Every Dec. 7, Colombia transforms into a country filled with lights, colors, and devotion. The Day of the Little Candles, one of the most deeply rooted celebrations in Colombian culture, officially marks the beginning of the Christmas season and brings together millions of families around a tradition that blends religiosity, cultural heritage, and a profound sense of community. Although its origins are Catholic, over time this festivity has transcended religious beliefs to become a symbol of family unity and national identity.
Religious origin of the Day of the Little Candles in Colombia
The celebration of the Day of the Little Candles dates back to Dec. 8, 1854, when Pope Pius IX proclaimed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. To accompany and celebrate this announcement, believers lit candles and lanterns as a sign of faith. In Colombia, this symbolic gesture was embraced in an especially warm and massive way: On the eve of the proclamation, Dec. 7, families began lighting up windows, balconies, streets, and parks.
Over time, the tradition gained strength across the country, becoming a festive prelude to Christmas. In some departments, such as Antioquia, Boyaca, Nariño, and the Caribbean region, the celebration took on unique features, incorporating music, traditional foods, and neighborhood gatherings.
Although its origin is religious, the Day of the Little Candles is also experienced today from a cultural and social perspective. For many families, lighting candles is a way to give thanks for the year that is coming to an end, make wishes for the future, or remember loved ones. Light becomes a shared language that unites generations.
How Colombians celebrate the Day of the Little Candles
On the night of Dec. 7, from very early on, the streets begin to fill with the characteristic glow of candles and lanterns. Families usually gather in front of their homes to light the first candles, often accompanied by prayers, Christmas music, and special dinners. In neighborhoods and residential complexes, handmade lantern contests are organized — a custom that encourages creativity and community participation.
Lanterns have become a central symbol of this festivity. Made with cellophane paper, wood, and Christmas-themed designs, they decorate sidewalks, parks, and façades. Cities also take part in the celebration: Towns such as Villa de Leyva, Quimbaya, Medellin, and Cali host large-scale events, light parades, and festivals that attract thousands of tourists.
Besides candles, another hallmark of the Day of the Little Candles is its traditional gastronomy. Buñuelos, natilla, hojuelas, empanadas, hot chocolate, and tamales are part of the celebration’s typical menu. In many homes, this day also marks the first gathering of family members returning home for the holiday season.
@ozlo10 🎄 El Alumbrado de la 42 B 🎄 El Guabal Cali – Colombia #navidad #navidad2022 #chirstmas#cali #colombia #video #videoviral #tradicion #tradiciones #tradicionesnavideñas #velitas #velitascolombia #diadelasvelitas ♬ sonido original – OZ
A tradition that endures and evolves
Although the religious meaning of the Day of the Little Candles remains fundamental for thousands of Colombians, the celebration has adapted to modern times. In some places, sustainable alternatives such as electric candles or reusable lanterns are encouraged to reduce fire risks and minimize environmental impact. Prevention campaigns also intensify during this time, inviting citizens to enjoy the night responsibly.
New generations have found in this celebration an opportunity to connect with their cultural roots. On social media, the night fills with photos and videos showing illuminated streets, family gatherings, and personal rituals — evidence of how a tradition more than a century old remains alive in contemporary life.
Beyond individual beliefs, the Day of the Little Candles represents one of the most emotional moments on the Colombian calendar. It is a night when lights not only decorate physical spaces but also symbolize hope, gratitude, and unity. It is, in essence, a celebration that reaffirms the country’s identity and collective spirit.