This question echoes in the minds of those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in a universe of magic, culture and tradition. The answer, fortunately, is as vast as the sky that shelters this charming Colombian town. For this reason, in this blog post we will tell you about all the activities that take place throughout the year in Villa de Leyva.
Actividades en Villa de Leyva: All their festivals
Throughout the year, Villa de Leyva invites you to experience a myriad of experiences that will captivate you from the very first moment. Prepare to discover a calendar full of events that will make you vibrate to the rhythm of music, delight you with unique flavors, contemplate colorful shows, and immerse yourself in this magical place’s rich history and traditions.
Actividades y festivales en Villa de Leyva 2024
Actividades en Villa de Leyva: March 2024.
Astronomy Festival (March 15-17, 2024)
From March 15 to 17, the picturesque town of Villa de Leyva was transformed into a portal to the stars with the celebration of the 27th Astronomy Festival. This year, the event had a special flavor, as China, an emerging country in the field of astronomy and astronautics, was the guest of honor.
Vitrina ANATO Bogotá (1 al 3 de marzo de 2024)
At the 2024 ANATO Tourism Showcase, Villa de Leyva presents itself as an unmissable destination for lovers of culture, nature, and adventure. Visitors will be able to discover a wide range of tourist attractions that include:
- Tours of the historic center: Discover the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral, the Paleontological Museum, the Luis Antonio Cuervo House Museum, and other emblematic sites.
- Visits to artisan workshops: Appreciate the talent of local artisans and purchase unique souvenirs.
- Outdoor activities: Enjoy ecological walks, horseback riding, paragliding, and other adventure sports.
- Tasting of local gastronomy: Savor the delicious typical dishes of the region, such as Boyacá tamale, ajiaco, and curd dessert.
Actividades en Villa de Leyva: April 2024.
Holy Week in Villa de Leyva (April 5-8, 2024)
Experience the religious and cultural traditions of Holy Week in Villa de Leyva. Participate in processions, witness theatrical performances, and enjoy an atmosphere of reflection and spirituality.
Ancient Music (April 20-22, 2024)
Step back in time and enjoy classical music at this festival featuring concerts of Baroque, Renaissance, and Medieval music.
Cultural Pilgrimage (April 28-30)
Celebrate the culture and traditions of Villa de Leyva in this pilgrimage that invites you to walk through the streets of the town, enjoy local music, dance and gastronomy.
Actividades en villa de Leyva: May 2024.
Flavors and Knowledge – Gastronomy (May 25-27, 2024)
Beyond tasting, the Encounter of Flavors and Knowledge Festival in Villa de Leyva is a tribute to the region’s culinary tradition. Witness live demonstrations where expert artisans will show you the art of making cheese, weaving baskets, or preparing typical sweets. Participate in workshops where you will learn to prepare ancestral dishes under the guidance of local chefs. Discover the secrets of sustainable agriculture and the importance of preserving local products.
¿Qué hacer en villa de Leyva: June 2024?
Foundation Anniversary – Villa de Leyva’s Birthday (June 10-12, 2024)
The cobblestone streets of Villa de Leyva will be adorned to welcome locals and visitors alike who will immerse themselves in an outpouring of culture and tradition. The notes of typical Boyacense music will fill the air, while the colorful costumes will adorn the locals who will contagiously spread their festive spirit.
Local gastronomy will be the star of this birthday. Delicious typical dishes that will delight the most demanding palates. A banquet of flavors that will allow us to discover the essence of Boyacense cuisine, a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
Band Festival (June 15-17, 2024)
More than just a competition, this festival becomes an ode to music, a space where the pentagram transforms into a canvas where the identity of a people is captured. From June 15 to 17, musical notes will invade the peaceful atmosphere of Villa de Leyva, infecting locals and visitors with joy and rhythm.
A Stage Without Borders
The festival will open its doors to bands from all over the country, inviting them to take the stage and share their passion for music. Each performance will be a sonic journey through Colombia’s cultural diversity, from traditional symphonic bands to vibrant wind and percussion ensembles.
Activities in Villa de Leyva: July 2024
Jazz Festival Villa de Leyva (June 30 – July 2, 2024)
Villa de Leyva, the colonial jewel of Boyacá, gets ready to groove to the rhythm of jazz at its 14th International Jazz Festival, an unmissable event for lovers of this musical genre that will be held from June 30 to July 2, 2024.
In this edition, the festival is pleased to present an exceptional program that brings together world-class artists from different corners of the planet, along with local promesas who will surprise with their talent and freshness.
Traditional Festivities in Honor of the Virgin of Carmen (July 13-17, 2024)
From July 13th to 17th, 2024, the historic town of Villa de Leyva will be adorned with fervor and color to celebrate the Traditional Festivities in Honor of the Virgen del Carmen, patron saint of transporters and a symbol of faith and hope for the Colombian people. This year, the festivities promise to be even more special, as they commemorate the 379th anniversary of the arrival of the image of the Virgen del Carmen to this magical town.
A Tribute to Faith and Tradition
The festivities begin with the traditional solemn Mass in honor of the Virgin of Carmen, which is celebrated in the Nuestra Señora del Rosario Parish Church. Then, the streets of the town come alive with crowded processions, where the image of the Virgin travels through the main squares and avenues, accompanied by devout faithful, brass bands, and folk groups.
A Spectacle of Culture and Joy
The Fiestas de la Virgen del Carmen are an explosion of culture and joy. During these days, various cultural events are held, such as the Folkloric and Spinners Festival, where you can appreciate typical dances of the region, demonstrations of the art of spinning and displays of local crafts.
A Family Gathering to Enjoy
Holidays are also an opportunity to enjoy with family and friends. In the Plazuela del Carmen, mechanical rides, traditional games, and food stalls are set up, where you can taste typical dishes from the region. In addition, concerts, popular fairs, and fireworks displays are organized, filling the night sky of Villa de Leyva with color and joy.
Folklore and Spinners Festival (July 15, 2024)
From August 15 to 17, 2024, the Plaza Mayor of Villa de Leyva will be transformed into a dreamlike setting, displaying Colombian folklore in all its splendor. Traditional dance groups, musical comparsas, and colorful costumes will fill the atmosphere with joy and contagion to all those present.
But this festival is not just about music and dance. It is also an opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of the spinners, those artisan women who with their skillful hands turn wool into works of textile art. Demonstrative workshops, exhibitions, and the sale of handicrafts will allow us to appreciate the richness of this ancestral tradition and take a piece of Villa de Leyva home.
Poetry Festival (July 2024)
A magical encounter where words rise as kites and verses intertwine in the fresh mountain air. The Villa de Leyva 2024 Poetry Festival invites you to immerse yourself in a universe of letters, emotions and sounds that will awaken your sensitivity and fill your soul with inspiration.
Get ready to enjoy:
- Poetry readings in emblematic places of the town: Stroll through the streets and be surprised by poetry recited in unexpected corners, from the majestic Plaza Mayor to cozy bookstores and cafes.
- Workshops and talks with renowned poets: Participate in these spaces for learning and interaction, where you can delve into the art of poetry and dialogue with the masters of the word.
- Book presentations and literary launches: Discover the latest news from the publishing world and meet the authors who are shaping the current poetic landscape.
- Musical and artistic performances: Let yourself be carried away by the magic of music and art in presentations that will complement the poetic experience and fill your senses with new sensations.
- Meetings with local artists: Get closer to the vibrant artistic scene of Villa de Leyva and discover the talent of poets, musicians, artisans, and other creators who inhabit this magical town.
¿What to do in Villa de Leyva: August 2024?
Kite and Wind Festival (August 17-19, 2024)
From August 17th to 19th, 2024, the tranquil town of Villa de Leyva will transform into a sea of colors and joy during the Festival del Viento y las Cometas (Wind and Kite Festival). This event, which has been held for over four decades, brings together thousands of passionate kite flyers and spectators to celebrate the magic of flight and the connection with nature.
More than a Kite Competition, an Experience in Villa de Leyva
Beyond being a simple competition, the Wind and Kite Festival is a sensory experience that captivates all the senses. The skies fill with kites of all shapes and sizes, from traditional delta kites to imposing inflatable structures, creating an unparalleled visual spectacle.
A display of creativity and talent
The diverse categories of the festival test the creativity and talent of the participants. From meticulously crafted artisanal kites to intricate designs that defy the laws of aerodynamics, each kite represents a unique work of art that graces the skies with grace and skill.
A Family-Friendly Event
The festival offers a fun space for the whole family. The little ones can enjoy kite-making workshops, children’s competitions, and puppet shows, while adults will delight in the beauty of the spectacle and the adrenaline of the competitions.
A Perfect Setting to Connect with Nature
The incomparable setting of Villa de Leyva, with its colonial architecture and cozy atmosphere, becomes the perfect setting for this festival. A space where nature and culture come together to create a memorable experience.
Actividades en villa de Leyva: September 2024
Family Festival (September 14-16, 2024)
The Family Festival 2024 is coming to Villa de Leyva, a unique event that promises unforgettable moments for all ages. From September 14 to 16, the historic main square will be transformed into a stage of joy, where family togetherness will be the star of the show.
A journey through time for the whole family
Enjoy a journey through time through the recreation of the colonial era, with typical characters, traditional music and ancestral games. The little ones will be able to participate in craft workshops, storytelling and playful activities that will awaken their imagination.
Flavors to delight the palate
Embark on a gastronomic journey through the most authentic flavors of the region. Taste exquisite typical dishes, handmade sweets and fresh products grown in the area.
Villa del Cine Festival (September 25-28, 2024)
From September 25th to 28th, 2024, the magical town of Villa de Leyva will once again be adorned to welcome the Villa del Cine Festival, an unmissable event for lovers of independent cinema and new audiovisual narratives. In its tenth edition, the festival is preparing to captivate attendees with a diverse and high-quality program, inviting them to immerse themselves in a universe of stories, emotions, and emerging talents.
A Unique Setting
Beyond the screenings, the Villa del Cine Festival offers a unique experience that integrates the charm of the town with the magic of cinema. Cobblestone streets, colonial plazas and corners full of history become alternative venues for the screenings, creating an unparalleled atmosphere that envelops the spectators in each cinematographic proposal.
A Journey Around the World Through Cinema
The official selection of the festival brings together a careful curation of short films and feature films from Colombia and various parts of the world. Stories that reflect different realities, cultures and perspectives, inviting the public to reflect, be moved and broaden their vision of the world through the cinematographic lens.
A Space for Exchange and Training
In addition to the screenings, the Villa del Cine Festival offers a comprehensive program of workshops, conferences, talks and special events, where filmmakers, critics, students and the general public can dialogue, exchange ideas and delve into the world of independent cinema.
¿Qué hacer en Villa de Leyva: October 2024?
Tree Festival (October 13-15, 2024)
In the heart of Colombia, amidst colonial charm and natural exuberance, a celebration is being prepared that goes beyond mere festivities. This is the Villa de Leyva Tree Festival 2024, an event that not only pays homage to the majesty of these living beings but also becomes a call to action for the preservation of the environment and the construction of a greener future.
More Than a Festival: This year, the Tree Festival goes beyond being an exhibition of flora and fauna. It becomes a platform for environmental education, citizen awareness, and the promotion of sustainable practices. Workshops, conferences, talks, and interactive activities will fill the peaceful Villa de Leyva with knowledge and environmental awareness.
An Encounter with Nature: Strolling through the colorful stands of the festival will be a journey through Colombian biodiversity. From ornamental trees to fruit trees and native species, each species will tell a story of adaptation, beauty, and resilience. Visitors will be able to acquire new specimens for their homes and gardens, thus contributing to reforestation and the beautification of their communities.
A Space for the Family: The Tree Festival is a celebration for the whole family. The little ones will enjoy outdoor recreational activities while learning about the importance of trees and their role in the ecosystem. In addition, there will be musical, theatrical, and gastronomic shows that will fill this encounter with nature with joy and flavor.
Activities in Villa de Leyva December 2024
Festival de Luces (6 – 8 December 2024)
The night sky becomes a canvas where national and international pyrotechnic artists display their talent, creating a show of lights and colors that will leave spectators breathless. Explosions synchronized with music and special effects will transport attendees to a fantasy universe, where imagination knows no bounds.
Come light your candles on December 7th in Villa de Leyva
Come and celebrate the magic of Christmas and spend the Day of Candles in Villa de Leyva on December 7th. Stroll through the cobblestone streets adorned with thousands of lights, enjoy Christmas carols and participate in the traditional aguinaldo mass. For the little ones, there will be games, sweets and special activities. And don’t forget to try the delicious Colombian Christmas cuisine.
Beyond the Fireworks
The Villa de Leyva Festival of Lights 2024 is not just about the fireworks. The entire town is adorned with multicolored lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere that envelops every alleyway and square. Local artisans showcase their products in vibrant stalls, while traditional Colombian music fills the air, inviting everyone to dance and celebrate.
A Family-Friendly Event
This festival is a unique experience for the whole family. The little ones will enjoy the colorful characters that walk the streets, while the adults will delight in the local cuisine and the warmth of the people.
Don’t miss this unique event
If you are looking for a magical and unforgettable experience, don’t miss the Villa de Leyva Festival of Lights 2024. Get ready to be captivated by the light, music, and joy that will flood this colonial town for two unforgettable nights.
Recommendations for attending the Villa de Leyva Festival of Lights
- Plan your trip in advance: The festival attracts thousands of visitors, so it is important to book accommodation and transportation in advance.
- Arrive early: The streets fill up quickly, so we recommend arriving early to secure a good spot to enjoy the show.
- Dress warmly: Nights in Villa de Leyva can be cold, especially in December.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will be walking a lot, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Enjoy the atmosphere: The most important thing is to enjoy the magical atmosphere of the festival and let yourself be carried away by the light and joy.
New Year’s Eve Party in Villa de Leyva (December 31, 2024)
Get ready to welcome 2025 with an explosion of joy and tradition in the heart of Colombia: Villa de Leyva. The magic of this colonial town intensifies during New Year’s Eve, inviting you to live a unique and unforgettable experience.
A dreamlike setting: The imposing Plaza Mayor, adorned with lights and Christmas decorations, will be the epicenter of the celebration. Surrounded by the colonial architecture and the historical charm of the town, this space becomes the perfect setting to welcome the new year.
Pyrotechnic show: A dazzling fireworks show will light up the night sky, marking the beginning of 2025 with a torrent of colors and joy. A spectacle that will leave all spectators speechless.
Toast to a new year: Share a toast with your loved ones and friends, wishing them a year full of success, prosperity and happiness. Unity and joy will be the protagonists of this special night.
More than a party: The New Year’s Eve Party in Villa de Leyva is more than just a celebration. It is an opportunity to connect with local culture, enjoy typical cuisine and experience the magic of one of the most beautiful towns in Colombia.
An event to remember: Don’t miss the opportunity to live a unique and unforgettable experience in Villa de Leyva. See off the old year and welcome the new with joy, music, tradition and the incomparable charm of this colonial town. Get ready for a magical night that you will never forget!
New Year’s Eve Party Recommendations in Villa de Leyva
- Plan your accommodation in advance: High demand during the New Year’s Eve season means that hotels and inns fill up quickly. Book your accommodation well in advance to secure your spot.
- Arrive early: If you want to enjoy a good spot in the square to watch the fireworks show, we recommend arriving early.
- Dress warmly: Nights in Villa de Leyva can be cold, especially in December. Be sure to bring warm clothes to enjoy the party without discomfort.
- Bring cash: Although some establishments accept credit cards, it is recommended to bring cash to avoid inconvenience.
Beyond these highlights, Villa de Leyva offers an endless number of activities to enjoy throughout the year. You can stroll through its cobblestone streets and admire the colonial architecture, visit museums and art galleries, savor the delicious local cuisine, practice outdoor sports, or simply relax and enjoy the unique charm of this town.
Villa de Leyva: A destination that awaits you with open arms to discover a world of unique and unforgettable experiences.
¡Get ready to experience a year full of magic in Villa de Leyva!