The Night of Candles is a very Colombian tradition. We tell you in which countries it is not celebrated and why this date is so unique.
Every year, Colombia celebrates the iconic December 7 with thousands of candles that mark the official start of Christmas. However, something that many wonder is: is this tradition lived in other countries? The short answer is no. Although there are similar religious celebrations, the famous “Candle Night” as it is known in Colombia, it is a tradition practically exclusive to the country. Here we tell you in which places it is not celebrated, why it happens and how the date is experienced outside the national territory.
What is celebrated on December 7 in Colombia?
Although the religious basis of December 7 is linked to the Catholic celebration of the Immaculate Conception, The way the date is lived in Colombia, with candles, lanterns, street decorations, family gatherings and festivities, has no direct equivalent in other countries.
In countries with a Catholic tradition such as Spain, Mexico, Peru, Ecuador or Italy, the celebration of the Immaculate Conception does exist, but Candles are not lit or streets lit up as happens in Colombia. Each country experiences the date differently and in many places it goes almost unnoticed or is limited to religious ceremonies.
More news:How did the Colombian group fare in the 2026 World Cup? In these cities he will play
In which places is candlelight day celebrated?
The Night of the Candles is not part of the culture or official traditions in most of the world. These are some examples:
• European countries: France, Germany, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Portugal, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and others do not have any celebration on December 7.
• United States and Canada: There is no tradition related to candles that day, the Christmas season begins with Thanksgiving.
• Asian and Middle Eastern countries: Japan, China, Korea, India, Saudi Arabia, Israel and Indonesia do not recognize this date and their December festivities follow other calendars or religions.
• African countries: With the exception of some nations with a Catholic tradition where there are masses, no one lights candles or celebrates like in Colombia.
• Oceania countries: Australia and New Zealand also do not have a similar tradition.
In most of these places, the date passes as a normal day without any special celebration.
You may be interested in:Australia bans social networks for minors under 16 years of age: this is how the law will work
What happens to Colombians abroad?
Although the 7 of candles does not officially exist outside of Colombia, thousands of Colombians in other countries keepLive the tradition on your own. In cities like Madrid, Miami, New York, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Santiago or London, it is common to find meetings of Colombian communities who light candles in parks, houses or cultural centers.
For many, this ritual is a way of reconnect with your country, share with other migrants and give welcome Christmas with a little piece of home. The tradition not only travels with them, but also arouses curiosity among foreigners who, upon learning about it, join the celebration.
