Medellín's Tech Nights: Gatherings of Innovators and Entrepreneurs

What Are They and Why Are They Taking Off?

Medellín is no longer just the city of eternal spring. For a few years now, it has become a magnet for digital nomads, startup founders, and tech enthusiasts who found in the Aburrá Valley a place to live well and build big things. But what many don't know is that the tech scene doesn't shut down when office hours end. In fact, some of the most valuable connections are made after 7 p.m., in bars, rooftops, and coworking spaces that transform into networking venues over craft beer.

These tech nights aren't boring conferences with slides. They are informal gatherings where a CTO from a San Francisco startup might end up chatting with a local developer about artificial intelligence, while electronic music plays in the background. In April 2026, the scene is more alive than ever, with weekly events ranging from nighttime hackathons to pitch nights on rooftops overlooking the city.

The Events You Can't Miss

Colombia Tech Week: The Annual Epicenter

If there's one event that marks the calendar, it's Colombia Tech Week. For a whole week, Medellín fills up with panels, workshops, and, above all, tech parties. What started as a small gathering now brings together hundreds of entrepreneurs, investors, and curious minds. The best part: not everything happens during the day. The Tech Week nights feature after-parties at places like Vintrash or El Social, where code mixes with cocktails. The 2025 edition brought together over 2,100 in-person and virtual attendees, according to figures from the Colombia 4.0 event, which also takes place in the city.

Startup Grind Medellín: Monthly Networking

The local chapter of Startup Grind organizes monthly meetups that usually take place in the evening, during the week. They typically include a speaker —a well-known founder or investor— followed by a Q&A session and networking. The atmosphere is relaxed, no ties required. Events are held at spaces like Ruta N or coworkings in the Laureles neighborhood. Entry usually costs between 15,000 and 30,000 COP and includes a beer or coffee.

Medellín JS and Other Coding Communities

Developer communities are the heart of the nighttime tech scene. Medellín JS (JavaScript) and Python Medellín organize monthly meetups that often end up at nearby bars. It doesn't matter if you're a senior or just starting out: the atmosphere is inclusive, and people are happy to explain things from scratch. These events are free or have a symbolic cost, and are announced on platforms like Meetup.com or WhatsApp groups.

Nighttime Hackathons: Coding Until Dawn

For the more intense crowd, there are hackathons that last 24 or 48 hours. Although they sound like coding marathons, they actually include breaks for food, music, and yes, early morning hours where creativity flows. Places like Universidad EAFIT or Ruta N have hosted these events, where teams compete to solve a specific challenge. It's not uncommon to see participants sleeping on inflatable sofas while others keep coding.

The Spaces Where the Tech Night Moves

Ruta N: The Heart of Innovation

Located at Cra 43A # 1-50, in the El Poblado neighborhood, Ruta N is Medellín's innovation and business center. During the day it's a corporate building, but at night it transforms into a venue for tech events. Product launches and panels with international figures are held here. Access to nighttime events is usually free or with prior registration. Just be sure to check the times, as many end before 10 p.m.

Vintrash: The Bar Where Founders Unwind

At Cra 35 # 8A-25, in El Poblado, Vintrash is known for its underground vibe and varied music. But it's also an unofficial meeting point for the tech community. After events like Colombia Tech Week, it's common to see groups of entrepreneurs discussing investment rounds over a craft beer. Prices are moderate: a beer costs around 8,000 COP.

El Social: Rooftop with a View of the City

At Cra 37 # 8-43, also in El Poblado, El Social has a terrace with one of the best views of Medellín. It's a recurring spot for tech event after-parties. The atmosphere is more upscale than Vintrash, but just as relaxed. Cocktails cost between 25,000 and 40,000 COP. If you want to network in a more sophisticated setting, this is your place.

Coworkings That Turn Into Bars

Spaces like WeWork at Millennium Plaza or Selina Cowork in Laureles sometimes organize networking nights with open bars or drink discounts. They aren't massive events, but rather intimate ones focused on connecting people with similar interests. Check their calendars on social media.

How to Participate in These Tech Nights

Register on the Right Platforms

The first step is to be on the channels where these events are announced. The most used platforms are:

• Meetup.com: search for groups like "Medellín Tech Meetup" or "Startup Grind Medellín".
• Eventbrite: many free or paid events are posted here.
• WhatsApp and Telegram Groups: local communities have active chats where they share last-minute events. Ask at any meetup you attend, and they'll add you.
• LinkedIn: follow organizations like Ruta N, Colombia Tech Week, and Startup Grind Medellín.

Prepare for Networking

Don't show up without knowing what to say. Have a 30-second elevator pitch ready about what you do. But don't be too formal either: the key in Medellín is authenticity. Ask where the person is from, what brought them to the city, what they're building. Locals value warmth over corporate polish.

Reference Prices (April 2026)

Costs vary. Coding community meetups are usually free. Events like Startup Grind charge between 15,000 and 30,000 COP. Larger conferences, like those during Colombia Tech Week, can have tickets from 50,000 COP up to 200,000 COP if they include access to all activities. After-parties at bars have no cover charge, but you pay for consumption. It's recommended to check prices directly on each event's page, as they may change.

Tips for First-Time Attendees

• Arrive early: nighttime events usually start at 6:30 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. Arriving early gives you a chance to chat with organizers and other attendees before it gets crowded.
• Bring a charged phone: you'll want to take photos, scan LinkedIn QR codes, or record a panel. A power bank never hurts.
• Don't be afraid of English: even if the event is in Spanish, many attendees are foreigners. If you're not fluent in English, you'll still manage: the tech community is bilingual and patient.
• Dress casual but not sloppy: jeans, a t-shirt or shirt, comfortable shoes. In Medellín, the tech dress code is relaxed, but avoid flip-flops if the event is indoors.
• Stay hydrated: it sounds obvious, but between the city's heat and the beers, it's easy to get dehydrated. Alternate water with alcohol.
• Use safe transportation: if the event ends late, take a taxi or use apps like Uber or Didi. The metro closes at 11 p.m., so plan your return.

Medellín: A City That Innovates at Night

What makes Medellín's nighttime tech scene unique isn't just the quality of the events, but the mix of people. Here you can find a Colombian who created a fintech, a German who came for three months and stayed for two years, and a graphic designer building her first SaaS. All in the same bar, with the same beer in hand and the same excitement for what they're doing.

The city has leveraged its urban transformation to attract global talent, but it has also cultivated

Event Details (Lineup, Program, Dates)

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Prices and How to Get Tickets

Ticket prices for tech events in Medellín vary depending on the nature of the gathering. Generally, you can find options ranging from $30,000 to $200,000 COP, depending on the type of access you want (general, VIP, workshops, etc.).

Below are some tips on how to get tickets and make the most of your experience:

1. Eventbrite

One of the most used platforms for buying tickets in Medellín. You can find tech events, talks, and workshops here. Insider Tip: Turn on notifications to stay updated on new events and exclusive discounts.

2. Meetup

Ideal for connecting with other professionals and entrepreneurs. Many events are free or have a symbolic cost. Insider Tip: Join groups related to your interest to receive invitations to events before they become public.

3. Social Media

Following event organizers on platforms like Instagram and Facebook will give you access to promotions and ticket giveaways. Insider Tip: Participate in comments and posts, as they often hold giveaways among their followers.

Remember that the tech community in Medellín is very active, and networking opportunities are endless. Make sure to check the event schedule regularly and don't miss out on your ticket!

How to Get There

Medellín Metro

The Metro is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to get around the city. It connects several key points, including the Zona Rosa and downtown, where many tech gatherings take place.

Insider Tip: Make sure to transfer at Poblado station to access the J line that takes you to Universidad EAFIT, where technology and entrepreneurship events are frequently organized.

Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps

Using taxis or apps like Uber and DIDI is a comfortable option, especially if you're traveling in a group or carrying heavy equipment. Local drivers know the city well and can take you directly to your destination.

Insider Tip: Always use app services instead of hailing a taxi on the street. This way you'll avoid inflated fares and have a safer trip.

Integrated Public Transport

Medellín has an integrated transport system that includes the Metro, metrobus, and cable car. You can use a Cívica card that allows you to make transfers at no additional cost.

Insider Tip: If you plan to attend several events, consider getting a Cívica card and loading it with enough balance to avoid any hiccups.