Origin & history
Columbus Day in Colombia has its roots in the early 20th century, first celebrated in 1914 as the Fiesta de la Raza. The date October 12 marks the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the New World in 1492. The holiday was officially established in Colombia by Law 35 of 1916, originally under the name Día de la Raza, promoted by Spanish-American organizations seeking to honor the shared heritage between Spain and Latin America.
Over time, the interpretation of the holiday has evolved. In Colombia, the focus shifted away from glorifying Columbus to recognizing the fusion of indigenous, African, and European cultures that shape the nation's identity. In 2020, the Colombian government changed the official name to Día de la Diversidad Étnica y Cultural de la Nación Colombiana, reflecting a more inclusive perspective.
The holiday is observed on the nearest Monday to October 12, creating a long weekend known as a 'puente.' This scheduling was established to boost domestic tourism and allow workers a rest day, as per Colombian labor laws.
Customs & traditions
Colombians celebrate Columbus Day with a mix of parades, cultural events, and family gatherings. In major cities like Bogotá and Medellín, there are often street festivals featuring traditional music, dance, and food. Schools and community centers organize events that highlight indigenous and Afro-Colombian heritage, such as craft fairs and storytelling sessions.
Food plays a central role in the celebrations. Typical dishes include arepas, bandeja paisa, and sancocho, which reflect the country's diverse culinary traditions. Many families take advantage of the long weekend to travel to tourist destinations like Cartagena or the Coffee Region, combining the holiday with leisure activities. In rural areas, indigenous communities hold ceremonies to honor their ancestors and celebrate their cultural survival.
Why it is celebrated
Columbus Day in Colombia serves as a day to reflect on the nation's complex history and multicultural identity. It is a time to acknowledge both the positive aspects of cultural blending and the painful legacy of colonization, including the suffering of indigenous peoples and the forced migration of Africans. The holiday promotes dialogue about diversity and inclusion, encouraging Colombians to embrace their mixed heritage.
Today, the holiday is also seen as a celebration of national unity despite differences. It reminds Colombians of their shared roots and the importance of respecting all ethnic groups. While some criticize the holiday for its colonial connotations, the official shift to Día de la Diversidad Étnica y Cultural signals a commitment to a more nuanced recognition of Colombia's pluralistic society.