Day of the Innocents in Colombia: when humor becomes tradition
On December 28th, Colombia wakes up with a mischievous smile. It's not just any day: it's the Day of the Innocents, a date where jokes, pranks and mischief take center stage. But behind the laughter there's a deep history, a mix of religious traditions and popular customs that have evolved over the years. In this article, we invite you to explore not only the reason for this celebration, but also how it's experienced today in different corners of the country, from bustling cities to the most peaceful towns.
Historical origin: from the massacre of the innocents to modern pranks
The Day of the Innocents has its roots in Christian tradition, which commemorates the massacre of children ordered by King Herod in Bethlehem, according to the Gospel of Matthew. In Colombia, as in many Latin American countries, this date merged with pre-Hispanic and colonial customs, transforming into a day of humor and lightness. Throughout the 20th century, the celebration lost some of its religious tone to adopt a more playful character, influenced by media and popular culture. Today, although some still remember the religious origin, for most it's an opportunity to share laughter with family and friends.
How the Day of the Innocents is celebrated in different regions of Colombia
Each region of Colombia adds its own flavor to this tradition. Here we tell you how it's experienced in the main destinations:
Bogotá: the capital of urban pranks
In Bogotá, it's common to see people sticking fake coins on the ground or telling exaggerated stories in offices. Plaza de Bolívar and the Historic Center are usually epicenters of fun, where Bogotanos take advantage to play with tourists and locals alike. If you visit the capital on this date, get ready for a playful atmosphere in places like:
- Plaza de Bolívar: Historic center where jokes and laughter converge
- Parque de la 93: Modern area with festive atmosphere
- Usaquén: Local market with authentic traditions
Medellín: fake news and paisa humor
In Medellín, local media often publish fake news with a humorous touch, while in the streets the paisa spirit makes itself felt with creative pranks. The City of Eternal Spring transforms its public spaces into stages of fun:
- Parque de los Pies Descalzos: Ideal place for family pranks
- Pueblito Paisa: Lookout with traditional atmosphere
- Parque de las Luces: Cultural center with special activities
Caribbean Coast: theater and fun in Barranquilla and Cartagena
On the Caribbean Coast, especially in Barranquilla and Cartagena, pranks tend to be more theatrical, with costumes and street performances. Caribbean warmth mixes with the joy of its inhabitants to create a unique spectacle:
- Barranquilla: The Malecón del Río and the Historic Center fill with color
- Cartagena: The walls and the Walled City are settings for historical pranks
- Santa Marta: El Rodadero and the Historic Center offer family fun
Coffee Region: peasant traditions and the "pescaíto"
In the Coffee Region, towns like Manizales or Armenia maintain traditions like the "pescaíto", where paper figures are hung on the backs of the distracted. This coffee region preserves the peasant spirit in its celebrations:
- Manizales: Plaza de Bolívar and the city center
- Armenia: Parque de la Vida and the Museo del Oro Quimbaya
- Pereira: Parque Olaya Herrera and Plaza de Bolívar
Practical tips to experience the Day of the Innocents like a local
If you visit Colombia on this date, get ready for a playful atmosphere, but remember to be respectful. Pranks should be harmless and never cause physical or emotional harm. Participate with curiosity: ask locals about their traditions and join in the laughter, but avoid pranks that could be culturally misunderstood. It's a perfect day to connect with the community, whether in a local market or public square. And if you're taken for an "innocent", take it with humor: it's part of the experience.
Frequently asked questions about the Day of the Innocents in Colombia
Why is it celebrated on December 28?
It's celebrated on December 28 because it commemorates the massacre of innocent children ordered by King Herod, according to Christian tradition. In Colombia, this date transformed into a day of pranks and humor.
What are the most common pranks?
The most common pranks include sticking fake coins on the ground, telling exaggerated stories, publishing fake news in local media, hanging paper "pescaítos" on people's backs, and performing theatrical acts in public spaces.
Is it offensive to participate as a tourist?
No, on the contrary. Colombians appreciate tourists participating respectfully in their traditions. Just make sure your pranks are harmless and culturally appropriate.
Where is it celebrated most intensely?
Larger cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Barranquilla and Cartagena usually have more visible celebrations, but every town and region has its own unique traditions.
Experience the authentic Day of the Innocents
Ultimately, the Day of the Innocents is a window into Colombian joy, a tradition that celebrates unity through humor. If you want to experience this unique tradition, we recommend visiting Colombia in late December and participating in local celebrations. Remember that the best way to understand a culture is to immerse yourself in its traditions with respect and curiosity.
Ready to discover more Colombian traditions? Explore Malokal and find your next cultural adventure in Colombia.
