What is the Fiesta del Mar and why it's a must-see
If there's one week when Santa Marta comes alive completely, it's the Fiesta del Mar. It's not just any celebration: it's the city's birthday, the Pearl of America, and for seven days the Colombian Caribbean takes over the streets, beaches, and parks with an energy that never stops. The 2027 edition promises to be historic, because in addition to the official schedule that's already starting to be revealed, the city celebrates its 502nd anniversary with an agenda full of tradition, music, gastronomy, and events for all ages.
For the first-time tourist, the Fiesta del Mar is the best gateway to samario culture. For the local, it's the perfect excuse to reconnect with their roots, watch the balleneras on the sea, dance until dawn, and proudly say "qué vaina linda." If you're planning to come in July 2027, this guide will help you not miss a thing.
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Official dates and duration of the event
The Fiesta del Mar 2027 will be held from July 23 to 29, as the city has done in recent years. Seven full days of programming that turn Santa Marta into the cultural and festive epicenter of the Caribbean coast. The dates are already confirmed by the Mayor's Office of Santa Marta and the event organization, so you can go ahead and block those days on your calendar without worry.
One important thing: although the main programming happens during those seven days, weeks before, the city fills up with pre-events, warm-up concerts, and gastronomic events. If you can arrive a few days early, even better, because the city already feels like it's in party mode.
Official day-by-day schedule
The official Fiesta del Mar agenda is built around three main pillars: the balleneras parade, free concerts on the beach, and the queen election. But there's much more. Here's what you can't miss, day by day.
Wednesday, July 23: Official opening
The party kicks off with the installation ceremony and the traditional lighting of the flame or symbolic act at Parque de los Novios, the bohemian heart of Santa Marta. It's a night of music, speeches, and the presentation of the full official schedule. Local gaita and drum groups take over the park and the surroundings of the Catedral Basílica de Santa Marta.
Thursday, July 24: Tradition and culture
This day is dedicated to roots. There are showcases of traditional dances, performances by folk groups, and activities for kids in spaces like Parque Simón Bolívar. There's also usually a floral offering at the Muelle de la Bahía in honor of fishermen and the city's maritime history. It's a perfect day to get to know the deep Santa Marta, the one that doesn't appear on postcards.
Friday, July 25: Los Cocos and the first big concert
The most anticipated night for music lovers. Playa Los Cocos becomes the main stage with free concerts starting in the late afternoon. In past editions, national and international artists have performed, and the turnout is massive. It's recommended to arrive early, wear light clothing, and stay hydrated. The sound of cumbia, vallenato, and champeta echoes until dawn.
Saturday, July 26: The Grand Balleneras Parade
This is the flagship event, the one that has no comparison. Early in the morning, the bay of Santa Marta fills with color as the balleneras, boats decorated by different sectors of the city, compete for the prize of the most eye-catching. The parade is perfectly visible from the avenida del Mar, the Muelle Turístico, and the Camellón de la Bahía. It's a spectacle of music, costumes, and comparsas that lasts several hours. If you bring a camera, this is the moment for the best photos.
Sunday, July 27: Queen election
The gala night. The election of the Señorita Santa Marta or Queen of the Fiesta del Mar takes place on a main stage, which in recent years has been at Playa Los Cocos or in an indoor coliseum. It's the night of the candidates from different neighborhoods and sectors, with artistic performances, fantasy costumes, and the coronation of the new sovereign. It's an event that mixes glamour and tradition, and the excitement is palpable.
Monday, July 28: Beach day and sports events
The party slows down a bit, but doesn't stop. There are sailing competitions, beach soccer tournaments at Playa Salguero, and water activities at Playa Blanca and Taganga. It's the perfect day to enjoy the sea without the crowds of peak days and to try local cuisine at the restaurants in the Centro Histórico.
Tuesday, July 29: Grand finale
The closing is a mix of nostalgia and celebration. There's a farewell concert, the presentation of the elected queen, and a fireworks show over the bay that lights up the entire city. It's a magical moment to watch from the Parque de los Novios or from any point along the avenida del Mar.
Prices and how to get tickets
The vast majority of Fiesta del Mar 2027 events are free, especially the beach concerts and the balleneras parade. However, there are two things to watch out for:
- VIP areas or boxes: For the balleneras parade and the Queen election, the organization usually sets up paid boxes or preferred areas. Prices vary each year and are announced on the official social media of the Fiesta del Mar de Santa Marta and the Mayor's Office of Santa Marta.
- Private events: During the week, bars and clubs in the Centro Histórico and Parque de los Novios organize private parties with guest artists. These do have an entry fee, and tickets are available directly at the venues or on ticketing platforms. Reference prices from August 2026 for these types of events range from $50,000 to $200,000 COP, but for 2027 it's recommended to check directly with each venue.
For free events, the recommendation is clear: arrive at least two hours early if you want a good spot. Attendance is massive and the beach fills up quickly.
How to get to Santa Marta
Getting to Santa Marta is easier than many think. Here are the main options:
By plane
The Aeropuerto Internacional Simón Bolívar (SMR) receives direct flights from Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and several cities in the region. From the airport, which is about 15-20 minutes from the center, you can take a taxi or a ride-hailing service. The average fare ranges from $25,000 to $35,000 COP depending on the area.
By bus
If you're coming from the coast or inland, the Terminal de Transportes de Santa Marta has connections to the whole country. From Barranquilla it's approximately 2 hours, from Cartagena about 4 hours, and from Bogotá between 14 and 16 hours. Companies like Copetran and Berlinas del Fonce cover these routes frequently.
By car
The Vía 40 and the Ruta del Sol connect Santa Marta to the rest of the country. If you're driving, keep in mind that during the Fiesta del Mar there are road closures in the center and on the avenida del Mar, so it's best to leave your vehicle at your accommodation and get around on foot or by motorcycle.
Tips for attendees
Here are the tips any local would give you, no filter:
Where to stay
The city fills up completely during the Fiesta del Mar, so book at least a month in advance. The best areas to be close to the action are:
- Centro Histórico: perfect if you want a bohemian vibe with bars and restaurants at hand. You're a 10-minute walk from the beach.
- Bello Horizonte and Rodadero: closer to the tourist beaches, ideal if you're coming with family or looking for hotels with pools.
