventure tour .