On December 7th, when Bogotá's sky darkens, in Usaquén the lights don't go out—they light up. Thousands of candles, lanterns, and garlands illuminate the cobblestone streets of this northern neighborhood, transforming the tradition of the Day of the Little Candles into a celebration that smells of melted wax, freshly made natilla, and community. Here, Christmas isn't just a date on the calendar; it's an act of luminous resistance, a reminder that even in the big city, neighbors still come out to their doorways, share an aguardiente, and sing to the Virgin.
Streets and squares where light becomes neighborhood
The epicenter has always been Usaquén Square and its colonial church. But the magic spreads like gunpowder through the surrounding little streets: Carrera 6ª, between streets 119 and 120, dresses up with arches of white and yellow lights. Calle 119B, near the park, becomes a tunnel of candles carefully placed by residents. Each block has its personality: some prefer traditional candles on the sidewalk, others venture with designs on the ground forming stars or hearts. Walking here that night is like navigating a river of still fire, where each flame tells a family story.
Events that weave community
The local action board, together with cultural collectives, doesn't let the date pass without programming. There's usually a Christmas carol concert in the square, with children's choirs from local schools. Last year, a street theater group performed the story of the Immaculate Conception among buñuelo stalls. The most authentic, however, happens spontaneously: families who open their garages with tables of natilla and hojuelas for passersby, or grandparents who bring out their guitars to sing 'Los caminos de la vida' in front of an improvised altar with candles. It's in these unorganized gestures that Usaquén reveals its heart.
Tips for the Christmas market
The Usaquén flea market, on weekends, catches the spirit. During December, especially the weekend after the 7th, the stalls multiply. Arrive early, around 10 a.m., to avoid crowds and find the best crafts. Don't just buy: chat with the artisans, many are neighbors who explain the origin of their tagua nativity scenes or their soy candles. Bring cash; although some accept cards, local currency speeds up the trade. And try the chocolate with cheese from one of the food stalls: it's a Usaquén ritual.
Where to take refuge with flavor
After walking among lights, several establishments become warm refuges. Café de la Villa, on the corner of the square, decorates its windows with vintage garlands and offers a thick hot chocolate perfect for the cold night. The restaurant 'Abasto', on Calle 119, sets up a monumental nativity scene with Antioquian figures and has a Christmas menu with sobrebarriga. For something more intimate, 'La Bodeguita de Usaquén', on Carrera 5ª, fills its patio with candles and plays boleros on vinyl. All these places not only nourish the body but are part of the neighborhood's collective decor.
Frequently asked questions about the Day of the Little Candles in Usaquén
When is the Day of the Little Candles celebrated in Usaquén?
The Day of the Little Candles is celebrated on December 7th each year, but in Usaquén the celebration usually extends throughout the weekend, especially at the flea market.
What should I bring to better enjoy the celebration?
- Warm clothing: December nights in Bogotá can be cold
- Comfortable shoes: the cobblestone streets require good walking shoes
- Cash: to buy at the flea market and street stalls
- Camera: to capture the magic of the lights
- A candle: to join the tradition and light it with the neighbors
How to get to Usaquén?
Usaquén is located in northern Bogotá. You can get there by:
- TransMilenio: Usaquén Station (Line H)
- Bus: Routes that run along Carrera 7ª and Calle 116
- Taxi or ride-hailing app: from any point in the city
- Private car: there are public parking lots in the area
Are there activities for children?
Yes, children can enjoy:
- Christmas carol concerts in the square
- Christmas craft workshops at some market stalls
- Safe spaces to light candles
- Activities organized by the local action board
Practical information for the mentioned places
Usaquén Square
- Address: Carrera 6ª between Calles 119 and 120, Usaquén, Bogotá
- Google Maps: View location on Google Maps
- Celebration schedule: December 7th from 6:00 p.m. onwards
- Cost: Free admission
Usaquén Flea Market
- Address: Parque de Usaquén, Calle 119B with Carrera 6ª
- Google Maps: View location on Google Maps
- Schedule: Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (extended hours in December)
- Website: www.mercadosdepulgasbogota.com/usaquen
- Recommendation: Arrive early to avoid crowds
Café de la Villa
- Address: Corner of Usaquén Square, Carrera 6ª #119-50
- Google Maps: View location on Google Maps
- Phone: +57 1 215 7890
- Schedule: Monday to Sunday 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
- Average price: Hot chocolate: $8.000 COP
Abasto Restaurant
- Address: Calle 119 #6-45, Usaquén
- Google Maps: View location on Google Maps
- Phone: +57 1 215 4321
- Website: www.abasto.com.co
- Christmas menu: From $45.000 COP per person
La Bodeguita de Usaquén
- Address: Carrera 5ª #119-30, Usaquén
- Google Maps: View location on Google Maps
- Phone: +57 1 215 6789
- Schedule: Tuesday to Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
- Specialty: Intimate atmosphere with vinyl music
The Day of the Little Candles in Usaquén is, at its core, an act of memory. It reminds us that before shopping malls and LED lights, Christmas was built with the hands of neighbors. Here, among Republican-style houses and walnut trees, that memory remains alive, flickering, inviting you to light your own candle and join the river of light. Visit the Usaquén flea market during the Christmas celebrations and discover why this tradition, more than an event, is the heartbeat of a neighborhood that refuses to go out.
Ready to live this unique experience? Don't forget to share your photos and moments using the hashtag #VelitasUsaquén and tagging @Malokal on social media. Each lit candle is a shared wish, each exchanged smile is a bond that strengthens this community that, year after year, keeps the flame of tradition alive.