About Colombia Holidays & Observances
Public holidays in Colombia (frequently termed feriados nacionales locally) represent dates defined by government legislation to provide workers and schools with paid time off. These holidays are deeply rooted in the nation's civic, historical, and religious fabric.
Whether celebrating foundational national acts like Independence, honoring local heroes, or observing significant spiritual and seasonal celebrations, the Colombia holiday calendar is highly diverse. When holidays fall on weekends, businesses and government authorities often declare a substitute public holiday on the preceding Friday or following Monday to extend long weekends.
Planning Around Long Weekends
Long weekends are marked in amber shading in the table above. These days represent exceptional high-ROI travel and relaxation periods. Planning holiday logistics ahead of time can unlock maximum efficiency for personal and family travel schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions — Colombia Public Holidays
Colombia has 18 public holidays per year, placing it among the top countries globally for paid days off.
The Emiliani Law (Law 51 of 1983) dictates that ten mid-week holidays are automatically shifted to the following Monday to boost domestic tourism.