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Cartagena’s calendar is anchored by two spikes: a January run of classical music and literature, and a November independence season that turns the whole city into a party. Most events are free or cheap, and several happen in the open plazas of the Walled City, so timing a visit around one is an easy way to add a local layer to a beach trip. For where to base yourself, see where to stay in Cartagena.
Cartagena Events and Festivals in January
Cartagena International Music Festival
Held over about 10 days in early to mid-January, this classical festival stages chamber and orchestral concerts in the churches, courtyards and plazas of the old town, plus free outdoor performances. Tickets for individual concerts run COP 30,000 to COP 120,000 depending on the venue. It draws international soloists and fills hotels, so book accommodation early if your dates overlap. Sort the logistics with the travel tips and FAQ guide.
Hay Festival Cartagena
The last week of January brings the Hay Festival, a Spanish-language literature and ideas festival with talks by novelists, journalists and politicians in venues around the Walled City, including the Adolfo Mejía Theater. Many sessions are free and tickets for paid events start around COP 20,000. It is the city’s biggest intellectual event of the year and a good excuse to visit in an otherwise quiet month. Decide on a base with the neighborhoods breakdown and average hotel rates.
Cartagena Events and Festivals in February
Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria
On February 2, thousands of pilgrims climb La Popa hill to the convent to honor the Virgen de la Candelaria, the city’s patron saint, with a candlelit procession and mass. It is a local religious event rather than a tourist show, but the climb and the view make it a memorable morning if you are in town. For exact monthly rainfall and sea temperatures, see the weather by month data table.
Cartagena Events and Festivals in March
Cartagena International Film Festival (FICCI)
FICCI, Latin America’s oldest film festival, runs for about a week in mid-March, screening Latin American and Caribbean premieres in theaters and free open-air showings on the city walls. Screenings cost roughly COP 15,000 to COP 40,000 and many are free. It is a solid reason to visit during the shoulder season, when prices in Cartagena are lower than peak.
Cartagena Events and Festivals in November
Fiestas de la Independencia
November 11 marks Cartagena’s 1811 declaration of independence, the first Colombian city to break from Spain. The celebration runs the whole month, peaking on November 11 with parades of comparsas (dance troupes), a beauty pageant and street parties. The first two weeks also host the Miss Colombia pageant, a televised national event held at the Convention Center. Book hotels 2 to 3 months ahead; this is the busiest local event of the year and the Walled City attractions stay crowded through the week. Bookmark the full Cartagena guide for the complete overview.
