If you ask people in Medellín their favourite month, most will say December. The city lights up, families come home, and every neighbourhood has a reason to be out on the street at night. It is also the month when the whole country seems to travel, so a little planning goes a long way.
Weather in Medellín in December#
Medellín is the "city of eternal spring" and December is no exception: warm days and cool evenings, the same mild weather it has all year. The second rainy season usually winds down through December, so showers get less frequent as the month goes on. Pack a light rain jacket and a layer for the evenings.
What's on in December#
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Early December to early January | The alumbrados: Christmas lights along the river and in parks across the city |
| December 7 | Noche de Velitas: candles and lanterns on every doorstep, the start of Christmas |
| December 16 – 24 | The novenas: nine nights of prayers, carols and food with family and neighbours |
| December 24 | Christmas Eve, the big family night |
| December 31 | New Year's Eve, at home with family or out in El Poblado and Laureles |
The alumbrados are the reason Colombians travel to Medellín in December. Medellín Christmas lights 2026 has where to see them and how to avoid the worst of the crowds.
Noche de Velitas on December 7 is the most beautiful night of the month and the easiest to miss as a visitor, because it happens in neighbourhoods, not in one place. Walk a residential street after dark, or spend it with a local family.
High season: how to plan#
December is high season, and the last two weeks are the busiest.
- Book rooms early, especially from December 15 to January 6. Where to stay in Medellín compares the neighbourhoods.
- See the lights on a weeknight, and arrive early. Weekends are packed.
- Use the Metro, which serves the river and many of the light displays.
Staying safe in the crowds#
Medellín's usual advice matters more in December's crowds: keep your phone out of sight, don't accept drinks from strangers, use registered taxis or apps, and take extra care with people you meet on dating apps. Is Medellín safe? covers it properly.
Spend December with someone from Medellín#
Most of Medellín's Christmas happens inside homes and neighbourhoods: the novenas, the natilla and buñuelos, the candles on December 7. A Local Friend can take you to the parts a tour never reaches. Roavi Local Friends in Medellín are paisas who spend time with travellers, set their own rates and message you directly before you meet.
See Medellín's Christmas with a paisa.
Meet a Local Friend in MedellínMore ideas for the rest of your trip: things to do in Medellín and the best day trips from Medellín.
Heading to the coast too? Cartagena in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to visit Medellín?
Yes. It is one of the liveliest months: the alumbrados Christmas lights, Noche de Velitas on December 7, the novenas and New Year's Eve, with mild weather. The trade-off is that it is high season, so rooms cost more and fill early.What is the weather like in Medellín in December?
Mild, as it is all year: warm days and cool evenings, the 'city of eternal spring'. The second rainy season usually winds down through December, so showers become less frequent, but bring a light rain jacket.When are the Medellín Christmas lights in 2026?
The alumbrados usually switch on at the start of December and run into early January, along the Medellín River and in parks across the city. Check the city's announcement for the 2026 switch-on date.What is Noche de Velitas?
The night of December 7, the eve of the Immaculate Conception, when families across Colombia light candles and paper lanterns on doorsteps and pavements. It opens the Christmas season.Is Medellín crowded in December?
Yes, especially in the last two weeks: Colombians travel home for Christmas and many foreigners visit. The light displays are busiest at night and on weekends; weeknights are calmer.Is Medellín safe in December?
The usual Medellín precautions apply, more so in crowds: keep your phone out of sight, don't accept drinks from strangers, and be careful with people met on dating apps. Is Medellín safe covers it in detail.
