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Bienvenido a la fiesta! Dancing all day and night, never-ending parades, extravagant costumes, and painted faces — what more could you ask for at the biggest party in Colombia? The second-largest carnival in the world (just after Rio de Janeiro’s), Barranquilla’s Carnival is not to be missed. If you’re planning on taking a trip to this Caribbean city to celebrate festivities almost as old as the city itself, we’ve got you covered with all the schedules, tips, and packing lists you’ll need.

Barranquilla carnival 2017
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Your complete 2019 Barranquilla Carnival Guide

Barranquilla Carnival Location

Barranquilla is located on the Caribbean coast just between Cartagena and Santa Marta. Just a quick bus ride from either of those cities or a quick flight from Bogota or Medellin, the festivities of this historic party will be taking place all over the city.

When is Barranquilla Carnival 2019

Kicking off the Saturday before Ash Wednesday, Barranquilla Carnival begins with the “Battle of Flowers”. While there are many break-out parties and private events happening the entire week, here are all the official events of Barranquilla Carnival 2019.

The official dates for the festival are Saturday, March 2ndTuesday, March 5th.

By Barranquilla Carnival Facebook

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Where to Stay for Barranquilla Carnival

Accommodation options range from hostels to hotels to Airbnbs — whatever your preferences, there are options for each. Our recommendation: book sooner rather than later to avoid surges in pricing. Here are a few great options (that are still available) to get you inspired.

Hotel City House – Located in the popular North Centro Historico area, this spot is great for those looking for a safe and secure hotel spot away from the chaos of the festival.

The best vacation rentals for the lowest price

Comodo Apto + House Los Andes – For more of an Airbnb-type experience, take your group to this 3-bedroom spot located in an apartment complex in the heart of the city. It’s cozy, has great views, and it’s within walking distance of lots of restaurants and attractions.

The best vacation rentals for the lowest price

Hotel Macari – You’re not going to find these prices anywhere else for a 4-star hotel. If you’re looking to keep things fancy during your stay at Carnaval, definitely keep Hotel Macari in mind.

The best vacation rentals for the lowest price

Mamy Dorme Hostal – For the classic social hostel experience, look no further than Mamy Dorme. You’ll be surrounded by other enthusiastic festival goers, and you’ll most likely end up linking up with a big group to head out on the town.

The best vacation rentals for the lowest price

Things to bring

Barranquilla is a tropical city: which means it’s hot and humid. These items will make your Carnival experience much more enjoyable (and the heat much more bearable).

  • Refillable water bottle
  • Sunscreen and more sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Comfortable closed toe shoes
  • Cross-body bag/fanny pack/backpack
  • Portable phone charger
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Pro Tips

Purchase drinks and snacks at a supermarket before you go to the event, it’s way cheaper than buying them inside the events. Have cash on hand (You don’t want to miss out on things because you’re not near to an ATM).

During Carnival, prices for everything will rise in Barranquilla (clubs, drinks, food, etc.). For this reason, you should buy your Carnival souvenirs and artisanal products in the city, do not buy them at the airport if you don’t want to pay more. 

Stay with your group. Safety is always a priority in these types of events. A group of 6 friends together is a good size.

Make sure you don’t make yourself a target to be robbed. There are a lot of tourists that come to Carnival so wear the most simple outfit you can – leave your valued jewelry and designer bags at the hotel.

Dress up! It’s one big party and a funny hat or inflatable crown will just add to the fun.

Put your cash and phone in a ziplock bag in case you get wet. If you’re really participating in Carnival, eventually you will get wet.

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Friday, March 1st

Baila la Calle – Fiesta de Tradición

Where: Par Vial Carrera 50

Official Concert of Carnaval featuring Marc Anthony

Where: Estadio Romelio Martinez

Saturday, March 2nd

Batalla de Flores

Where: Vía 40, 12:00pm

Gran Desfile del Rey Momo

Where: Calle 17, 2:00pm

Encuentro de Comedias, 

Where: Parque Olaya, 5:00pm

Sunday, March 3rd 

Gran Parada de Tradición y Folclor.

Where: Vía 40, 1:00pm

Encuentro de Comedias

Where: Parque Olaya, 5:00pm

Baila la Calle: Noche de Orquestas

Where: Par Vial Carrera 50, 5:00pm

Encuentro de Letianos

Where: Barrio Abajo, 5:00pm

Monday, March 4th

Gran Parada de Comparsas

Where:  Vía 40, 1:00pm

Festival de Orquestas

Where: Plaza de la Paz, 11:00am

Encuentro de Comedias

Where: Parque Calancala, 5:00pm

Tuesday, March 5th

Joselito se va con las cenizas 

Where: Carrera 54 con Calle 58, 4:00pm

Festival de Comedias

Where: Parque Almendra, 2:00pm

By Barranquilla Carnival Facebook
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2 Comments

  1. I’m so going 🙂 Thank you for the great tips!

  2. Roger Behrens

    Do not wear expensive jewelry, flash your cash, and expensive electronics. Also, don’t wear your $500.00 athletic shoes. Those things will possibly make you a target for thieves. Remember to wear plenty of sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

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