Carnival of Blacks and Whites

May 2026
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May 2026
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Black and White Carnival with redBus

The Black and White Carnival is one of Colombia's most traditional and colorful celebrations. Held every year in San Juan de Pasto, Nariño, it brings together thousands of people who enjoy music, parades, paint and talcum powder fights, art, and a profound expression of cultural identity.

 

Travel to Pasto by bus with redBus and use the promo code HORADEVIAJE to save up to 20% on your first trip (Terms and Conditions apply) and experience this unique festival firsthand.

What is the Carnival of Blacks and Whites?

The Carnival of Blacks and Whites is a festival of ancestral origin that blends Indigenous, Hispanic, and African traditions. Celebrated every year between the end of December and the first days of January, it has been declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

 

During the celebration, participants paint themselves black on January 5th and white on January 6th, symbolizing equality, diversity, and coexistence among different cultural groups.

When is it celebrated?

The Carnival usually takes place between January 2nd and 7th each year, with a schedule of events that includes pre-carnival activities, parades, troupes, water games, floats, and music in the streets of Pasto.

How to get to Pasto by bus?

You can travel from various cities in Colombia. The bus is an ideal option for those who want to enjoy the country's scenery and go directly to the heart of the Carnival. Companies with frequent routes offer comfortable and safe services for your trip. Book on redBus, compare prices and schedules, choose your seat, and travel with peace of mind to the Carnival of Blacks and Whites.

How to get to Pasto by bus to enjoy the Carnival of Blacks and Whites?
RouteApproximate distanceTrip duration
Cali (Vac) to Pasto (Nar)270 km.9 hours and 30 minutes
Medellin (Ant) to Pasto (Nar)816 km.19 hours
Tumaco (Nar) to Pasto (Nar)276 km.7 hours
Puerto Asis (Put) to Pasto (Nar)150 km.8 hours
Barbacoas (Nar) to Pasto (Nar)217 km.10 hours
La Cruz (Nar) to Pasto (Nar)250 km.6 hours

What to do during the Black and White Carnival?

Participate in the face painting:

On Black Day, people paint themselves with black cosmetics in the streets; on White Day, the fun shifts to white talcum powder and powder, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere.

Watch the parade and floats:

Floats created by local artisans travel through the streets with troupes, music, dancing, and vibrant colors.

Enjoy traditional music and dances:

Dances, rhythms, and artistic expressions unique to the region accompany the entire celebration.

Experience cultural exchange:

This festival represents unity, diversity, and equality among peoples and is considered a moment of collective celebration open to locals and visitors alike.

 

Tips for your trip to the Black and White Carnival

🚌 Buy your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

 

📲 Use the code HORADEVIAJE for a discount on your first trip.

 

🎨 Wear comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting messy with paint and talcum powder.

 

📸 Take advantage of the opportunity to take photos and experience the festival in all its glory.

 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 If you're traveling in a group, buy multiple tickets in a single transaction.

 

What Is redBus?

redBus is the leading online bus ticket booking platform in Colombia. It allows you to compare prices, schedules, and bus companies in one place, so you can travel comfortably, quickly, and affordably.

With redBus, you can also access exclusive promotions like HORADEVIAJE, valid for a limited time, to save up to 20% on your bus tickets and enjoy your gastronomic and cultural trips across Colombia

How to Buy Bus Tickets on redBus?

1) Visit redBus via the website or app

2) Choose your origin and destination

3) Select your travel date in December

4) Compare schedules, prices, and services

5) Add your promo code HORADEVIAJE

6) Pay securely and receive your bus tickets

FAQs

How do I use the HORADEVIAJE code on redBus?

During the payment process on redBus.co or in the app, enter the code HORADEVIAJE. It's valid for new users and offers up to 20% savings on your bus tickets.

How long can I use the HORADEVIAJE code?

The promotion is valid for a limited time or while supplies last. We recommend buying your tickets in advance to take advantage of the discount.

Can I travel to any destination with the promo?

Yes, the code applies to various destinations within Colombia. However, it depends on the transportation companies participating in the promotion.

How much can I save?

You can save up to 20%, depending on the transportation company and availability at the time of your purchase.

Can I buy multiple tickets at once?

Yes, redBus allows you to buy multiple tickets in a single transaction, ideal for group or family trips.

Do I receive my tickets by email?

Yes, your digital tickets are sent directly to your registered email address and you can also view them in the redBus app.

Do I need to print my ticket?

This depends on the transportation company you choose, as some require a printed ticket, while others only require you to show the confirmation email sent to your address.

What if I need to change or cancel my ticket?

You can do this through the redBus platform, provided the transportation company allows it. When purchasing your ticket, be sure to review the specific change and cancellation policies of your chosen company.

Can I travel with children?

Yes, this is a family-friendly event and many attend with their families. However, to travel with minors, you should check the requirements of each company.

Do children need tickets?

Yes. Children traveling in their own seat must have their own bus ticket, just like any adult. Exceptions may only apply in specific cases defined by each transportation company, so it is recommended to check the conditions before traveling.