Travel and celebrate Saint Joseph's Day in Colombia
Saint Joseph's Day is one of the most anticipated holidays in March in Colombia. This date is traditionally celebrated on March 19th in honor of Saint Joseph, an important figure in Christian tradition and recognized as the husband of the Virgin Mary and the adoptive father of Jesus. In Colombia, thanks to the Emiliani Law, the holiday is usually moved to the nearest Monday, creating a perfect long weekend to relax, spend time with family, or plan a weekend getaway.
Take advantage of this holiday to travel and discover new destinations in Colombia. With redBus, you can buy your tickets easily and quickly, and if you use the code TUPODER (terms and conditions apply), you can save up to 50% on your bus tickets to make the most of this long weekend. ✨
What is Saint Joseph's Day and why is it a holiday?
Saint Joseph's Day is a religious celebration honoring Saint Joseph, considered in Christian tradition to be the husband of the Virgin Mary and the adoptive father of Jesus. This feast day is traditionally celebrated on March 19th and highlights values associated with him, such as faith, humility, hard work, and the protection of the family. Jesus and the Virgin Mary are part of this tradition known as the Holy Family.
In Colombia, this date is also a national holiday. Although its religious celebration is on March 19th, the day off is usually moved to the nearest Monday thanks to the Emiliani Law, a regulation that shifts some holidays to create long weekends. This measure aims to facilitate rest for workers and promote activities such as tourism and travel within the country.
For this reason, Saint Joseph's Day has become not only a religious holiday but also one of the first long weekends of the year in Colombia, ideal for relaxing, spending time with family, or traveling.
Destinations to travel for Saint Joseph's Day
Cartagena 🌴
Cartagena is one of the most popular destinations in Colombia thanks to its mix of history, culture, and Caribbean beaches. The city is famous for its Walled City, colorful colonial streets, and iconic landmarks such as San Felipe de Barajas Castle, one of the most important fortresses built during the Spanish colonial era.
San Andrés 🏝️
San Andrés is a favorite destination for travelers who want to enjoy the Caribbean Sea. The island is known for its famous “Sea of Seven Colors,” a natural phenomenon that creates unique turquoise shades. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, boat tours, or island sightseeing while experiencing Caribbean culture and local cuisine.
Santa Marta 🌅
Santa Marta, known as the “Pearl of America,” combines beaches, history, and nature in one destination. From this city, visitors can explore iconic places such as Tayrona National Natural Park, famous for its jungle landscapes and pristine beaches, or relax at El Rodadero, one of the most popular beach areas in the region.
Medellín and Guatapé 🏞️
Medellín is a modern and vibrant city with a wide cultural, gastronomic, and entertainment scene. Nearby is Guatapé, one of the most colorful towns in Colombia, famous for its decorated baseboards (zócalos) and El Peñol Rock, a massive monolith that offers spectacular views of the surrounding reservoir and landscapes.
Villa de Leyva 🏛️
Villa de Leyva is one of the best-preserved colonial towns in Colombia and an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway. Its cobblestone streets and enormous Plaza Mayor transport visitors back in time, as the town has maintained much of its colonial architecture for centuries.
Colombian gastronomy: typical flavors of each region
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🍽️ Bandeja Paisa: One of Colombia’s most emblematic dishes, especially from the Paisa region. This hearty platter includes rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón (crispy pork belly), chorizo, fried egg, plantain, arepa, and avocado, offering a mix of flavors and textures that showcase the country’s culinary traditions.
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🍜 Ajiaco: A traditional Bogotá soup made with chicken, three types of potatoes, corn, and the herb guasca, served with cream, capers, and avocado. It’s one of the most beloved and comforting dishes in central Colombia.
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🥟 Empanadas and Arepas: Colombian empanadas are deep‑fried corn turnovers usually stuffed with beef, chicken, or cheese and often served with ají sauce. Arepas are corn cakes that can be grilled or fried and enjoyed on their own or as an accompaniment to many meals.
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🍛 Sancocho: A classic Colombian stew made with meat (such as chicken, beef, or fish), yuca (cassava), plantains, corn, and vegetables. Each region has its own version, but all share a rich, comforting broth often served with rice and avocado.
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🍖 Lechona: A festive dish originally from the Tolima region, consisting of a whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, onions, and spices. It’s traditionally served at celebrations and is deeply rooted in Colombian food culture.
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🍤 Cazuela de Mariscos: A flavorful seafood stew from Colombia’s coastal regions, made with a variety of seafood like shrimp, fish, and shellfish cooked in a creamy coconut milk base with spices and herbs.
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🍠 Calentado: A popular breakfast dish made by reheating leftovers such as rice, beans, and meats (often served with egg and arepa on top). The dish is a staple in many Colombian households and showcases the practical, comforting side of the country’s cuisine.
Travel throughout Colombia on Saint Joseph's Day