Tourism in Pamplona: January and February

Feast of Our Lady of Candelaria

The Feast of Our Lady of Candelaria is one of Pamplona's most important religious celebrations. It is held on February 2, but the festivities begin in late January. During this time, processions, Masses, traditional dances, and cultural events are held in honor of the Virgin. The faithful flock to the church to offer their prayers and thanks, while music and dance events fill the city streets. 

During this beautiful time, churches prepare for the "ritual of light," which draws a large number of believers to the "City of Mitrada." During this liturgical ceremony, parishioners participate in the Eucharist, and at the end, the priest leads a procession carrying the light of Candelaria, represented by a lit candle. He shares this light with the participants, who bring their own candles to receive the light from the Virgin of Candelaria. 

This ceremony, held in all of Pamplona's churches, becomes a unique occasion marked by solemnity and faith, as these places of worship are filled with beautiful hymns to God and the Virgin Mary, accompanied by incense and an atmosphere of deep reverence.

Novena of Saint Sebastian

The Novena of Saint Sebastian is a religious celebration held in late January. We want to highlight this because the Hotel Cariongo in Pamplona was originally the Hermitage of Saint Sebastian, built by the Spanish during their colonization of the indigenous peoples. This structure was built over 400 years ago during the Spanish conquest of the country.

Many local residents uphold this tradition and devotion to Saint Sebastian, a Roman military officer, saint, and martyr venerated by the Catholic Church, who lived in the 3rd century. 

During the novena, prayers, Masses, processions, and cultural events are held in honor of the saint. Activities such as dance competitions and live music also take place.

Feast of Saint Sebastian in the municipality of Cácota

Just a few kilometers away is the municipality of Cácota, part of the province of Pamplona, which also celebrates the Feast of Saint Sebastian in January. During this festival, processions, Masses, and cultural events are held in honor of the saint. Activities such as dance competitions and live music also take place. This festival is an opportunity to experience the religious devotion and joy of the local community.

‍

San Isidro Labrador Festival in the municipality of Silos

Another nearby municipality is Santo Domingo de Silos, which is located in the province of Pamplona. The San Isidro Labrador Festival is held there in January. San Isidro Labrador is considered the patron saint of farmers, and during this festival, processions, Masses, and cultural events are held in his honor. Activities such as dance competitions and live music also take place, and you can enjoy the local cuisine. 

San Isidro is better known through popular tradition than through the authentic historical records available about his life. Nevertheless, he is one of the few medieval saints whose miracles were recorded in a codex. It is said that believers pray devoutly to this saint when winter arrives and the sun is needed for the crops and to brighten the days. You can still hear children shouting, “San Isidro Labrador, take away the rain and bring the sun,” as a tribute to this religious figure.

These are just a few of the religious festivals that attract tourists to Pamplona and its surrounding areas during January and early February. Each of these celebrations offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the spirituality and culture of the region and to experience the devotion and joy of the local community. If you’re looking for a religious and cultural experience in Colombia, Pamplona is the perfect place to visit in January. And remember, during your visit to the city, you’ll have a home away from home where you’ll find rooms with panoramic views of the Eastern Cordillera, two delicious restaurants, and unparalleled service at the best hotel in Pamplona. We look forward to seeing you.

‍