Christmas Day, observed on December 25th, is one of the most significant celebrations in Colombia, as in many parts of the world. This predominantly Catholic country puts a lot of emphasis on this holiday and the religious beliefs attached to it. Christmas in Colombia starts unofficially on December 7th, on the Day of the Little Candles. From then, the spirit of Christmas takes over Colombia, carrying a strong scent of tradition and family union.
During the festive period, Colombian homes, streets, and stores are beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments making cities like Medellín a spectacle to visit with its world-renowned annual light show. Novenas de Aguinaldos is also a traditional practise, occurring from December 16th to December 24th, during which families and friends come together to pray, sing carols and share food. The food plays an integral part in the celebration, with traditional dishes such as 'buñuelos', 'natilla', and 'hojuelas' being prepared.
On Christmas day itself, Colombians generally celebrate with close family and friends at home. The day is usually spent exchanging gifts, which are thought to be brought by El Niño Dios (the child God), akin to the tradition of Santa Claus in other cultures. Christmas Mass is also attended by many Colombians to commemorate the birth of Jesus. The season is marked by a sense of togetherness, demonstrating the importance of family values in Colombian culture.