Colombian Novenas in Bogotá: Day 1 - December 16
In Bogotá, when December begins to paint the streets with lights and the cold of the savanna mixes with the warmth of gatherings, one of the deepest-rooted traditions begins: the Christmas novena. Between December 16 and 24, Bogotá homes open up to pray, sing carols, and share natilla and buñuelos. Today, December 16, we begin this spiritual journey that brings together families, neighbors, and even curious travelers who want to experience Christmas like a local.
First Day: Prayer for December 16 (traditional version)
The novena begins with a prayer that has been passed down from generation to generation, preserving its essence while adapting to the times. This is the traditional version prayed in Bogotá:
To begin:
In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Prayer for every day:
Blessed be God.
Blessed be His Holy Name.
Blessed be Jesus Christ, true God and true man.
Blessed be the Name of Jesus.
Blessed be His Most Sacred Heart.
Blessed be His Most Precious Blood.
Blessed be Jesus in the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar.
Blessed be the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete.
Blessed be the exalted Mother of God, Holy Mary.
Blessed be her Holy and Immaculate Conception.
Blessed be her glorious Assumption.
Blessed be the name of Mary, Virgin and Mother.
Blessed be Saint Joseph, her most chaste spouse.
Blessed be God in His angels and in His saints. Amen.
Prayer for every day of the novena
This prayer is repeated each day, creating a sacred rhythm that marks the days leading up to Christmas. In Bogotá, it is recited with a particular, almost musical cadence that grandparents teach to grandchildren and newcomers learn by imitation. It is a text that, more than words, is a bridge between generations.
Cultural notes and regional variations
In Bogotá, the novena has its particularities. While on the Caribbean Coast it mixes with gaitas and drums, in the capital it remains more sober, with soft guitars and voices rising in organized choirs. Traditional neighborhoods like La Candelaria or Usaquén preserve versions almost identical to those from a hundred years ago, while in more modern areas like Chapinero or El Chicó contemporary instruments are incorporated.
What doesn't change is the ritual: at the end of the prayer, candles are lit, traditional foods are shared, and songs like "Ven a mi casa esta Navidad" or "Mi burrito sabanero" are sung. In some Bogotá families, the custom of children representing the living nativity scene while praying is still preserved.
Complete guide to participate locally during the day
If you are in Bogotá this December 16 and want to experience the novena like a local, here's everything you need to know:
- Where to go: The churches in the historic center offer public novenas around 7:00 PM. The Primada Cathedral of Bogotá (Carrera 7 #10-70, Plaza de Bolívar) and the Church of San Francisco (Carrera 7 #14-70) are emblematic places to experience this tradition. In residential neighborhoods, discreetly ask neighbors if you can join their family novena.
- What to bring: Arrive with respect and discretion. If you go to a private home, bring something to share: natilla, buñuelos, or a bottle of sweet wine. Buñuelos and natilla are the kings of the Bogotá novena.
- How to behave: Follow the rhythm of those present. If you don't know the prayers, listen attentively. At the end, participate in the carols and sharing. Bogotáns highly value respect for their traditions.
- For travelers: You don't need to be religious to appreciate this tradition. It's an authentic window into Bogotá culture and a unique opportunity for human connection.
Iconic places to experience the novena in Bogotá
If you want to experience the novena in places with history and tradition, here are some sites you can't miss:
- Primada Cathedral of Bogotá: Carrera 7 #10-70, Plaza de Bolívar. The main church of Colombia, with novenas that attract hundreds of people. Website | Google Maps
- Church of San Francisco: Carrera 7 #14-70. One of the oldest churches in Bogotá, with incredible acoustics for carols. Website | Google Maps
- La Candelaria neighborhood: The historic heart of Bogotá, where many families maintain traditional novenas in their colonial homes.
- Usaquén: This neighborhood preserves the tradition of family novenas in its old houses, especially in the main square.
Frequently asked questions about the novena in Bogotá
- How long does a novena last? Generally between 45 minutes and 1 hour, including prayers, carols, and sharing food.
- Do I need to be Catholic to participate? No, all people are welcome as long as they show respect for the tradition.
- Is there any cost? No, novenas in churches are free. If you attend a private home, it's courteous to bring something to share.
- What should I wear? Modest and respectful clothing. Bogotáns usually dress formally for these occasions.
- Can I bring children? Absolutely! Children are a fundamental part of the tradition, especially for representing the living nativity scene.
The novena in Bogotá is more than a religious tradition; it's an act of community that survives the fast pace of the city. During these nine days, time seems to stop, and what matters is reconnection, shared memory, and the collective anticipation of Christmas. Tomorrow we will continue with day 2, but today, December 16, we begin this journey together.
Share this guide so others can celebrate the novena in Bogotá and experience this tradition like true locals.
