This 2024, the Barranquilla Carnival will take place on February 10, 11, 12, and 13. Additionally, the pre-carnival events will run from January 20 to February 9, featuring comedy shows, parades, coronations, and dances.

Carnival Schedule

DAY 1 – Saturday, February 10:

• Battle of Flowers (Batalla de Flores) – Via 40
• King Momo Parade (Desfile del Rey Momo) – Calle 17
• Dance the Street (Baila la Calle) – Night of Orchestras – Par Vial Cra 50
• Comedy Encounter (Encuentro de Comedias) – Parque Metropolitano

DAY 2 – Sunday, February 11:

• Grand Traditional Parade (Gran parada de Tradición) – Via 40
• Dance the Street (Baila la Calle) – Orchestra Festival – Par Vial Cra 50
• Festival of Letanías – Barrio Abajo
• Comedy Encounter (Encuentro de Comedias) – Parque Olaya

DAY 3 – Monday, February 12:

• Grand Comparsas Parade (Gran Parada de Comparsas) – Via 40
• Comedy Encounter (Encuentro de Comedias) – Parque Almendra

DAY 4 – Tuesday, February 13:

• Joselito Parade (Desfile de Joselito) – Cra 54 to Barrio Abajo

Barranquilla, Colombia is a beautiful city with rich history and culture, attracting tourists from all over the world. For visitors who don’t speak Spanish, navigating the city can be a little daunting as not everyone speaks English. Here are 25 useful Spanish phrases for tourists visiting Barranquilla Colombia to help them communicate and explore the city with ease.

1. Hola – Hello
2. ¿Cómo estás? – How are you?
3. Bien, gracias ¿y tú? – Well, thank you, and you?
4. Por favor – Please
5. Gracias – Thank you
6. Lo siento – I’m sorry
7. De nada – You’re welcome
8. ¿Hablas inglés? – Do you speak English?
9. No hablo español – I don’t speak Spanish
10. ¿Cuál es tu nombre? – What is your name?
11. Mi nombre es… – My name is…
12. ¿Dónde está…? – Where is…?
13. ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
14. ¿Puede ayudarme? – Can you help me?
15. Necesito ayuda – I need help
16. ¿Dónde puedo comprar…? – Where can I buy…?
17. ¿Dónde puedo comer? – Where can I eat?
18. La cuenta, por favor – The bill, please
19. ¿A qué hora abre/cierra? – What time does it open/close?
20. ¿Qué me recomienda? – What do you recommend?
21. ¿Qué significa…? – What does… mean?
22. No me gusta – I don’t like it
23. Sí, por favor – Yes, please
24. No, gracias – No, thank you
25. Adiós – Goodbye

Having these few phrases will help significantly in a foreign country where the locals speak a different language. As a tourist, using these phrases will help you connect with the people and make your stay more enjoyable. It’s best to learn these phrases beforehand as it will save you lots of time and make your travel experience a lot more straightforward. Barranquilla is a colorful and vibrant city that has much to offer, and communicating with locals will give you a different perspective and enhance your experience as a visitor.

Our itinerary is based on arriving on Wednesday, February 26, two days before the Friday start of Carnival 2025

Day 1: Arrival in Barranquilla

Upon arrival at the Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of music and the colorful decorations that line the streets. Take a taxi or private transfer to your hotel and check-in for a comfortable stay during the carnival week. In the evening, take a stroll around the city center to immerse yourself in the excitement of the city.

Day 2: Thursday of Carnival

Wake up to the lively sounds of the carnival music and get ready for the first day of the carnival. Join in the parade and follow the rhythms of the carnival bands as they lead you through the streets of Barranquilla. Thursday of Carnival is also known as the “Coronation Day,” when the Carnival Queen is crowned in a grand ceremony.

Day 3: Friday of Carnival

On Friday, the carnival atmosphere is in full swing, and you’ll find locals and tourists alike dressed in colorful costumes and masks. Join in the fun as the kids take over the streets in the Children’s Parade. Watch as they showcase their artistic talents and put on a show filled with music, dance, and laughter.

Day 4: Battle of the Flowers

Saturday is the most important day of the carnival, as it’s the day of the Battle of the Flowers. This traditional parade is a spectacular event where the streets come alive with colorful floats decorated with flowers. The parade is known for its catchy music and contagious energy, and it’s something you don’t want to miss.

Day 5: Great Parade

Sunday is the day of the Great Parade, where thousands of dancers and performers showcase their skills in amazing costumes. The parade covers many kilometers of the streets of Barranquilla, and the entire city comes out to watch the spectacle. The parade is the grand finale of the carnival, and it’s a must-see event for anyone visiting Barranquilla during the carnival period.

Day 6: Monday Recovery

Monday is a day of recovery after the intense carnival events of the weekend. Take some time to relax or explore some of the other sights around Barranquilla. You can visit the Barranquilla Zoo or explore the city’s museums, such as the Museum of the Caribbean or the Romelio Martinez Stadium Museum.

Day 7: Departure from Barranquilla

On your final day in Barranquilla, take some time to reflect on your carnival experience and say your goodbyes to the city. Check out of your hotel and take a taxi or private transfer to the airport for your flight home. We’re sure you’ll leave with memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Every year, the city of Barranquilla in Colombia hosts one of the biggest carnivals in the world, a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and culture that lasts for four days. Carnival 2025 begins on Friday Feb 28 and ends on Tuesday Mar 4.

If you’re coming from outside of Colombia, there are many international flights to Bogota or Medellin, and from there, you can take a domestic flight to Barranquilla. Most airlines, such as Avianca, LATAM, and Copa Airlines, have daily flights to Barranquilla from major cities in Colombia, including Bogota, Medellin, Cali, and Cartagena.

During the carnival season, flights to Barranquilla can get booked up quickly, so it’s best to book a few months in advance. We recommend Skycanner for the best and cheapest options. Check out the prices on Skycanner now to compare prices from all of the airlines with destinations to BAQ for Carnival 2025. If you want to enjoy the pre-Carnival festivities before Carnival’s official start on Friday February 28, search for an earlier arrival date.

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While enjoying the parades and parties, you’ll want to refuel with some delicious food and refreshing drinks. Here are ten of the best bars and restaurants to check out during your Carnival adventure in Barranquilla.

La Cueva
A legendary spot frequented by the likes of Gabriel García Márquez, La Cueva offers a unique dining experience filled with local history. The restaurant features traditional Caribbean cuisine, with dishes like sancocho and arepas. The atmosphere is vibrant, making it a perfect place to kick off your Carnival festivities.

El Hangar
Located near the airport, El Hangar combines aviation-themed decor with a lively bar scene. Their extensive cocktail menu and diverse menu, featuring everything from seafood to grilled meats, make it a great stop before heading to the Carnival events.

Casa de la Cerveza
For craft beer lovers, Casa de la Cerveza is a must-visit. This bar boasts a wide selection of local and international beers, along with tasty pub grub. With its lively atmosphere, it’s a fantastic place to gather with friends and enjoy the Carnival vibe.

Restaurante El Buen Gusto
Known for its exceptional seafood, El Buen Gusto offers a delightful dining experience. Their ceviche is a crowd favorite, and the restaurant’s ambiance is perfect for unwinding after a day of festivities. Don’t miss their signature cocktails!

La Casona
La Casona features a charming courtyard setting, ideal for enjoying a meal or a drink in the open air. The menu showcases local flavors with a modern twist, and their extensive wine selection pairs perfectly with their dishes. It’s a peaceful oasis amid the Carnival chaos.

Bar 54
If you’re looking for nightlife, Bar 54 is one of the hottest spots in Barranquilla. With live music and DJ sets, this bar offers a lively atmosphere to dance the night away. Enjoy signature cocktails and a diverse tapas menu that will keep you fueled for the Carnival celebrations.

La Plaza de la Paz
This vibrant plaza is home to numerous food stalls and casual dining options. During Carnival, it transforms into a hub of activity with live music and performances. Grab a quick bite of empanadas or patacones and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Zaragoza Bar
For a more laid-back vibe, Zaragoza Bar is perfect. Known for its strong cocktails and local spirits, this bar also features live music that adds to the Carnival spirit. It’s a great place to relax and mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

Café del Parque
Located in a beautiful park setting, Café del Parque is ideal for a casual breakfast or lunch. The menu includes delicious coffee, pastries, and light bites. It’s a great spot to recharge before heading back into the Carnival festivities.

Bocadillo
Bocadillo is a trendy eatery that serves up a mix of traditional and contemporary Colombian dishes. Their creative cocktails and stylish ambiance make it a perfect place for a pre-Carnival dinner. Make sure to try their signature bocadillos, a delightful take on classic Colombian snacks.

As with any travel destination, it’s important to know the do’s and don’ts. The vast majority of items on this list are basic common sense, or tips that travel veterans have already heard a million times. However, take a few minutes to remember how to have a fun and safe trip to Barranquilla Colombia.

DO’s:
1. Do dress appropriately for the climate and culture. Colombia is a tropical country, so plan on wearing light, breathable clothing. Also, consider the local customs, especially when visiting religious or conservative areas.

2. Do use common sense when traveling. Avoid flashing valuables, especially in crowded areas known for pick-pocketing.

3. Do keep an eye on your belongings. It’s always a good idea to keep your valuables close to you and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

4. Do try the local cuisine. Colombian food is packed with flavors, traditional dishes, fruits, and exotic drinks that shouldn’t be missed.

5. Do learn some basic Spanish. Although many Colombians speak English, knowing some basic Spanish phrases can help you connect with locals and navigate the country.

6. Do research and respect local customs and traditions. Colombia has a diverse culture with a range of beliefs and customs that you should be mindful of when traveling, especially in rural areas.

7. Do visit the popular tourist destinations such as Medellin, Cartagena, and Bogota. These are beautiful cities with a rich history and offer plenty of activities for tourists.

DON’Ts:
1. Don’t travel alone in isolated areas. Stick to the well-known tourist areas and stay within recommended safety zones.

2. Don’t draw attention to yourself. Avoid wearing excessive flashy jewelry, carrying large amounts of cash, or speaking loudly in public.

3. Don’t do drugs. Colombia has a reputation for drug trafficking, but this is not an image the country wants to promote.

4. Don’t disrespect the local culture. Avoid making inappropriate comments or gestures about local customs or traditions.

5. Don’t litter. Colombia has made significant progress with environmental sustainability, so respect the environment while exploring the beautiful natural landscapes.

6. Don’t trust strangers blindly, especially when they offer you a deal or tour that is too good to be true.

7. Don’t take photos of strangers without their permission. Be respectful of locals’ privacy and cultural traditions.

In conclusion, visiting Colombia can be an incredible experience filled with adventures, delicious food, and meeting friendly locals. By being respectful and mindful of local customs and traditions, using common sense and caution while traveling, and being responsible, you’ll enjoy a memorable trip to this beautiful country.

Carnival is a worldwide celebration that has been around for centuries and is celebrated at different times throughout the year. In Barranquilla, Colombia, Carnival is a unique and vibrant event that takes place annually, with a tradition that dates back to the early 20th century. The Barranquilla Carnival is recognized as one of the biggest and most colorful celebrations in the world, and it is a spectacle filled with music, dance, costumes, and folklore.

The Carnival in Barranquilla is a mix of African, European, and Indigenous traditions and is rooted in Colombia’s history and culture. The Carnival usually takes place in February or March, four days before Ash Wednesday. It is a time of year when the people of Barranquilla put on their best costumes, decorative masks, and prepare to take to the streets for a four-day-long celebration.

The Carnival in Barranquilla starts on a Saturday and lasts for four days. The first day, known as La Batalla de Flores (The Battle of Flowers), is a grand parade where participants carry ornate and colorful floats with flowers and costumes inspired by the region’s traditions. The parade is a celebration of beauty and love, and it features music from various groups, as well as dancers, singers, and artists. The parade’s highlight is an elected “queen” who is adorned with a luxurious costume and represents the city’s Carnival festivities.

On the second day, la Gran Parada (The Great Parade) takes place. This parade is more of a cultural event and showcases some of the city’s unique folklore, including the Paloteo, a dance ritual that celebrates the region’s African heritage. The parade also features groups of musicians known as comparsas, who perform traditional music and dance in colorful outfits designed in the various themes of each comparsa.

The third day is known as El Garabato (The Rattle), and it features the Marimondas, a group of festival-goers dressed in bright and beautifully decorated costumes that have a long-established origin in Barranquilla’s folklore.

The final day of the Barranquilla Carnival is known as El Entierro de Joselito (The Burial of Joselito), and it marks the end of the four-day-long celebration. The tradition of El Entierro commemorates the end of Carnival and the return to normal life as the people of Barranquilla bid farewell to Joselito, a fictional character who represents the Carnival spirit.

In addition to the parades and the dance rituals, the Carnival in Barranquilla is a time for people to come together, socialize, and enjoy traditional foods and drinks. One of the favorite festival foods is the fried arepa, a traditional corn bread that is stuffed with cheese or meat, and washed down with a refreshing drink called la lulada, which is made from an exotic fruit called lulo.

In conclusion, the Barranquilla Carnival is an extraordinary event that demonstrates the cultural diversity and richness of Colombia. It is a proud showcase of the African, European, and Indigenous traditions that have shaped the country’s history and identity. By celebrating with colorful costumes, dance, music, and folklore, the people of Barranquilla keep the Carnival tradition alive and make it a must-see event for locals and tourists alike.

Carnival is a celebration of life and culture that dates back centuries and is celebrated in different parts of the world in a variety of ways. Each city has its unique traditions and customs, and Barranquilla, Colombia, is no exception.

Barranquilla is home to one of the most famous Carnivals in the world – a four-day-long celebration that is renowned for its vibrant colors, music, dance, and folklore. The Carnival’s origins in Barranquilla date back to the early 20th century when it was a small neighborhood event. Over time, the Carnival has grown in size and importance to become a globally recognized cultural event.

The Carnival in Barranquilla is a blend of African, European, and Indigenous traditions and has been recognized as a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Every year, over a million people from around the world visit Barranquilla to witness the spectacular parade of costumes, music, and dance that makes the Carnival a unique experience.

When compared to other Carnival celebrations around the world, the Barranquilla Carnival stands out due to its African-inspired dance and music rituals. The Carnival’s Paloteo dance ritual, which is celebrated during the Gran Parada on the second day, incorporates African rhythms and beats, and it is performed by groups of dancers in bright and colorful costumes.

Another city with a unique Carnival celebration is Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is one of the most popular Carnivals in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. The Rio Carnival features elaborate costumes, elaborate and colorful floats, and samba music that fills the air. The Rio Carnival is famous for its Samba Parade, where thousands of dancers and musicians march down the city’s streets to showcase their dancing skills and traditional samba music.

Venice, Italy, also has a Carnival that is known for its elaborate masks and masquerade balls. The Venice Carnival is steeped in tradition and history, dating back to the 12th century when the Venice Republic enjoyed prosperity and power. During Carnival, Venetians dressed in elaborate costumes and masks and attended masked balls and subtle theatrics.

Carnival celebrations in the Caribbean island of Trinidad and Tobago, also have a unique flavor in their celebrations. The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival features calypso music and steelpan bands, and its colorful parade of costumes and floats is known as the “Greatest Show on Earth”. The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is a mix of African, European, and East Indian cultures and examples numerous traditional musical dance rituals in its celebrations.

Notably, the Carnival celebrations in each of the cities share commonalities that make the Carnival event a festive experience. All of the cities have grand parades to showcase costumes and floats, traditional food and drink that are typical at every Carnival, and the use of costumes and masks to create an atmosphere of mystery and celebration.

In conclusion, the Carnival is a global celebration of culture and life that is celebrated in many cities all over the world, with each presenting its unique style, highlights, and traditions. While each Carnival may vary from country to country or from city to city, they all share a common thread in that they all embody the coming together of people to celebrate the richness and diversity of their cultures. The Carnival in Barranquilla Colombia, while unique, is an excellent example of how the Carnival has been passed down through generations, and how it continues to evolve while still respecting the origins and the cultural relevance that this celebration has in Colombia.

Barranquilla, Colombia, is famous for its colorful, vibrant Carnival celebration, which attracts visitors from all over the world. But what about families with young children? Is Carnival a kid-friendly event? Yes, it is! In fact, there are plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Barranquilla during Carnival week. Book your flight now, reserve a place to stay, and take the family to any of these great options!

1. Visit the Children’s Carnival

The Children’s Carnival, or “Carnaval de los Niños,” takes place a few days before the main Carnival event. This is a special day dedicated to children, with plenty of activities and shows designed just for them. Children can dress up in costumes, watch puppet shows, and participate in games and dances. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the Carnival atmosphere in a more relaxed and child-friendly environment.

2. Watch the Batalla de Flores

The Batalla de Flores, or Flowers Battle, is a colorful parade that takes place on the first day of Carnival. The parade features floats and dancers adorned with flowers, and spectators can spray each other with foam and throw confetti from the sidelines. Kids love this part of the Carnival, and it’s a great way to participate in the festivities without getting overwhelmed by the crowds.

3. Attend a Musical Show

During Carnival week, there are plenty of musical shows and concerts taking place in Barranquilla. Some of these events are family-friendly and have areas specifically designated for kids. This is a great way to introduce kids to Colombian music and to experience the joy and energy of Carnival through music and dance.

4. Take a Cooking Class

Carnival is a time for celebrating food, and there are many traditional dishes that are prepared just for this occasion. Taking a cooking class with your family is a fun and educational way to experience the flavors of Carnival. You can learn how to make traditional dishes like arepas, empanadas, and bunuelos. This is also an opportunity to learn about the cultural significance of these dishes and their role in Colombian cuisine.

5. Explore the Local Markets

Barranquilla has several local markets that are not only a great place to find souvenirs but also a chance to experience local culture. The markets are full of colorful crafts, food, and other products that are unique to the region. Kids will love exploring the market, and you can teach them about the importance of shopping locally and supporting small businesses.

In conclusion, Barranquilla Carnival may be known for its lively adults-only celebrations, but there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy during the festivities. Whether it’s attending the Children’s Carnival, participating in the Flowers Battle, or exploring the local markets and cuisine, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy in Barranquilla during Carnival week.