Cultural Events and Festivals in Bogotá: 2026 Annual Calendar

Bogotá: A Cultural Stage That Never Sleeps

Bogotá breathes culture. On every corner, in every neighborhood, in every square, there's a heartbeat that marks the rhythm of a city that constantly reinvents itself through its artistic expressions. The Colombian capital is not only the political and economic center of the country; it's also its cultural heart, a space where centuries-old traditions coexist with avant-garde movements that challenge the boundaries of contemporary art. During 2026, Bogotá is preparing to offer a calendar full of events that reflect this diversity, from international festivals that attract artists from around the world to local celebrations that keep alive the roots of an identity that is built day by day.

Monthly Calendar of Main Events 2026

January

In January 2026, Bogotá kicks off with the Festival Centro, a free musical event taking place from January 29 to February 1. With 49 artists in 10 venues in the historic center, this festival features genres such as tradition, avant-garde, electronic, roots, rock, salsa, hip hop, and children's music. Highlighted artists include Lucía Pulido, The Latin Brothers, and Parlantes. According to the official Bogotá Mayor's Office website, it is organized by the Mayor's Office and FUGA, with free admission and sound circuits in public spaces.

February

In February 2026, Bogotá offers Ruta Teatro, an initiative with 80 theater functions throughout the month, organized in four consecutive circuits in Teusaquillo and La Candelaria-Santa Fe. The circuits are: Teusaqui Red Viva (Feb 5-8), Alas a las Salas (Feb 12-15), Centro-Periferia (Feb 19-22), and Ruta Viva (Feb 26-Mar 1). Tickets cost 30,000 pesos general and 20,000 for students and seniors. According to Idartes, it's a live journey through performing arts.

March

Bogotá Ibero-American Theater Festival (March 20 - April 5, 2026)
The most important theater event in Colombia and one of the largest in the world. Streets transformed into stages, performances by international companies, workshops, and that unique energy that only FITB can create.

April

Bogotá Carnival 2026 will be celebrated from April 11 to 19, with parades, music, and dance in the streets. According to Revista Bombea, it's the first official edition organized by the Bogotá Carnival Association, highlighting local cultural diversity.

Bogotá International Book Fair (April 21 - May 4)
Corferias transforms into a literary universe where authors, publishers, and readers converge. For 2026, India is the guest country of honor, presenting its rich literary and cultural tradition. Book presentations, talks with international writers, and that smell of new paper that floods the pavilions.

May

Rock al Parque (dates and lineup to be confirmed for 2026)
Three days of free rock at Simón Bolívar Park. National and international bands, from the most experimental indie to the most powerful metal. A ritual for generations of Bogotanos.

Bogotá Fashion Week will take place from May 12 to 14, 2026 at Ágora Bogotá – Convention Center. The ninth edition will feature 145 Colombian designers and brands, selected by an independent curatorial committee. Includes Fashion Lab to enhance commercial capabilities and business opportunities. According to the official website, it's a key platform for Colombian design.

June

Jazz al Parque Festival (dates to be confirmed for 2026)
This festival, which in 2025 was held on September 6 and 7 at El Country Park, brings improvisation and swing to Bogotá. For 2026, the official programming has not been announced yet.

July

In July 2026, there are no main cultural events confirmed. The Bogotá Film Festival will take place in September (see corresponding section).

August

Bogotá Summer Festival will be celebrated in August 2026, but the complete programming has not been published yet. According to the IDRD, it's recommended to monitor the official site for updates on specific dates and activities.

Colombian Crafts Fair (August 5-15)
At Corferias, artisans from across the country display their ancestral techniques. Wayuu weaving, Ráquira ceramics, pre-Columbian jewelry, and that tangible connection with the hands that create.

September

There are no confirmed events for the Green Moon Festival in Bogotá for 2026. This festival is traditional to the islands of San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina, celebrated in September or October. For cultural events in Bogotá, explore other festivals like the Bogotá Film Festival.

Bogotá Film Festival (September 20-26, 2026)
Screenings at traditional theaters like Jorge Eliécer Gaitán and alternative spaces. Competition for Colombian short films and international sections showcasing the best of independent cinema. For 2026, the festival changes its traditional dates from October to September.

October

In October, there are no main events confirmed in Bogotá's calendar for 2026. The Children's Carnival, part of Bogotá Carnival, takes place this month, but see the April section for general details.

November

There is no official information on a Festival of Lights in the historic center for 2026. Instead, the Festival Brilla Sueños extends until January 12, 2026, offering luminous experiences in Sencia. Check the official website for more details.

December

Christmas Lights (all December)
From El Tunal Park to Avenue 68, Bogotá dresses up in lights. The main spectacle is usually at Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park, where millions of bulbs create Christmas figures that attract entire families.

Essential Festivals: Beyond the Dates

Bogotá Ibero-American Theater Festival

It's not just a festival; it's an urban phenomenon that transforms the city for two weeks. For 2026, FITB will take place from March 20 to April 5, with participation from companies from at least 25 countries. Stay tuned for official announcements for more details.

Rock al Parque

It was born in 1995 as a risky bet: bringing free rock to a public park in a city that then viewed this genre with suspicion. Three decades later, it's an icon. For 2026, as of the update date (February 2026), no official dates or lineup have been announced, but announcements are expected in the coming months.

Bogotá International Book Fair

In a digital world, FILBo remains a temple of paper. For 2026, India is the guest country of honor, bringing an explosion of literature, film, dance, and cuisine from one of the world's oldest cultures. According to the official Bogotá Mayor's Office website, over 630,000 attendees are expected, with programming that fosters cultural dialogue between Colombia and India.

Bogotá Film Festival

For 2026, the festival celebrates its XLIII edition from September 20 to 26, changing its traditional dates from October to September. It projects approximately 198 films in international competitions and categories such as social documentary and short films. A key space for independent cinema in the region.

Practical Tips to Enjoy Bogotá's Events

Tickets and Access

Many of Bogotá's most important festivals are free (Rock al Parque, Jazz al Parque, Summer Festival), but they require prior registration through their official websites. For paid events like FITB or FILBo, I recommend buying in advance, as tickets usually sell out quickly. Some independent theaters offer discounts for students and seniors with ID.

Transportation: Getting Around an Event City

Bogotá during major festivals can be chaotic, but there are strategies. For events at Simón Bolívar Park, the nearest TransMilenio station is Simón Bolívar (Calle 26 line). For the Historic Center (FITB, Festival of Lights), Museo del Oro or Las Aguas stations are ideal. Avoid private cars: besides traffic jams, parking is limited and expensive. Bicycles are an excellent option, especially with the cycle route system that connects many cultural points.

Accommodation: Where to Stay

If you're coming from out of town, consider the Chapinero district to be close to alternative theaters and nightlife. La Candelaria is ideal for events in the Historic Center, but research the specific neighborhood well. For festivals in the west (like Rock al Parque), Teusaquillo offers good connectivity. Book months in advance during major festivals; prices increase and availability decreases.

Safety and Climate

Bogotá is a city of climatic contrasts. Always carry a light raincoat (rain can surprise you at any time) and layers of clothing you can remove or add depending on the midday sun or nighttime cold. At massive events, keep your belongings secure and use fanny packs or crossbody bags. Follow the instructions of organizers and tourist police (white uniform).

Stay Updated: Reliable Resources

Bogotá's cultural agenda constantly changes. For verified information, consult:

• Idartes (District Institute of Arts): Its website and social media announce official events from the Mayor's Office.
• Secretariat of Culture, Recreation and Sport: Publishes calls and integrated calendars.
• Specialized media: Arcadia Magazine, Cartel Urbano, and blogs like Bogotá Cultura have detailed coverage.
• Festival social media: Follow the official accounts of FITB, Rock al Parque, FILBo, etc., for real-time announcements.

Bogotá doesn't expect passivity; it invites you to be part of its rhythm. In 2026, the city will continue to demonstrate that culture isn't a luxury, but a collective necessity celebrated on every corner. Whether under the rain at a park concert or in the reverent silence of a theater hall, there's space for everyone in this calendar that never finishes being written.

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