Barranquilla Carnival 2026 – Full Travel and Events Guide

Carnival 2026 Summary

• Carnival Dates 2026: Saturday, February 14 to Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
• Main Events: Battle of the Flowers (Batalla de Flores), Great Parade (Gran Parada), concerts, and more.
• Tips: Wear comfortable clothing, use sunscreen, buy tickets in advance, arrive early, and use public transportation.
• What to Do: Enjoy parades, attend concerts, try local food, and join in the dances and street performances.

Barranquilla Carnival 2026 is coming! 🎭
You can already feel the flavor, the music, and the joy of Barranquilla Carnival 2026! This year, the celebration promises to be bigger, more colorful, and more exciting than ever. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, this is your chance.

Coming to Barranquilla Carnival means diving into a tradition full of culture, folklore, rhythm, and Caribbean flavor. We want you to live every moment to the fullest—don’t miss a single parade, concert, or celebration.

That’s why this complete guide brings you EVERYTHING you need to enjoy the Carnival the right way: dates, events, tickets, concerts, viewing stands, where to stay, what to eat, and much more.

Get ready to dance your heart out and lose yourself in this one-of-a-kind celebration!

Your Guide to Barranquilla Carnival 2026

Carnival Dates for Barranquilla 2026

The Barranquilla Carnival 2026 will be celebrated in February, from Saturday, February 14 to Tuesday, February 17. Each of these days will be packed with parades, music, and tradition—but the party actually begins weeks earlier with a vibrant and intense Carnival season full of events.

The city starts to come alive with the Reading of the Proclamation (Lectura del Bando), the symbolic act that officially kicks off the Carnival season.

From that moment on, Barranquilla is transformed: houses, streets, shopping malls, and iconic landmarks fill with color, Carnival characters, marimondas, garabatos, and traditional masks. Everything reflects the joyful, creative, and vibrant spirit that makes the Barranquilla Carnival one of the biggest and most unforgettable festivals in Colombia and the world.

The Most Important Events During the 4 Days of Barranquilla Carnival 2026

Get ready to enjoy the legendary parades that have captivated locals and visitors for generations! The Barranquilla Carnival 2026 will be a four-day celebration filled with color, music, and pure Caribbean joy.

The iconic Vía 40 will once again become the heart of the Carnival, hosting the most spectacular parades: the traditional Battle of the Flowers, the high-energy Great Parade of Troupes, and the dazzling Fantasy Parade. Each one showcases the essence of the region’s folklore and creative spirit.

But the party doesn’t stop there. Other key locations such as Carrera 44, Calle 17, and Calle 84 will also come alive with their own parades, where neighborhoods, folklore groups, and dance schools fill the streets with music, rhythm, and tradition.

Carnival Saturday – February 14, 2026

🎊 Battle of the Flowers – Vía 40:
One of the most anticipated events of the Carnival. Held on the iconic Vía 40, this is the most spectacular float parade, full of art, color, and creativity. The Carnival Queen and King Momo lead this explosion of joy, joined by hundreds of dancers, troupes, folklore groups, and orchestras that fill the streets with music and tradition. The grandstands along the route are packed with spectators enjoying vibrant floats, special guests, beauty queens, and performers from national and international competitions. 📍 Note: This parade now starts at 12:00 p.m.

🤴 King Momo Parade – Calle 17:
Also on Saturday, the charismatic King Momo takes center stage in his own parade along Calle 17. This colorful event features dance troupes, traditional dances, and popular groups who join this iconic figure to bring humor and flavor to the Carnival.

💃 Dance the Street! – Carrera 50:
One of the most vibrant street parties of the Carnival. Baila la Calle is an outdoor celebration where music, food, and folklore come together for a truly unique experience. Starting at 6:00 p.m., enjoy live performances, folk dances, street theater, local food, and artisan markets. A must for both tourists and locals who want to dance the night away in the heart of the city.

🎭 Carnavalada – Sagrado Corazón Park:
A family-friendly and cultural event combining street theater, music, dance, and folk showcases. Perfect for experiencing the artistic and creative side of the Barranquilla Carnival.
📍 Location: Sagrado Corazón Park, on weekend afternoons during Carnival.

🌟 Sonia Osorio Battle of the Flowers – Carrera 44:
A true explosion of folklore and culture. This parade pays tribute to the legendary choreographer Sonia Osorio and gathers over 100 local and national dance groups. The parade begins at La Troja, follows Carrera 44, and ends at Plaza de la Paz.
Enjoy traditional characters like marimondas, congos, cumbia, mapalé, and more in a magical afternoon full of rhythm and tradition.

🎶 Carnival 2026 Concerts:
During Carnival, the entire city becomes one big stage. National and international artists perform at hotels, nightclubs, stadiums, and open-air venues. There’s something for everyone—salsa, vallenato, champeta, electronic music, and more.
🎟️ Check the official schedule for dates, artists, and ticket info. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy live music the Barranquilla way!

🪗 Southeast Folklore Showcase – Las Nieves Neighborhood:
A true cultural gem. At Calle 26 and Carrera 12, the Las Nieves neighborhood comes alive with this community folk showcase, where locals proudly share their traditions, dances, and art with the world.

Carnival Sunday – February 15, 2026

💃 Great Parade of Tradition and Folklore – Vía 40:
A vibrant parade that pays tribute to our cultural roots. Traditional troupes dazzle the crowd with iconic dances like cumbia, garabato, mapalé, congo, and more. Feel the power of the drum and the joy of Caribbean identity in a folkloric show that makes Vía 40 come alive.

🎺 Orchestra Festival – Romelio Martínez Stadium:
One of the most iconic events of Carnival. The best local, national, and international orchestras compete in an unforgettable music battle for the coveted Golden Congo award. Get ready for a day full of rhythm, emotion, and Caribbean flavor. Dancing is simply unavoidable!

🎉 Dance the Street & Orchestra Festival – Carrera 50:
Starting at 6:00 p.m., enjoy a free, open-air party where live music, folk dances, letanías (humorous poetic chants), traditional food, and local crafts come together. A popular and family-friendly space to experience Carnival in the streets with friends and loved ones.

🗣️ Letanías Festival – Barrio Abajo:
Oral tradition, satire, and social commentary at its finest. Letanías groups parade through the streets sharing witty verses and clever rhymes that reflect the Carnival’s popular voice. This event is full of authenticity, irreverence, and true Barranquilla spirit.

😂 Comedy Gathering – Olaya Park:
Get ready to laugh out loud in this special celebration of Caribbean humor. Local and regional comedians take the stage for an afternoon of laughter and family-friendly fun in a relaxed, open-air environment.

🥁 Grand Parade of Safeguarding and Tradition ‘Carlos Franco’:
Organized by the Atlantic Folklore Groups Association, this parade honors the authentic folkloric richness of the region.
The route starts at Olaya Park, continues along Carrera 21, and ends on the Vía de la Cordialidad, showcasing the purest expressions of traditional dances, costumes, and cultural heritage.

🎶 Carnival 2026 Concerts – Across the City:
From clubs and nightspots to hotels, stadiums, and public squares, Barranquilla comes alive with live music. Expect concerts for every taste—salsa, vallenato, champeta, tropical, electronic, and more.
Check the official schedule for dates, locations, artists, and ticket details. The party never stops!

🎭 Carnavalada – Sagrado Corazón Park:
A cultural explosion blending theater, dance, troupes, and music in a family-friendly, open space. Perfect for immersing yourself in the artistic side of Carnival and spending a unique afternoon in the creative heart of the city.

Monday Carnival – February 16, 2026

💃 Great Parade of Dance Troupes – Vía 40:
Experience the most diverse show of the Carnival at the Great Parade of Dance Troupes. Folkloric, fantasy, and urban groups take over Vía 40 with the rhythm of drums, flutes, Afro-Colombian dances, Brazilian beats, Hawaiian vibes, and modern fusions. A dazzling event full of creativity, vibrant costumes, and joyful energy. 📍 Starts at noon – Viewing stands available

🎼 Traditional Music Festival “Carnival in Barranquilla” – Carrera 50:
A celebration of our musical roots. Enjoy live performances by traditional flute players (gaiteros), drummers, cumbia and mapalé groups, as well as contemporary folkloric ensembles.
Perfect for those who want to feel the soulful rhythms of the Colombian Caribbean. 📍 From 6:00 p.m.

👧 Safeguarding Parade & Children’s Carnival – Calle 84:
A celebration full of charm, young talent, and cultural heritage. Children and youth from traditional troupes, heritage dances, and folk schools participate in this colorful parade. It’s part of the effort to protect and preserve the traditions that make Barranquilla’s Carnival so iconic. 📍 Calle 84 – Morning or afternoon schedule to be confirmed

🎨 Carnavalada – Sagrado Corazón Park:
A cultural day for the whole family. Experience Carnival through theater, dance, music, and visual arts in an open, creative space. Ideal for those looking for a more alternative, artistic, and intimate side of the celebration. 📍 From the afternoon into the evening

Tuesday Carnival – February 17, 2026

⚰️ Joselito Parade – Carrera 54 (Barrio Prado to Barrio Abajo):
Experience one of the most iconic Carnival traditions: the Joselito Parade. Along Carrera 54, troupes and costumed participants reenact the symbolic “death” and “rebirth” of Joselito Carnaval, the beloved character who embodies the spirit of the celebration. 📍 From Barrio Prado to Barrio Abajo – Starts at noon

🖤 84th Street Carnival – Joselito’s Funeral:
Calle 84 becomes the stage for the final big celebration of the Carnival, organized by the Atlantic Foundation of Art and Folklore. Symbolic “widows” mourn Joselito, while colorful troupes dance through the streets in a lively farewell full of tradition, emotion, and Caribbean flavor. 📍 Calle 84 – Free entry

🎊 The Conquest of Carnival – Carrera 8 to Barrio Simón Bolívar:
A joyful, high-energy parade that takes over the southeastern part of the city. The Conquest of Carnival moves along Carrera 8 toward Barrio Simón Bolívar, featuring community troupes, popular costumes, urban beats, and living folklore. This event honors the working-class neighborhoods that keep the Carnival’s traditions alive. 📍 Perfect for those seeking a more local and authentic experience

🎨 Carnavalada – Sagrado Corazón Park:
Art and culture return to this space for one last celebration, closing out the Carnival with outdoor theater, dance, music, and creative expression. A peaceful, artistic, and family-friendly way to say goodbye to the Carnival season. 📍 Sagrado Corazón Park – Afternoon into the evening

🎟️ Viewing Stands and Mini-Stands Tickets – Barranquilla Carnival 2026

If you want to experience the Carnival parades the right way—with a privileged view—the viewing stands (palcos) and mini-stands (minipalcos) are your best option. Every year, thousands of people secure their spots in advance to enjoy the most important parades along the iconic Vía 40, and 2026 will be no exception.

🎟️ Where to Buy Viewing Stands and Mini-Stands Tickets?

Official tickets are sold exclusively through TuBoleta and authorized points of sale. Buy early! These spots sell out quickly—especially the stands in the best viewing locations.

🚫 Avoid scams: Do not purchase tickets from unauthorized websites or resellers. Make sure to secure your experience through official channels only.

🥁 Which Events Include Viewing Stands and Mini-Stands?

Viewing stands and mini-stands are available for the three main Carnival parades held along Vía 40:

• Battle of the Flowers – Saturday, February 14
• Great Parade of Tradition and Folklore – Sunday, February 15
• Fantasy Parade – Monday, February 16

🎫 Important: For Saturday (Battle of the Flowers), tickets are only sold as part of a three-day combo package (Saturday, Sunday, and Monday). For Sunday and Monday, individual tickets may be available—even directly at the “palco”.

🤔 What’s the Difference Between a Palco and a Mini-Palco?

🏟️ Palcos

• Elevated structures with excellent visibility.
• Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Some VIP areas include a canopy, bathrooms, and food & beverage service (depending on the operator).
• Ideal for large groups, tourists, or those seeking maximum comfort.
• Located on the shaded side of the route.

🎉 Minipalcos

• Smaller and more affordable than traditional stands.
• Also elevated, but with lower height or smaller capacity.
• Comfortable locations with good views.
• Perfect for couples, small groups, or families.
• Located on the sunny side of the route.

💺 Chairs (Sillas)

• Ground-level setup with individual plastic chairs.
• Closer to the parade route.
• More budget-friendly option, but not elevated.
• Located on the sunny side.
• Arrive early, as there are very few chairs available.

🕺 Standing Areas (Zonas de Pie)

• ⚠️ Caution: These areas may be less secure and more prone to pickpocketing.
• Designated areas alongside the route with no seating.
• You must arrive early to secure a good spot.
• Ideal for those who want to move around, dance, and enjoy the party freely.

🎶 Barranquilla Carnival 2026 Concerts

Although the full official lineup has not yet been released, every year Barranquilla transforms into a massive musical stage with large-scale concerts featuring top national and international artists. From performances in clubs and stadiums to free open-air events, the city vibrates with the rhythm of Carnival.

🎟️ Check this guide regularly for updates and official ticket links.

🔥 Rraditional Carnival Concerts

• Dominguísimo – Salón Jumbo, Country Club: A traditional Sunday night event filled with music, dancing, and classic Carnival vibes.
• Coronation of the Carnival Royalty: A festive and symbolic event where the Carnival Queen and King Momo are crowned, usually featuring musical performances and dance shows.
• Carnival Metroconcert – Saturday, February 14: One of the biggest musical events of the Carnival, featuring major artists and thousands of fans.
• “Prado es Prado” – Hotel El Prado – Saturday, February 14: A glamorous night of music, dance, and celebration at the iconic El Prado Hotel.
• Moys a la Calle: Three full days of non-stop party with surprise artists and outdoor stages. A street closed off exclusively for dancing!
• Country Club of Barranquilla – Saturday, February 14: Exclusive Carnival party with renowned orchestras and themed events in one of the city’s most elegant venues.
• Riosónica 2026: An alternative music festival by the river featuring emerging bands, DJs, and electronic music. A must for indie and electro lovers.
• Berbetronik: A vibrant fusion of tropical and electronic sounds in a unique party atmosphere.
• Baila la Calle – Carrera 50: A street concert and cultural event with live music, folklore, local food, and art. Open to everyone!

🎟️ Where to buy tickets for the events and concerts of the Barranquilla Carnival 2026?

If you’re planning to experience the Barranquilla Carnival 2026, make sure you do it right from the start! Buying your tickets through official and authorized sources is essential to avoid scams and ensure access to the best events.

Tickets for parades, viewing stands, concerts, and special activities will be available through various trusted channels. Many hotels in the city offer this service for their guests, and travel agencies often include them as part of their tour packages.

📢 Reminder: Tickets for the most popular events sell out quickly, so be sure to buy in advance.

✅ Official websites where you can get your tickets:

• www.tuboleta.com
• www.latiquetera.com
• www.eventu.co
• www.taqui-co.com

🔔 Stay tuned to the official channels of the Barranquilla Carnival, as they will announce when ticket sales begin and which are the only authorized points of purchase. Avoid buying from suspicious websites or resellers.

Get ready in advance and don’t miss a single moment of this unforgettable celebration!

Key Tips to Enjoy the Barranquilla Carnival 2026

To make sure your experience is safe, fun, and hassle-free, here are essential tips to enjoy Colombia’s biggest celebration:

🎟️ Tickets & Reservations

• Buy your tickets only through authorized sellers, such as TuBoleta.com and official websites. This helps you avoid scams and inflated prices.
• Book in advance: hotels, viewing stands, tours, and transportation sell out quickly during Carnival season.
• Check event times and arrive early. The city gets very congested, and many streets are closed.

🪑 Viewing Stand or Mini-Stand? Choose What Fits Your Plan

• Along Vía 40, where the main parades happen (Saturday, Sunday, and Monday), you can enjoy the festivities from:
  Viewing Stands (Palcos): Elevated, covered structures with services like bathrooms, drinks, and excellent visibility.
  Mini-Stands (Minipalcos): Located at street level on the sunny side. More affordable, still comfortable.

• 🎫 Tickets are often sold as a three-day combo, especially for Saturday’s Battle of the Flowers. If you only plan to attend on Sunday or Monday, you may find individual tickets at lower prices at the entrances of some stands.

🧳 Safety & Comfort

• Use a small backpack or bag with a zipper, and keep it in front of you. Carry only what you need.
• Avoid wearing jewelry or valuables. Dress in light, comfortable, closed shoes and clothes.
• Stay with companions whenever possible, and be alert in large crowds.

🚌 Transport & Mobility

• Plan your transportation ahead of time. During major events, public transport is limited and finding taxis can be difficult.
• Always ask for directions from official staff, police officers, or your hotel’s staff.

💸 Smart Spending

• Always ask the price before buying, especially from street vendors.
• Commercial establishments must display a price list. Ask to see it before purchasing to avoid surprises.

🎊 Joy & Tolerance

• Be ready for foam, cornstarch, water, and laughter—it’s all part of the game and tradition.
• The cheerful chaos is part of the magic of this cultural celebration. Relax, go with the flow, and enjoy the party!

Pre Carnivals 2026

Here are the most representative events expected for the pre-carnival of 2026:

• Lectura del Bando (Reading of the Proclamation): A folkloric ceremony that officially marks the beginning of Carnival. It includes the symbolic handover of the city keys and a high-level artistic show. Scheduled for January 17, 2026.
• Noche de Tambó (Night of Drums): Traveling events filled with drums, cumbia, folkloric groups, and popular Caribbean rhythms.
• Coronation of Children’s Kings and Popular Queens: Celebrations full of music and tradition in neighborhoods, shopping centers, and city squares.
• Festival of Cumbia, Letanías, and Decimeros: Cultural activities that highlight the oral and musical traditions of the Caribbean.
• Events at the Malecón del Río: The Great Malecón becomes a stage for exhibitions, folkloric shows, talks, concerts, and more.
• Guacherna Gay and Guacherna Fluvial: Joyful, inclusive, and vibrant parades that showcase the diversity of Carnival.
• Festival of Comedies and Carnival Thrones: Spaces for humor, satire, popular theater, and local coronations.
• Río de Tradiciones (River of Traditions): Itinerant shows that bring Carnival to every corner of the city.
• Neighborhood Parades: Such as La Noche del Bordillo, Carnaval del Sur Oriente, and La Tardecita del Bordillo.
• Events in nearby towns: Municipalities like Soledad, Santo Tomás, Sabanagrande, and Puerto Colombia also join the celebration.

📌 Recommendation: Stay tuned for the official calendar, usually published by Carnaval S.A.S. between November and December of the previous year.

👉 This guide will be updated as soon as the 2026 program is confirmed.

The Most Important Events of the Barranquilla 2026 Pre-Carnival

Reading of the Proclamation (Lectura del Bando):
It will take place on January 17, 2026. This folkloric show full of tradition and music officially opens the Carnival festivities through the symbolic delivery of the city’s keys and the proclamation reading.

La Guacherna:
It will be held on February 7, 2026, the Saturday before the Barranquilla Carnival. The parade will start at Carrera 44 with Calle 70, continue down Carrera 44 until Calle 53, then turn left onto Calle 53 until Carrera 54, turn right and finish at the Casa del Carnaval.

Carnival Queen’s Coronation:
A tribute to dance and its passionate performers, featuring 400 dancers on stage and the special participation of renowned artists.

Queen of the Barranquilla Carnival 2026

Michelle Char Fernández is the Queen of the Barranquilla Carnival 2026. She is a 23 years old, and was unanimously chosen by the Board of Directors as the 90th Queen of the Barranquilla Carnival 2026. The announcement was made by Mayor Alejandro Char on Friday, August 15, 2025

King Momo of the Barranquilla Carnival 2026

We’ll tell you very soon.

🎭 Children’s Carnival 2026

The Barranquilla Carnival is also for the little ones!

Children are the soul and the future of the Barranquilla Carnival.
Their participation not only preserves our traditions, but also adds a unique touch of tenderness, creativity, and enthusiasm to the festivities. In the Children’s Carnival, the little ones become the stars of parades full of fantasy, music, and color, showing that this celebration is truly for the whole family.

During these days, schools, cultural centers, dance academies, and folkloric groups organize troupes, floats, and shows designed especially for children. They dress up, dance, laugh, and proudly showcase their talent in every corner of the city.

There is also a wide variety of children’s programming in spaces such as the Barranquilla Zoo, shopping malls, parks, and social clubs, where recreational afternoons, costume contests, and cultural activities allow kids to experience the carnival in their own way.

🎉 Tradition is inherited and celebrated as a family. In clubs and neighborhoods, it is common to see parades organized by parents, grandparents, and children, reaffirming the family spirit of Barranquilla’s carnival.

🧥 And what about the costumes? In department stores, seasonal boutiques, and traditional local shops, you’ll find costumes for all ages and tastes: cumbiamberos, marimondas, negritas puloy, superheroes, and much more.

🎈 Recommended Events for Children – Barranquilla Carnival 2026

Children’s Carnival Parade: A grand parade with troupes and floats led by the Children’s Kings of Carnival 2026, where kids of all ages take part. A must-see for families!

Battle of Flowers, Great Parade, and Fantasy Parade: Although these events are designed for the general public, children over 7 years old can enter the boxes and mini-boxes with an accompanying adult. If you’re attending with children, Sunday or Tuesday are recommended, as these days tend to be less crowded than Saturday.

Joselito’s Burial – Calle 84 (Carnival Tuesday): A fun parade full of humor and tradition, where children can also take part, either dressed up in costumes or simply as spectators.

The 2026 Barranquilla Carnival is a celebration for everyone, and children not only have their own space, but they also light it up with their joy!

Kings of the Children’s Carnival 2026

We will inform you very soon.

Why come to Barranquilla for Carnival?

The Barranquilla Carnival is much more than a party: it’s a unique cultural experience that connects you with the joy, tradition, and heart of the Colombian Caribbean. During these days, the city transforms into a vibrant stage where music, dance, color, and folklore take over every corner.

Coming to the Carnival means immersing yourself in spectacular parades, unforgettable concerts, dazzling costumes, and a collective energy that touches everyone. But the experience doesn’t end there: beyond the Carnival, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the nearby beaches, tour historical landmarks, explore attractions such as the Gran Malecón, Ventana al Mundo, or the Carnival Museum, and taste the delicious local cuisine.

Barranquilla awaits you with open arms to live an unforgettable celebration and discover everything this vibrant city has to offer.

✨ Let your soul dance at Carnival 2026!

What places should I visit in Barranquilla during Carnival?

In addition to enjoying the Carnival parades and concerts, take advantage of your visit to see some of the most iconic places in Barranquilla and its surrounding areas:

• 🌊 Malecón del Río: A perfect walk with views of the majestic Magdalena River. Enjoy gastronomy, art, and plenty of photo spots.
• 🌴 Malecón de Puerto Colombia: Just minutes from the city, this spot offers a fresh sea breeze, restaurants, and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
• 🦆 Ciénaga de Mallorquín: A natural ecosystem where you can take boat tours and observe birds in their habitat.
• 🏖️ Puerto Mocho: A peaceful, non-touristy beach where you can enjoy the sea in a relaxed, local atmosphere.
• 🗿 Iconic sculptures and monuments: The Window to the World, Shakira’s statue, and the Shark’s Fin are must-sees.
• 🚤 Tour on the Magdalena River: Experience a trip along Colombia’s most important river.
• 🎭 Carnival Museum: Dive into the history, tradition, and magic of Barranquilla’s Carnival.
• 👉 Read the full article here: 10 Must-See Places in Barranquilla.

These places complete your Barranquilla experience with nature, art, history, and a wealth of Caribbean identity. Don’t miss them!

ORAGANIZA TU VIAJE AL CARNAVAL 2026

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🏨 ¿Dónde hospedarse durante el Carnaval de Barranquilla 2026?

Si estás planeando venir al Carnaval de Barranquilla 2026, una de las decisiones más importantes es elegir dónde hospedarte. Mi recomendación es quedarte en un hotel al norte de la ciudad, ya que es una zona más organizada, segura y cercana a muchos de los principales eventos, centros comerciales, restaurantes y sitios turísticos.

In the north, you’ll find options for all budgets, from luxurious hotels with all the amenities to more affordable accommodations, perfect for groups of friends or families.

Here are some of the most recommended hotels in Barranquilla to enjoy Carnival:

Hoteles top

1. Hotel El Prado : This historic Barranquilla hotel is full of tradition and charm. Located close to the parades, it also hosts one of the best Carnival parties in town. For convenience and proximity, it’s an excellent choice.
2. Dann Carlton: Perfectly located right in front of the Buenavista Shopping Center, where you can easily walk and explore the best malls in the city: Buenavista 1 and 2, Mall Plaza (all three interconnected by a bridge), and Plaza del Parque. The latter features nightclubs, bars, casinos, and restaurants.
3. Crowne Plaza – Conveniently located next to Mall Plaza, across from Plaza del Parque, and diagonal to the two Buenavista malls. You can also stroll along the Buenavista boulevard.
4. Estelar Alto Prado – An ideal option if you’re attending the Country Club party, as it’s located right next to it. Across the street, you’ll find Jumbo supermarket, restaurants, cafés, and Villa Country Mall. It’s a beautiful, central area with easy transportation.
5. Hotel Marriott – If you’re looking for luxury and comfort, the Marriott is the newest and most modern hotel in the city. While it’s slightly farther away, transportation in Barranquilla is affordable and easy to find.
6. Barranquilla Plaza y NH Collection Royal Smartsuites: Located in the city’s most exclusive restaurant district. An excellent option thanks to their prime location.
7. Washington Plaza y Four Points by Sheraton : Situated right next to Washington Park, surrounded by restaurants and bars.
8. Movich Buro 51: A very elegant hotel located just a few blocks from shopping centers. It features an incredible spa!
9. Holiday Inn Express y Hilton Garden Inn: Located in the most exclusive area of Barranquilla, close to the Buenavista and Viva shopping centers. Perfect for comfort, safety, and excellent location.

Hoteles más sencillos

• Hampton by Hilton, Radisson Hotel Diamond, Ibis Barranquilla, Wyndham Garden all located near the clinics and medical district, and very close to Viva shopping mall. They are less luxurious options but very well located.
• f you prefer more budget-friendly hotels but still want great locations, you can explore Apartahotel Torre del Prado in the old part of the city (Barrio El Prado). In the northern shopping area, you’ll find Hotel OR Suites (right next to Movich Buro 51), and Hotel Windsor on 84th Street, where you’ll find countless bars and pubs. (Some pre-Carnival parades and the “Death of Joselito” also pass along 84th Street).

📌 Tip: Book in advance! During Carnival season everything fills up very quickly, and the best places sell out first. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: RESERVE YOUR HOTEL NOW.

What is the best way to get to Barranquilla?

Most visitors arrive in Barranquilla via Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport. If you’re arriving from Santa Marta or Cartagena, you can take a door-to-door service.

Transportation for Carnival 2026

You’ll find many transportation options in Barranquilla, including public buses, taxis, Uber, and Didi. The most recommended are taxis ordered directly from your hotel, ride-hailing apps, or official taxi stands, where the driver is registered and responsible for the passenger.

In Barranquilla, the platforms Uber, Didi, and InDriver are available.

Another option is renting a car in Barranquilla, but keep in mind that Carnival events have very limited parking. Also, remember that if you plan to drink alcohol, you should not drive. Be aware of the pico y placa (traffic restriction) system. Rent a car here

How to dress for Carnival 2026 events?

Barranquilla is a warm, lively, and vibrant city, so to attend the 2026 Carnival events, it’s best to dress in comfortable, cool, and colorful clothing. It’s recommended to wear shorts or Bermuda shorts, lightweight T-shirts or shirts, comfortable sneakers or closed-toe shoes (avoid sandals at large events), a hat or cap, sunglasses, and, of course, plenty of sunscreen.

It’s also key to bring a small backpack or fanny pack for essentials and stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle. And if you want to match the atmosphere even more, add masks, flowers, necklaces, feathers, or any detail that reflects the joy of Carnival.

We have the perfect printed T-shirts for Carnival, with designs inspired by folklore and the Barranquilla identity, ideal for going with friends, standing out in the crowd, or simply enjoying the party to the fullest. Get yours before they sell out!

🍽️ Traditional Food of the Barranquilla Carnival

The Barranquilla Carnival isn’t just about music, dancing, and color… it’s also about flavor! It’s the perfect excuse to indulge in the delicious coastal cuisine—full of tradition, seasoning, and joy.

Start your day like a true Barranquillero: with a hot arepa de huevo (egg-stuffed corn cake), some crispy chicharrón (pork crackling), or a classic Caribbean-style empanada.

For lunch, you can’t miss a fried mojarra (local fish), a hearty bowl of guandú or hen sancocho (traditional stew), or a savory posta negra (slow-cooked beef in sweet sauce) with coconut rice and fried plantains. A true feast of Caribbean flavors!

And for an afternoon snack? Nothing beats a cold frozomalt (frozen malt drink), a chuzo desgranado (grilled meat skewer with corn and toppings), a stuffed carimañola (yuca fritter), or some juicy butifarras (mini sausages) with yuca cake.

Here’s a list of some typical Carnival delights you must try:

• Arepa de huevo
• Butifarra soledeña
• Carimañola
• Chicharrón
• Chuzo desgranado
• Mojarra frita
• Posta negra cartagenera
• Sancocho
• Arroz con coco
• Frozomalt
• Mazamorra de coco
• Bollo limpio y bollo de yuca
• Dulces típicos (alegrías, cocadas, enyucado)
• Raspao

See recommended restaurants for traditional food

📘 Barranquilla Carnival Dictionary

• Marimonda: One of the most iconic costumes of the Carnival. A character with a big nose, long ears, and colorful pants that represents the humor and mischief of Barranquilleros.
• Joselito Carnaval: A symbolic character who “dies” on Carnival Tuesday, marking the end of the celebration. He represents the partygoer who gave it all during the festivities.
• Letanías: Satirical rhyming verses recited by groups during parades. They make humorous political, social, or cultural commentary.
• Congo: Traditional Carnival dance featuring military-style costumes and wooden machetes. The term also refers to the groups who perform this dance.
• Batalla de Flores (Battle of the Flowers): The most famous Carnival parade, held on Saturday. Floats, queens, and dance troupes take over Vía 40.
• Comparsa (Troupe): A group of dancers and musicians that participate in parades with themed costumes and choreographed performances.
• Palco (Viewing Stand): A shaded and elevated structure with seats from which spectators watch the parades in comfort. Mini-stands are smaller and more affordable versions.
• Maizena (Cornstarch): White powder (like baby powder) that people throw playfully during events—a local Carnival tradition.
• Espuma carnavalera (Carnival Foam): Spray foam used for fun during parades. Be careful with your eyes!
• Guacherna: A beloved nighttime parade filled with lanterns, dancing, and live music—one of the most anticipated pre-Carnival events.
• Carnival Queen & King Momo: A young woman chosen to represent the joy, folklore, and tradition of the Carnival. King Momo is a male character who embodies laughter, chaos, and festivity.
• “Quien lo vive es quien lo goza”: The Carnival’s slogan—“Those who live it, enjoy it!”
• Aguardiente: A strong anise-flavored liquor, widely consumed during Carnival.
• Cumbiódromo: The name given to Vía 40 during Carnival—a stretch used for the main parades.
• Fiesta de Polleras: A women’s celebration during Carnival where they wear traditional cumbiambera skirts.
• Pea pea: A whistle used by the Marimonda that sounds like a fart—part of the costume’s comedic effect.
• ¡Nojoda!: A typical coastal expression used to convey amazement, frustration, or joy—like “Damn!” or “Wow!”
• Frito: Traditional fried foods from Colombia’s Caribbean coast—must-try Carnival street snacks.

Related Carnival articles

• Hotels to stay at the Carnival
• Typical food of Barranquilla
• Traditional Barranquilla Restaurants
• Tourist sites in Barranquilla
• What to do in Barranquilla?
• Bars and nightclubs in Barranquilla

#tourismbarranquilla #carnivalsbarranquilla

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Updated: august 20th, 2025