Carnival of Bogotá

Bogotá's Carnival, also known as the Carnival of Bogotá, is a vibrant annual celebration held every August 5th and 6th, commemorating the city's Hispanic founding anniversary. This colorful event primarily takes place at Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar, with pre-carnival festivities beginning in July. The carnival aims to highlight and celebrate Colombia's rich cultural and musical diversity.

The carnival is abundant with various activities that animate the city's streets. Visitors can enjoy Comparsas, which are parades featuring folkloric groups from different regions and cultures of Colombia, as well as Verbenas, notably lively street parties, and a special Children's Carnival parade.

The origins of this carnival date back to 1539 when the Spanish Crown declared celebrations in Bogotá during Lent. The modern iteration of the carnival began in 1916 with the crowning of the first carnival queen. However, the carnival faced challenges and was suspended in the 1930s and 1960s due to issues with alcohol abuse and violence.

Fortunately, in 2005, the Mayor of Bogotá revitalized the carnival with a renewed emphasis on fellowship, creative expression, and inclusion. Since then, the carnival has featured different themes each year, such as the Carnival of Diversity, Carnival of Creative Sharing, and Carnival of Reconciliation.

Significant moments in the carnival's history include the celebration of Muisca culture in 1561, the crowning of the first queen in 1916, and its revival in 2005 with a focus on diversity and inclusion. Today, Bogotá's Carnival continues to be a vibrant and joyous celebration of Colombian culture and heritage, drawing both locals and visitors to revel in the festivities.