The Carnival of La 44, also known as the “Carnival of the Curb” (Carnaval del Bordillo), is one of the most authentic and deeply rooted carnivals in Barranquilla. With a local and community-focused approach, this celebration rescues and preserves the folkloric and cultural traditions of the Colombian Caribbean, allowing the active participation of residents, neighborhoods, and folk groups.
It differs from the official Carnival on Vía 40 because of its popular character, where the festival is experienced “from the curb,” meaning at street level, without grandstands and in direct contact with the community.
The Carnival of La 44 begins on January 25 with pre-carnival events, and the official Carnival of La 44 2026 takes place from February 15 to 17, featuring a program that moves through traditional sectors of the city.
A Queen for El Carnaval de La 44
Like the Barranquilla Carnival, the Carnival of La 44 has its own queen, chosen to represent local neighborhoods and communities. Her coronation is an event filled with music, dance, and joy, highlighting the popular identity and the spirit of the people of Barranquilla.
In 2026, the sovereign of the so-called Carnival of the Curb is Sharon Hurtado Esquiaqui, an 18-year-old who embodies the popular and community-driven character of this celebration. As Queen of the Carnival of La 44, she symbolizes the joy of the people, neighborhood identity, and the collective essence that distinguishes this traditional festivity.
Beyond her representative role, Hurtado carries out key functions within the carnival: she serves as a cultural ambassador for the Carnival of the Curb, leads symbolic events, takes part in parades and folkloric activities, promotes community participation, and helps keep alive the popular traditions that have shaped the identity of the Carnival of La 44 over the years.
The Battle of Flowers of Remembrance “Sonia Osorio”
The central event of this carnival is the opening parade, the Battle of Flowers of Remembrance “Sonia Osorio,” which takes place along the entire Carrera 44. More than 270 folkloric groups participate, including 200 from Barranquilla and over 70 from different regions of Colombia. Additionally, around 400 costumes can be admired in a true tribute to the folklore of both the Caribbean and the entire country.
The rhythm of the parade is marked by the flauta de millo, the tamboras, and the papayeras, essential musical elements that give the celebration its identity and joy. This event has managed to transcend generations, gaining popularity among millennials, who have contributed to its growing presence on social media.
Highlights of the 2026 carnival of La 44
Collective Flag-Raising Ceremony:
A symbolic act that marks the official start of the carnival, with the community taking part in raising the festival’s flag.
Guacherna of the Carnival of La 44 (Guacherna del Bordillo) – February 6:
A community version of the traditional Esthercita Forero Guacherna, featuring lanterns, music, and comparsas parading through the streets.
Gran Parada Carlos Franco – February 15:
The central event with the participation of comparsas, folk groups, and traditional costumes that highlight the Caribbean’s cultural heritage.
Conquest of the Carnival Parade – February 17:
The official closing event of the Carnival of La 44, held on Carnival Tuesday. It is a popular neighborhood parade that travels through southeastern Barranquilla, starting at Calle 44 and Carrera 8 and passing through neighborhoods such as Las Palmas, Santa Helena, Las Nieves, and Simon Bolivar.