Colombia’s ‘Candles’ Day’ (Día de las Velitas) is one of the most important and striking celebrations for Colombian culture at Christmas. The streets are filled with lights that illuminate the evenings of December 7 and December 8 and turn Villa de Leyva into an incredible place to experience the festive season in Colombia. The commemoration is not only beautiful, it’s unforgettable too.
Christmas celebrations start early in Villa de Leyva, with the traditional Festival of Lights. The people of the town adorn its balconies, sidewalks and terraces with candles and lanterns to commemorate the Immaculate Conception.
This is a unique opportunity to visit this acclaimed this town in Boyacá, Colombia and participate in a magical experience. The candle-lit cobbled streets and sparkling white façades are a charming sight for visitors, who travel thousands of kilometers to witness it each year.
Festive choirs sing and there are stunning pyrotechnics, among other activities, to entertain visitors throughout these Christmas celebrations. Villa de Leyva comes alive at this time of year, welcoming both Colombian and foreign guests, so those keen to experience it are advised to reserve their hotels, tours and restaurants well in advance.
Top tip: Secure a spot to see the amazing lights’ shows and pyrotechnics in the town square by visiting one of the surrounding cafés and restaurants as early as you can, so you can savor the afternoon in Villa de Leyva before a unique evening with the best view in town.
If you’re keen to explore, you can also visit the ‘blue pools’ (pozos azules) five minutes from Villa de Leyva. This lovely place, so close to the town square, is ideal for a change of scenery and the chance to take incredible photographs beside these turquoise lakes.
