The Christmas season in Bogotá is in full swing with the turning-on of the sparkling alumbrado along streets and in neighborhoods. With an end-of-year calendar that includes the night bicycle ride – Ciclovía Nocturna – on Thursday, December 15, residents of the festive capital will be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Navidad. The date also coincides with the 48th anniversary since the world’s most extensive public network of paths was started.
Among the many visually dazzling events along the 2022 Ruta de la Navidad is a trip up to Monserrate where the Church to the Fallen Christ is the centerpiece of a light spectacular inspired in the country’s biodiversity. Tours take place every Wednesday at 6:00 pm and 7:30 pm.
From the evening backdrop of the city to the silver screen, the district’s Cinemateca de Bogotá has rolled out a special program of films for youngsters and children. So, it’s never late to catch that last movie of the year with your kids!
At the heart of Bogotá’s La Candelaria, the cultural foundation Gilberto Alzate Avendaño (Cra 3 No.10-27), is hosting a glass-blowing festival and gastronomic showcase of Colombian foods. An obligatory stop when exploring the capital’s historic district.
With novenas in public parks, outdoor film screenings and alternative cultural events taking place in each locality, the youth orchestra of the Bogotá Philharmonic (OFB) is offering a cycle of free concerts, and on Thursday, December 15, will perform inside the old bull ring Plaza de Toros Santa María (2:00 pm). The OFB will deliver its annual Christmas concert with a repertoire of villancicos on Saturday, December 17 (5:00 pm) at Teatro Mayor Julio Mario Santo Domingo. Joining a live manger on this renowned stage is the night’s special guest and stand-up comedian Andrés López.
Here, some of the other festivities taking place in Bogotá during December.
“The Tree of Abundance” is this year’s major production and will stage 200 artists to an original score by the Bogotá Philharmonic Orchestra. The performances in Plaza de Bolívar include an interactive stage, fireworks display, and mapping on the façade of the Mayoralty. There will be two daily functions from December 15 to 23, at 7:00 p.m., and 8:30 p.m. Admission is free.
The amusement park Salitre Mágico is the venue for the first version of Christmas Fest. Running until December 30, the general public can enjoy the park’s main attractions, as well as musical shows and Christmas choirs set among artificial snow. Christmas Fest is open to the public Monday to Sunday from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Tickets are availble at the box office or through Salitre Mágico website: www.salitremagico.com.co
