Bogotá Flower Festival (Feria de las Flores de Bogotá)

About

The Bogotá Flower Festival transforms Colombia's capital into a vibrant wonderland of colorful blooms, traditional music, and lively parades that captivate children and adults alike. This annual August celebration showcases Colombia's rich flower-growing heritage with stunning floral displays, traditional silleteros (flower carriers) parading through the streets, and hands-on activities that engage kids in Colombian culture. It's a sensory feast perfect for families wanting to experience authentic Colombian traditions in a festive, welcoming atmosphere.

What to Expect

Families will experience a multi-day festival with spectacular parades featuring silleteros carrying elaborate flower arrangements on their backs, street performers, live music, and interactive workshops. The historic downtown area comes alive with floral installations, food vendors selling Colombian treats, and cultural performances throughout the day. Kids can participate in flower-arranging workshops, face painting, and traditional games while learning about Colombia's flower industry and indigenous traditions. The atmosphere is festive and family-oriented with plenty of photo opportunities amid the colorful displays.

Highlights for Kids

• Watching the traditional silleteros parade with flower carriers in colorful traditional costumes balancing massive flower arrangements
• Participating in children's flower-arranging workshops where kids create their own mini silletas to take home
• Sampling fresh tropical fruit cups and traditional Colombian snacks from street vendors
• Taking photos in front of massive floral installations and murals throughout the historic center
• Enjoying street performers, musicians, and traditional dancers in colorful costumes

Pro Tips for Families

1. Arrive early in the morning for parades to secure a good viewing spot along Carrera 7 or near Plaza de Bolívar, as prime locations fill up quickly and the midday sun can be intense
2. Download Spanish-English translation apps before arriving and learn basic Spanish phrases, as many vendors and activity leaders may not speak English
3. Bring sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses) and light rain jackets, as Bogotá's August weather can be unpredictable with sudden afternoon showers at this high altitude
4. Exchange currency before the festival days as ATMs in tourist areas may run out of cash, and many street vendors prefer Colombian pesos over cards

Best Time to Visit

Visit during the main parade day (typically the second weekend of August) in the morning between 9 AM and noon for the best weather, smaller crowds, and most energetic performances. Weekday events are less crowded than weekends, making them ideal for families with younger children who need more space and shorter lines for activities.

Food & Drinks

The festival features numerous street food vendors offering kid-friendly Colombian favorites like arepas (corn cakes), empanadas, fresh fruit cups with lime and salt, obleas (wafer cookies), and freshly squeezed tropical juices. Many established restaurants around Plaza de Bolívar and La Candelaria neighborhood offer family-friendly dining with high chairs and children's menus. Bring bottled water as Bogotá's high altitude (8,600 feet) requires extra hydration, and tap water is generally safe but may cause stomach upset for international visitors unaccustomed to it.

Parking & Access

Downtown Bogotá's historic center where most festival events occur has limited parking, so taking Uber, taxi, or the TransMilenio bus rapid transit system is recommended (families can use the system's integrated bike paths with rental bikes available). If driving, use secure paid parking lots (parqueaderos) near Las Aguas or Museo del Oro rather than street parking. Stroller accessibility is challenging due to colonial-era cobblestone streets and crowded sidewalks during festivals, so baby carriers or lightweight umbrella strollers work best. Consider staying in La Candelaria neighborhood to walk to most events.