Christmas Tourism in Pamplona

Experience the traditional "Day of the Little Candles" on December 7

One of the most beautiful traditions representing our country is undoubtedly the "Day of the Little Candles." On this day, families gather to light a candle, symbolizing life and gratitude for the year that is coming to an end. In Pamplona, people gather in Águeda Gallardo Park or the central squares, and just as they do in every home, they light candles—one for each member of the family.

It is exciting and beautiful to walk the streets of the "City of Mitre" during the Day of the Little Candles. Every house has little lights outside, accompanied by traditional seasonal music or the most beautiful Christmas carols. It is common to see neighbors visiting each other to share buñuelos, empanadas, wine, or natilla. You can see groups of friends out and about in the city and children dressed in beautiful outfits to celebrate the season.

A tour of the Christmas lights and decorations

One of the most exciting things to do during Christmas in Pamplona is to walk through the streets to admire the festive lights and decorations. The central Águeda Gallardo de Villamizar Park, Calle Real, and the main streets are transformed into a spectacle of bright, colorful lights. Historic buildings—such as grand mansions and churches—along with the facades of homes, are adorned with garlands, twinkling lights, and Christmas figures, creating a magical atmosphere that lets you experience the beauty of the Christmas spirit.

Take part in the Novena de Aguinaldos

Another beautiful tradition is the novena, which is observed before the arrival of the Baby Jesus. Over the course of nine days, the people of Pamplona gather with their families and communities. This practice can also be found in churches and historic buildings in the city center, where the tradition is organized by the city’s public and private organizations.

This tradition involves praying, singing, and praising the Baby Jesus, who is about to arrive. Each location has its own Christmas tree and nativity scene, many of which depict the fields nestled among the majestic mountains of the great Santurbán region. In Pamplona, communities and families come together, with our children always taking center stage, leading each day of the Christmas novena with tambourines and beautiful songs.

Enjoy the holiday cuisine

Gastronomy plays a fundamental role in Christmas celebrations in Pamplona. During this season, you can enjoy traditional dishes such as tamales, hayacas, trout, local Pamplona cream soups, and cuisine from Norte de Santander—all of which you’ll, of course, find at the CHITARERO RESTAURANT AT THE HOTEL CARIONGO. You can also savor the unmissable natilla and buñuelos, which you can pair with a glass of mulled wine in any of the beautiful spaces of our legendary hotel. These authentic flavors will transport you to the comfort of home-cooked meals and allow you to enjoy the culinary richness of the region. Experience Christmas through the authentic flavors of Pamplona and the Cariongo!

Visiting Nativity Scenes: Spaces Filled with Light, Love, and Tradition

Believe it or not, the tradition in Pamplona is for each community to set up a nativity scene where they gather every night during the Novena de Aguinaldos to pray, sing, share, and enjoy the most beautiful time of the year.

One of the traditions that Christmas brings to the “City of Mitre” is visiting nativity scenes. You’ll find many of them in the seven major churches and chapels—which also create beautiful settings for the birth of the Baby Jesus—as well as within the communities, as I explained earlier. So, you can set aside several days to appreciate the love and creativity that the people of Pamplona put into creating their nativity scenes. Many of these depict the local green landscapes, complete with rivers and animals native to the Andes, such as birds, goats, sheep, horses, and ducks, among others. Appreciating these beautiful traditional works of art will allow you to experience the deepest meaning of Christmas.

Pamplona, Colombia, offers a variety of Christmas experiences that will immerse you in the festive spirit and allow you to enjoy the region’s rich culture and traditions. From strolling through the illuminated streets to participating in the Novenas de Aguinaldos and enjoying delicious holiday cuisine in the best Cariongo style, Pamplona offers a unique experience during the Christmas season. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the charm of this Colombian city and create unforgettable memories this Christmas. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!