In December, Medellín switches on. The river is lined with lights, the parks fill with families, whole neighbourhoods climb ladders to decorate their own streets, and on the night of December 7 every doorstep has a candle. Colombians travel from across the country to see it.
When are the lights on?#
The alumbrados are on from early December 2026 to early January 2027. The switch-on date and the main locations are announced each year. They're best after dark, from about 6:30pm.
Where to see them#
- Along the Medellín River. The biggest displays are usually set up along the river and the parks beside it.
- Parks across the city. Official displays are spread through the city; check the year's list of locations.
- The neighbourhoods. Many barrios decorate their own streets, sometimes with competitions between blocks. Ask a local which ones are worth the trip this year.
The nights that matter#
- December 7, Noche de Velitas. The eve of the Immaculate Conception: families light candles and paper lanterns on doorsteps and pavements across Colombia. It opens the season.
- December 16–24, the novenas. Nine nights of prayers, carols and food in homes, parks and churches. Try buñuelos (cheese fritters) and natilla (a set custard).
- December 24, Nochebuena. Colombia's big night of Christmas, with family dinner and presents at midnight.
- December 31. New Year's Eve, with fireworks over the valley.
Tips#
- Go on a weekday if you can; weekends are packed.
- Use the metro to get to the river displays, and ride apps or registered taxis home.
- Carry little in the crowds.
- Bring a light jacket. Medellín's evenings are mild but can be cool.
| When | Early Dec 2026 to early Jan 2027 |
|---|---|
| Big nights | Dec 7 (Velitas), Dec 16–24 (novenas), Dec 24 |
| Where | The river, parks, and neighbourhood streets |
| Best time | After dark |
More about the city: things to do in Medellín, the complete Medellín guide and is Medellín safe. Then south for the salsa: the Feria de Cali, December 25–30.
See it with someone from Medellín#
The official lights are easy to find. The neighbourhood that outdid itself this year, and a novena at someone's home, need a local. Local Friends in Medellín are locals you message directly on Roavi. How to meet locals in Medellín. More about the city: the Medellín city guide.
See the alumbrados with someone from Medellín.
Meet Local Friends in MedellínEvery big festival and holiday worldwide, month by month, with the dates: the Roavi world events calendar.
Still weighing the safety question? Is Colombia safe covers what locals actually say, city by city.
For the music side of Colombia, Cali, the salsa capital is where the dance floors are serious.
Planning the whole month? Medellín in December covers the weather, the dates and booking around high season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are Medellín's Christmas lights on in 2026?
From early December 2026 to early January 2027. The switch-on date and the main locations are announced each year; the lights stay on through the holidays.Where are the best Christmas lights in Medellín?
The official alumbrados are usually along the Medellín River and in parks across the city, and the locations are announced each year. Many neighbourhoods decorate their own streets, and those are often the most memorable.What is the Noche de Velitas?
The night of December 7, when families across Colombia light candles and paper lanterns on doorsteps and pavements, the eve of the Immaculate Conception. It opens the Christmas season.What are the novenas?
Nine nights of prayer, carols and food from December 16 to 24, held in homes, parks and churches. Buñuelos and natilla are the classic snacks.Is it safe to see the lights at night?
The main areas are busy and family-friendly. Carry little, keep your phone close in crowds, and use ride apps or registered taxis to get home.
