If you visit Medellín during December, you’re in for one of the most magical and culturally rich times of the year. Christmas in Medellín isn’t just a holiday — it’s a full-month celebration filled with food, lights, music, fireworks, and traditions you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

To help you experience it like a true local (and with the comfort and safety of a VIP traveler), we’ve curated the ultimate guide to the holiday traditions you should NOT miss — all of which TourPoint Medellín can organize for you during your stay.

🥯 1. Taste Fresh Buñuelos (Colombian Cheese Fritters)

Crispy on the outside, soft inside, slightly salty and subtly sweet — buñuelos are a must during December.
You’ll find them in bakeries across the city, but the best experience is eating them freshly made, early in the morning.

VIP Tip: TourPoint can include a traditional buñuelo + coffee stop in your private City Tour.

🍮 2. Try Natilla — Colombia’s Most Beloved Christmas Dessert

Natilla is a creamy custard flavored with cinnamon and panela. It’s unlike any dessert most foreigners have tried.
In Medellín, locals top it with arequipe or fresh cheese.

Where to try it: During neighborhood novenas, family gatherings, or a private cultural immersion arranged by TourPoint.

🍩 3. Enjoy Hojuelas (or “Hojaldras”)

Light, crunchy, and covered in sugar, hojuelas are the ultimate December snack.
They’re perfect after an evening walk through the holiday lights.

🎇 4. Walk Through the Famous Medellín Christmas Lights (Alumbrados)

The Alumbrados are one of the most iconic Christmas traditions in Colombia.
This year’s displays illuminate:

Parques del Río (the main show)
Avenida La Playa
Sabaneta Main Square
Envigado Park
Traditional neighborhoods full of color and music
Crowds can be intense — but with a private driver and curated route, you enjoy the lights comfortably and safely.

TourPoint Experience: Private Alumbrados Tour in luxury vehicle with snacks, music, and personalized photography.

🎆 5. Watch Fireworks From a Medellín Viewpoint

On December , Medellín lights up with fireworks across the entire valley.
The view is breathtaking from:

Las Palmas viewpoints
San Cristóbal
La Sierra viewpoint
Cerro Nutibara (Pueblito Paisa)

🕯️ 6. Celebrate “Día de las Velitas” (December 7th)

This beautiful tradition marks the start of Christmas season in Colombia.
Families and friends place candles outside their homes, creating a warm, glowing scene across entire neighborhoods.

For travelers, it's one of the most enchanting cultural experiences of the year.

🎶 7. Attend a Traditional Novena

Novenas are gatherings held from December 16th to 24th.
They mix prayer, live music, family traditions, food, and a joyful spirit that Colombia is famous for.

They include:

Singing villancicos
Sharing natilla & buñuelos
Neighborhood celebrations
Fireworks and lights

⭐ Experience Medellín’s Christmas Magic With TourPoint Medellín

December in Medellín isn’t just festive — it’s immersive, joyful, delicious, and deeply cultural.
Whether you want to taste traditional food, explore the city lights, or join authentic local celebrations, TourPoint ensures a safe, luxurious, and personalized experience.

✔ Private Christmas Lights Tour
✔ Día de las Velitas Experience
✔ Fireworks Viewpoint Night
✔ Cultural Food & Traditions Tour
✔ VIP Transportation & Concierge
✔ Customized holiday itineraries for families, friends, or corporate groups
Ready to experience the magic of Christmas in Medellín?
Contact TourPoint Medellín and let us design your dream December trip.