What makes the celebration special
Wearing yellow underwear is a popular superstition; another vivid custom is the Año Viejo, a stuffed figure representing the departing year. Some families burn such figures to let go of difficulties or memories. These are folk practices, not formal requirements, and municipal fire regulations matter more than spectacle. Wish neighbors ¡Feliz Año Nuevo! and ask about their family's version of the ritual.
Where to experience it
Cartagena's walled old city provides a historic Caribbean setting, with plazas and colonial architecture that are rewarding by day. Medellín has a distinctive festive-light tradition and neighborhoods worth exploring well beyond the countdown. They are separate destinations, and visitors should choose one region rather than attempting both at midnight.
Planning a memorable New Year visit
Book festive meals and authorized events well ahead of the date. Do not burn home-made figures or use illegal fireworks; use any public display organized by qualified operators. Warm coastal evenings and cooler highland nights call for different clothing and plans.
Good to know before you go
The Año Viejo tradition is shared in parts of Latin America and can include satire or public art. Its meaning and permitted form vary across communities.
Holiday plans are affected by weather, permits, crowd limits, local customs and transport schedules. Use this guide to understand the tradition, then confirm exact details for the year of your trip with the responsible event organizer or tourism authority.