In a symphony of lights and holiday cheer, Bogotá will transform on Thursday, December 7, into a dazzling Christmas wonderland, casting a magical spell over both residents and visitors. The enchanting candlelighting festivities of Noche de Velitas sponsored by the capital’s electricity company Enel, will bathe the Colombian capital in a radiant glow that promises to captivate hearts throughout December and into the New Year.
Ruta Navideña 2023: A luminous journey across the city
The mesmerizing “Ruta Navideña” is the crown jewel of this festive extravaganza, weaving through 35 carefully selected locations strategically scattered across the city. Over 7 million bulbs will adorn the urban landscape, creating a breathtaking tapestry of lights that residents are invited to explore. Open daily from 6 p.m. until midnight, the route spans 17 localities, promising to captivate all audiences until the lights go out on January 9.
Barrios Unidos and Chapinero Alight with the festive spirit
In the city’s north, the Barrios Unidos locality beckons residents to experience the magic of Christmas lighting at strategic points like Parque de los Novios, Parque el Cuadrado, and Parque San Felipe, covering an expansive 23 hectares. Meanwhile, Chapinero lcontributes to the festive spirit with illuminated displays at Parque Vecinal El Nogal, Parque de Lourdes, Zota T, Plazoleta Parque El Virrey, and Parque de los Hippies. On December 7, the Parque de los Hippies (Cra 7 with Calle 60), will host the electrifying Electro Velitas event, starting at 4 p.m., featuring a fusion of electronic beats and traditional Colombian music with renowned local DJs and recording artists Julio Victoria, Santiago Navas, and Los Maquineros de Bacatá.
Night of Candles at Parque Simón Bolívar
Mark your calendars for December 7, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., as Parque Simón Bolívar takes center stage for the traditional ‘Night of Candles.’ This magical evening promises various performances, musical shows, and Christmas works, featuring artists like Cantores de Chipuco and the youthful Clara Luna, offering a diverse range of entertainment for all ages.
Christmas Night Ciclovía: Cycling through a wonderland of lights
A highlight on the festive calendar is the Christmas Night Ciclovía, scheduled for December 14. Organized by the District Institute of Recreation and Sports, this cycling extravaganza transforms the city’s main roads into a 95.3-kilometer route, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the enchanting Christmas lights adorning Avenida Boyacá and Carrera Séptima from 6:00 p.m. to midnight.
Monserrate: Hillside spectacle for climbing enthusiasts
Monserrate, a much cherished destination, invites Christmas enthusiasts to ascend its heights for a unique nighttime experience. The public lighting at Monserrate, inaugurated since December 1, offers a picturesque view of the city. Special rates for hill ascent are available, with a ‘Fast Pass’ option to bypass lines and enjoy the Christmas lights from this iconic vantage point.
Additional Christmas Events
Philharmonic Christmas at Teatro Mayor: From December 15 to 20, the Bogotá Philharmonic Orchestra will serenade audiences with a repertoire of traditional country carols.
Christmas Sabana Train: Embark on a journey of lights and color departing from Gran Estación shopping center, riding along the railway tracks to the Usaquén station near Santa Ana Shopping Mall.
Majestic Lights Festival at Bogotá Botanical Garden: Explore a captivating display inspired by the country’s water resources. This latest edition offers a fascinating and educational journey through Colombia’s crucial ecosystems, featuring 120 giant light sculptures representing the flora and fauna of these environments.
As the cityscape becomes a canvas of lights, music, and joy, Bogotá invites everyone to partake in the magic of Christmas. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, where each illuminated street corner tells a story of holiday cheer and community spirit.
‘Constellations’ sparkle above Plaza de Bolívar
The central Christmas show in Bogotá, ‘Constellations,’ promises a celestial experience for citizens. Through lights, lasers, and special effects, spectators will witness constellations like the spectacled bear, the ocelot, the opossum, and more. Under the direction of Mateo Rueda Cerón, over 120 artists, accompanied by the musicians of the Burning Caravan, will grace the stage.
The multimedia show, incorporating traditional and technological elements, establishes a sincere dialogue with the audience, delving into the heart and emphasizing the importance of societal values around care. The citizens will immerse themselves in a visual and emotional journey through the cosmos, enjoying constellations set to the rhythm of Colombia’s popular genres.
Before the show, a web application allows people to create personalized virtual stars, contributing to a majestic art installation projected in Plaza de Bolívar from December 15 to 23. The show will have two daily performances of 30 minutes each: one at 7:00 p.m. and the other at 8:30 p.m. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to engage with the magic of ‘Constellations’ and illuminate your own light of care amidst thousands of Bogotanos.
In the heart of Bogotá, the stars align, and the city radiates with the spirit of Christmas. For the complete schedule of events, visit the official website of the 2023 Christmas Route: rutadelanavidad.com
