Columbus Day, known in Colombia as "Día de la Raza", which translates to "Day of the Race" and is now formally named the Day of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity, is a celebration that takes place on the first Monday on or after October 12th.
What is the celebration about and why is it important?
Columbus Day symbolizes the blend of cultures that defined the identity of the Americas. In Colombia, this commemoration is an opportunity to value cultural diversity and the indigenous heritage that remains present in today’s society.
Throughout the country, activities are held to highlight the mix of races and cultural exchange, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the roots that shape the historical and ethnic richness of the country. It is also an invitation to reflect on the historical challenges still faced by indigenous and Afro-descendant communities, promoting a dialogue about inclusion and respect for diversity.
History and origins of the celebration
Columbus Day originated from the encounter between Europe and the Americas, beginning with the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492. This event marked the start of an extensive cultural, economic, and social exchange that profoundly transformed both regions, giving rise to what we now know as mixing of cultures, a fusion of cultures that defines the identity of much of Latin America.
In Colombia, the Congress of the Republic decreed October 12 as a national holiday through Article 1 of Law 25 of 1892, to commemorate the "date of the discovery of America by the distinguished Admiral Christopher Columbus." In 1913, Faustino Rodríguez-San Pedro, president of the Ibero-American Union of Madrid, proposed celebrating the "Festival of the Race" as a symbol of unity among Spanish-speaking countries.
Over time, the celebration has evolved to highlight the country’s cultural diversity, promoting a dialogue about inclusion and respect for all cultures that are part of Colombia’s history. It also acknowledges the resilience of indigenous and Afro-descendant communities, who have preserved their traditions despite historical challenges, enriching the country’s cultural identity.
New name: Day of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity
In 2021, Colombia's Ministry of Culture changed the name of the commemoration to "Day of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity of the Colombian Nation." This was done to recognize the cultural plurality of the country, particularly that of the indigenous and Afro-Colombian peoples. With this measure, the old name of "Columbus Day" was left behind, which focused on celebrating the "discovery" of the Americas from a colonial perspective.
The new name aims to highlight the historical and cultural contributions of these communities, who have played a key role in nation-building. The Ministry of Culture emphasizes that this change aligns with the constitutional recognition of Colombia as a multi-ethnic and multicultural nation, stressing the importance of valuing diversity and fostering respect for all cultures.
This change is also part of a broader movement in the region. Countries such as Argentina and Bolivia have made similar changes in their commemorations of October 12, seeking to redefine this date to highlight the value of ethnic and cultural diversity rather than traditional colonial narratives.
Countries that celebrate Columbus Day
Columbus Day is celebrated in several countries across Latin America, Spain, and the United States, albeit with different names and approaches depending on the region.
Spain: Celebrates Hispanic Day on October 12, commemorating Spanish cultural expansion and the historical ties with Latin America.
Mexico: Here it is celebrated as National Pluricultural Day, highlighting the cultural richness of the country and the importance of ethnic diversity.
Argentina: Since 2010, October 12 is Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity. This change aims to emphasize the importance of indigenous cultures and their influence on national history.
Venezuela: Commemorates Indigenous Resistance Day, recognizing the legacy and struggle of native peoples.
Chile: Known as Day of the Encounter of Two Worlds, the celebration emphasizes cultural exchange between Europe and the Americas and recognition of indigenous peoples.
Bolivia: Celebrated as Decolonization Day, a name change made in 2011 to highlight the importance of indigenous cultures in the country’s history and promote a more inclusive and plurinational approach.
Ecuador: Celebrates Day of Interculturality and Plurinationality, highlighting cultural diversity and the recognition of different nations within the country.
Nicaragua: October 12 is the Day of Indigenous, Black, and Popular Resistance, with the aim of honoring the struggle of indigenous and Afro-descendant peoples.
Uruguay: Celebrates Day of Cultural Diversity, recognizing the importance of ethnic and cultural plurality in national identity.
Costa Rica: Known as Day of Cultures, a name that reflects the country’s cultural diversity and history.
United States: In some parts of the country, like California, Indigenous Peoples’ Day is celebrated to acknowledge the legacy and culture of native peoples, while in other regions it is still observed as Columbus Day.
What to do on Columbus Day?
Check the agenda of museums, libraries, or local government offices. During the week, cultural and civic events such as exhibitions, conferences, and activities related to the country's diversity and history are scheduled.
Take advantage of the long weekend to visit a municipality. The country's festival programming is extensive, including sports activities, festivals, pageants, and street performances. It is estimated that during these days, more than four million vehicles travel on the country’s roads.
Visit the Monument to the Race, created by Colombian sculptor Rodrigo Arenas Betancur, located in the plaza of the Administrative Center La Alpujarra in Medellin. This impressive work of art symbolizes Colombia's ethnic diversity.
Young people can participate in educational or recreational activities organized by schools and universities. These events include cultural performances, talks, and exhibitions that invite reflection on history and mixing of cultures.
Enjoy food festivals in different regions of the country, featuring traditional dishes that celebrate the diverse cultures that make up Colombia’s social fabric.
Columbus Day as a public holiday in Colombia
Columbus Day has been a public holiday in Colombia since 1940, established by Law 35 of December 1939. Initially, it was always celebrated on October 12, regardless of the day of the week. However, with the implementation of Law Emiliani (Law 85 of 1983), this holiday began to be moved to the following Monday if October 12 did not fall on a Monday, in line with the policy of moving certain public holidays to Monday to encourage tourism and boost the country’s economy.
This day has an important feature, as it ends one of the two longest periods of the year without public holidays. The previous holiday is Assumption of the Virgin, celebrated in August. The other long period without public holidays occurs between Epiphany in January and St. Joseph’s Day in March. Because of this, many Colombians take advantage of the Columbus Day long weekend to engage in leisure activities, travel, or gather with family and friends.
For some people, this long weekend becomes an ideal opportunity to take a vacation, as it often coincides with the School Break Week, a period when students from schools and universities have a break from classes. This makes it easier for many families to plan trips or longer activities.
Therefore, Columbus Day, or the Day of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity, is not only a historical and cultural celebration but also an important date for rest, tourism, and recreational activities in Colombia.
Representation of the Day of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity (festivos.com.co)
