Introduction: What to Expect at a Colombian Novena
Novenas are one of the most deeply rooted Christmas traditions in Colombia, nine days of celebration that begin on December 16 and culminate on the 24th with Christmas Eve. For a foreigner, participating for the first time can feel like entering a party where everyone knows the rules except you. The music of traditional carols, prayers, aguinaldos (typical sweets), and that unique mix of devotion and joy create an atmosphere that can be overwhelming, but also deeply moving.
I remember my first novena in a neighborhood of Bogotá. I arrived with the shyness of someone who doesn't know if they're truly invited, and I found myself with hugs, laughter, and a grandmother who put a plate of natilla in my hands before I could say "thank you." Novenas are like that: a space where Colombian hospitality shines with special strength, but also where certain cultural codes make the difference between feeling out of place or part of the celebration.
10 Essential Tips for Foreigners
- Don't worry about not knowing the prayers: Most attendees know them by heart since childhood, but no one expects a foreigner to know them. You can follow along by listening or simply maintain a respectful attitude.
- Accept everything offered to you: From tinto (black coffee) to natilla or buñuelos. Refusing food can be interpreted as lack of appreciation for hospitality.
- Dress modestly but comfortably: Novenas are family events. Avoid overly casual clothing (like shorts or flip-flops) but you also don't need to dress formally.
- Arrive a few minutes late: Unlike cultures where punctuality is crucial, in Colombia it's common to arrive 15-30 minutes after the indicated time for social events.
- Participate in the carols: Even if you don't know the lyrics, you can follow the rhythm or learn the chorus. Your effort to participate will be valued.
- Greet everyone individually: Upon arrival, shake hands or give a kiss on the cheek (depending on gender and familiarity) to each person present.
- Offer help: Asking "do you need help with anything?" shows genuine interest in the celebration.
- Speak softly during prayers: Although there are conversation moments, during religious parts keep your tone low.
- Know the basic structure: It usually includes prayers, carols, biblical reading, more carols, and then food and conversation.
- Enjoy without pressure: Colombians understand it's your first time. Your presence is already a gift to them.
What to Bring and What Not to Bring
Bring: A bottle of wine or dessert to contribute to the celebration (especially if invited to a private home), comfortable but presentable clothing, a light jacket (nights can be cool), and above all, an open and curious attitude.
Don't bring: Too revealing clothing (it's a family event), electronic devices that distract you (unless for discreet photos), expectations that it will be a noisy party (although there's joy, there are also moments of reflection), nor the idea that you must understand everything that happens.
How to Behave During the Celebration
Novenas have a particular rhythm. They begin with greetings and light conversation, then move to a more formal moment of prayers and carols, followed by food and socializing. During religious parts, follow others' example: if they stand up, stand up; if they kneel, you can remain seated if you feel uncomfortable kneeling.
A common situation: you're offered an aguinaldo (typical sweet) and don't know what it is. Ask with curiosity: "what flavor is this?" or "what's it called?". People will be delighted to explain Christmas culinary traditions to you.
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If you're invited to a novena in a public space (like a park or community center), the dynamic is more open. You can observe from a certain distance before approaching, and generally someone will welcome you if you show interest.
Frequently Asked Questions and Awkward Situations to Avoid
"Should I bring a gift?" It depends. If it's at a private home, bringing wine, dessert, or flowers is appropriate. If it's in a public space, it's not necessary.
"What if I'm not religious?" You can participate respectfully without compromising your beliefs. Many Colombians attend more for cultural tradition than strict religious devotion.
"Can I bring my children?" Absolutely! Novenas are family events par excellence. Children usually receive special attention and sometimes there are activities for them.
Awkward situations to avoid: Don't criticize religious traditions, don't mock the carols (no matter how repetitive they may seem), don't isolate yourself on your phone during the celebration, and avoid political or controversial topics in subsequent conversation.
Where to Experience Novenas in Colombia
If you're visiting Colombia during December and want to experience an authentic novena, there are several emblematic places where you can immerse yourself in this tradition:
- Bogotá: For 2026, the official Christmas novenas schedule has not yet been published by the Bogotá Mayor's Office. According to official sources, the agenda is usually announced a few weeks or months before December. We recommend monitoring the Mayor's Office portal and the Secretary of Culture, Recreation and Sports from September 2026 for confirmed details, as they traditionally organize novenas in market squares and public spaces from December 16 to 24.
- Medellín: The city offers the Festival de Navidad Medellín Te Quiere with over 120 free activities. For 2026, the official programming is not yet published, but based on previous editions, it includes Christmas squares, parades, caravans, and a Christmas cultural park. Check the official Mayor's Office site and Medellín.travel starting in the last quarter of 2026 for updates.
- Cartagena: For December 2026, the Cartagena Mayor's Office has already defined official Christmas events within its Cultural Agenda 2026. According to official sources, these include the lighting of the "Super Navidad," Christmas market, novenas in neighborhoods, the Festival del Pastel Cartagenero (from December 17 to 26), and activations at the Plaza de los Coches. For specific schedules, consult updates from the Cartagena Secretary of Culture as the date approaches.
- Heritage towns: Colombia has 18 towns declared heritage, such as Villa de Leyva, Barichara, and Salamina, where novenas maintain authentic traditions. For 2026, there is no unified national agenda yet, but according to Caracol Radio, towns like Salamina typically organize novenas from December 16 to 23 in their main squares. Also, in January 2026, Cartagena begins the novena to the Virgen de la Candelaria on January 24, as a prelude to its patron saint festivals. We recommend monitoring municipal mayor's offices and dioceses from August 2026 for specific details.
The Essence of Novenas: More Than a Religious Tradition
In the end, surviving a Colombian novena isn't just about following rules, but opening yourself to an authentic cultural experience. As a lady in Medellín told me after my third novena: "The important thing isn't that you know the prayers, but that you feel the joy of Christmas with us." And she was right. After those nine days, I was no longer a foreigner trying to survive, but someone who had found a little piece of home in an unfamiliar tradition.
Are you going to participate in a novena? Save this guide to consult before going. And remember: the best strategy is to arrive with an open heart and the willingness to be surprised by Colombian warmth in its most Christmas expression.
