Barranquilla Carnival

When: Feb - Mar (before Lent); the exact dates move each year according to the liturgical calendar.

Where: Barranquilla, Colombia - parades and street parties take over the city centre and neighbourhoods.

Cost: Most street events are free to watch; official grandstand seats and special events require paid tickets.

Don’t miss: The Batalla de Flores parade, the nocturnal La Guacherna procession, the colourful comparsas and lively cumbia performances.

The Barranquilla Carnival in Barranquilla, Colombia is a centuries-old pre-Lenten festival that UNESCO recognises for its cultural significance. It grew from a mix of Spanish, African and indigenous rituals and has evolved into a vast city-wide celebration showcasing music, dance, masks and elaborate costumes.

During the festival the city becomes a continuous party: staged parades feature float processions, comparsas (street troupes) perform choreographed dances, brass bands and cumbia ensembles play everywhere, and costumed characters - from marimondas to big-head figures - roam the streets. Events spread across the historic centre, main avenues and public squares, with both daytime spectacles and lively night processions.

The carnival falls in February or early March each year, always in the days immediately before Ash Wednesday - so its dates shift with the Easter calendar. Organisers publish the full program annually, but expect the biggest gatherings and parades in the final weekend and the nights leading into Ash Wednesday.

If you want to see flagship events, watch the schedule for the Batalla de Flores and the major night processions: ticketed grandstand seats sell out early while many street parties remain spontaneous and continuous throughout the festival period.

Fly into Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ), the main international airport serving Barranquilla; it is a 20 - 40 minute drive to the city centre depending on traffic. During Carnival use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, and arrive at least a day early so you can settle in before parades begin; book accommodation and any official-event tickets well in advance.

• Respect local tradition in Barranquilla, Colombia: ask before photographing performers up close and avoid interrupting dances.

• Expect large, noisy crowds and warm weather; wear comfortable shoes, light clothing and sunscreen, and carry a small refillable water bottle.

• Carry some cash for food stalls and souvenirs - not all vendors accept cards - and keep valuables secure to reduce pickpocket risk.

• Book grandstand tickets, hotel rooms and transport at least several months ahead for the best choice and prices.

• Use official taxis or licensed ride-hailing services late at night and agree fares or use meters; allow extra travel time because of road closures and detours.

• If you want a better view, arrive early to parade routes or join a local comparsa (some accept visitors) rather than trying to push through crowds during peak moments.