In a symbolic move that intertwines history and national pride, Colombia has announced that this year’s official July 20 Independence Day military parade will be held for the first time in Santa Marta, rather than in the capital, Bogota, where it is traditionally staged.
The decision confirmed by Colombia’s Minister of Defense Pedro Sanchez, is part of the celebrations marking Santa Marta’s 500th anniversary. “It is a recognition of Santa Marta’s historical importance, not only for its founding five centuries ago but also for its significance in the Colombian independence process” said Minister Sanchez during the official announcement.
The Minister also stated that the event will be attended by President Gustavo Petro, along with the Armed Forces, the National Police, emergency response agencies, and civic delegations. He added that although the official military parade will not take place in the Colombian capital, Bogota, Santa Marta–along with others across the country–will still host a variety of events to commemorate Independence Day, including flag-raising ceremonies, cultural performances, and community parades.
Counting down to Colombia’s Independence Day: Honoring centuries of history and identity
Founded in 1525, Santa Marta is the oldest surviving city in Colombia and one of the oldest in South America. It holds deep historical resonance, being the final resting place of Simon Bolivar, the liberator of much of South America from Spanish rule. Hosting the Independence Day parade there is both a tribute to the past and a reaffirmation of Colombia’s national identity.
The parade scheduled for the morning of Saturday, July 20, will feature a display of Colombia’s military might and civic unity, with marching troops from the Armed Forces and the National Police, as well as firefighters, emergency response teams, and civilian organizations. President Gustavo Petro is expected to deliver remarks highlighting the importance of national unity, sovereignty, and inclusion.
While the exact route through Santa Marta’s streets has yet to be announced, local authorities are working with the Ministry of Defense to ensure public safety and accessibility. Thousands of residents and tourists are expected to line in the streets to witness the spectacle.
Colombia’s July 20 celebrations: what’s on the official agenda
As Colombia begins the countdown to celebrate its Independence Day, new details have emerged about the official events planned in Santa Marta, the host city for this year’s national military parade.
According to the Ministry of Defense, the logistical deployment of the parade will involve 150 soldiers from the Military Police Battalion No.2 of the Second Brigade. These troops will assist with security operations before, during, and after the event.
One of the signature events will be the “Festival Casa por la Paz,” organized by the Ministry of Culture, Arts, and Knowledge. Scheduled from July 18 to 20, the festival will feature over 40 artistic performances, 120 grassroots economic initiatives, and the participation of at least 200 artists.
The festival seeks to highlight local diversity and talent, bringing a strong cultural and community-oriented component to the national holiday.
Interestingly, this marks only the sixth time in Colombian history that the July 20 military parade has taken place outside Bogota as previous host cities include: San Andres (2007, 2008, 2009), Leticia, Amazonas (2013) and Tame, Arauca (2003). Santa Marta’s turn as host in 2025 reinforces its symbolic importance in Colombian history.
In the lead-up to Colombia’s Independence Day celebrations, another key event is set to take place in Rionegro, Antioquia. According to the Minister of Defense, Colombia will host the International Aeronautics and Space Fair (F-AIR Colombia), between July 9 and 13.
This large-scale event, considered one of the most important of its kind in Latin America, will bring together aerospace and defense companies, aviation experts, air force delegations, and members of the public for five days of exhibitions, flight demonstrations, and forums.
The fair is expected to showcase Colombia’s technological capabilities and international partnerships in the aerospace sector, while also serving as a prelude to the country’s July 20 Independence Day commemorations.
Spectators will also be treated to high-impact parachute demonstrations. From altitudes ranging between 5,000 and 10,000 feet (approximately 1,524 to 3,048 meters), elite skydiving teams will perform synchronized jumps that combine precision, color, and spectacle.
Among the featured performers are The Wings of Blue, the official parachute demonstration team of the United States Air Force, and Aguila de Gules, the elite team from the Colombian Air Force (FAC). Their aerial displays will include acrobatic formations. Streaming ribbons, and multi-colored smoke effects, captivating attendees with a vivid showcase of skill, coordination, and international cooperation. These acts are expected to blend entertainment with military excellence in the skies of Rionegro.
This year’s edition promises not only state-of-the-art air shows, but also strategic dialogues around innovation, defense and space exploration, positioning Colombia as a growing player in the region’s aeronautical field.