The joy of end-of-year traditions will be experienced in every corner of the capital of Antioquia with more than 70 free activities organized by the District, within the framework of the Medellín Christmas Festival Loves Youwhich will take place from November 29 to December 15.
“Returning to the essence is always important and that is why we return to the importance of the manger, how we live Christmas from childhood, how to return to those traditional figures, to the family environment. Here the priority is the families, the manger is precisely that space of the city of light that will receive us. In addition, they are aiming for, through Guinness Record, this to be the largest nativity scene in the world,” said the mayor of Medellín, Federico Gutiérrez Zuluaga.
Citizens will also be able to register between November 18 and 22 in the “My illuminated block” contest, which will give the winners an event with artistic and cultural programming. This strategy aims to encourage citizen culture and coexistence between neighbors around Christmas with the decoration in each of the blocks and the awards ceremony will be on Saturday, December 14.
The opening event will be on Friday, November 29 with the lighting of the Christmas lights by EPM in sectors such as the river, while the illuminated Parks in the neighborhoods will have musical stages organized by the District Administration, starting in the Parque del Doce of October (December 4), in Boston Park (December 5), in Santo Domingo Library Park (December 11) and ending in Cristo Rey Park (December 12).
“Let’s enjoy Christmas with family, with friends, may this time infect us with joy, but, above all, with respect for others. The synonym of party can never end in tragedy,” added the district president.
The city expects 125,000 visitors and an economic impact of $80.1 million.
The program includes Christmas Plazas, Christmas Corridors, Parade of Myths and Legends, Parks illuminated by EPM with musical stages organized by the District, Artists’ Street Festival, Entre Cuerdas y Acordeones Festival, Sanalejo craft markets and the Christmas Culture Park . In addition, there are more than 50 private events at different points.
Interview: The Spirit of Medellín Christmas Festival
Editor (Time.news): Welcome to our interview segment! Today, we have a special guest, Dr. Laura Torres, an expert in cultural festivals and community engagement. We’re excited to discuss the upcoming Medellín Christmas Festival from November 29 to December 15. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Torres!
Dr. Laura Torres: Thank you for having me! I’m thrilled to be here and talk about such a vibrant celebration.
Editor: Medellín’s Christmas Festival is back this year with more than 70 free activities. How important are community events like this for cities, especially during festive times?
Dr. Torres: Community events like the Medellín Christmas Festival play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness among residents. They provide an opportunity for families to connect, celebrate traditions, and create memorable experiences. During the holiday season, such activities can uplift spirits and reinforce community bonds, especially in urban settings where individuals may feel isolated.
Editor: The mayor, Federico Gutiérrez Zuluaga, emphasized a return to the essence of Christmas with a focus on traditional figures and the significance of the manger. How do these elements resonate with the community?
Dr. Torres: The emphasis on tradition is powerful. The manger represents warmth, family, and the heart of Christmas, especially in Latin American cultures. By celebrating traditional elements, the festival not only honors cultural heritage but also reminds citizens of shared values and experiences from childhood. It’s a beautiful way to reconnect with the past while celebrating the present.
Editor: One of the festival’s highlights is the attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest nativity scene. What impact do such ambitious feats have on local pride and tourism?
Dr. Torres: Record-breaking attempts like this can significantly boost local pride. When a city showcases its culture on an international platform, it fosters a sense of community achievement. Additionally, it attracts tourists, which can have economic benefits for local businesses and create a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors come not only for the records but to experience the warmth and hospitality of Medellín.
Editor: There’s also the “My illuminated block” contest aimed at fostering citizen culture. How does neighborhood participation enhance the overall festival experience?
Dr. Torres: The “My illuminated block” contest is an excellent way to engage residents actively. It inspires creativity and encourages neighbors to come together for a common goal—decorating their blocks. Such participation cultivates a sense of ownership over the festivities and helps build lasting relationships among community members. Collective efforts like this can transform a neighborhood, making it feel like a beautiful shared canvas.
Editor: The festival runs from November 29 to December 15. How can families best partake in the festivities while ensuring they have an enriching experience?
Dr. Torres: I recommend families take the time to explore different events each day. Given the variety of free activities, there’s something for everyone—from artistic performances to interactive installations. Families can also engage in volunteering opportunities alongside festivities, creating deeper connections with their community. Most importantly, they should savor the moments shared with loved ones, as that’s what the spirit of Christmas is truly about.
Editor: what message do you believe the Medellín Christmas Festival sends to both residents and visitors about the city?
Dr. Torres: The festival sends a powerful message of resilience, unity, and joy. It showcases Medellín not just as a vibrant city but as a community that embraces its culture and traditions while inviting everyone to be part of its journey. For both residents and visitors, it’s a reminder that no matter our background, we can come together in celebration, spreading love and light during the festive season.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Torres, for sharing your insights! It’s clear that the Medellín Christmas Festival is set to be an unforgettable experience for all involved.
Dr. Torres: Thank you for having me! I cannot wait to witness the joy and celebration that unfolds during the festival!