The Sea Festival is Santa Marta’s most important cultural event and one of the most anticipated celebrations in the Colombian Caribbean. In 2025, the city will commemorate its 500th anniversary, making this edition a truly historic occasion. If you’re planning to travel to Santa Marta in July, here’s everything you need to know.
What is the Sea Festival?
The Sea Festival pays tribute to the sea and the rich history of Santa Marta. It features a week full of culture, music, gastronomy, sports, and art, attracting thousands of locals and tourists. In 2025, the festival will be held from July 23 to 29, as part of the city’s 500-year anniversary.
Sea Festival 2025 Schedule
This year’s festival will be packed with activities for all tastes. Here are some of the highlights:
Main Events of the Sea Festival
Nautical Agenda
From July 23 to 29, visitors will enjoy a range of water sports: demonstrations, competitions, and traditional sea games on the city’s beaches. Expected attendance: 10,000 national and international athletes. Nautical Activities:
Free Concerts
Enjoy several nights of concerts with top national and international artists on stages open to the public. An estimated 70,000 attendees are expected.
A Celebration You Can’t Miss
CAF Summit
This major event will gather Latin American and Caribbean leaders and diplomats to discuss social and economic development models and regional cooperation.
Gastronomic Festival
A culinary showcase featuring over 30 local and international chefs highlighting Caribbean flavors. Time: 12:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Expected attendance: 35,000 people.
IXEL Moda
One of Colombia’s most prestigious fashion events for over 16 years, IXEL Moda blends fashion, sustainability, and tourism. It will be held at the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino and feature fashion exhibitions, talks, and a grand runway show by designer Hernán Zajar inspired by the city’s 500-year legacy. Attendance: 700 invited premium guests.
Parades
Colorful folkloric and Balleneras parades full of Samarian tradition. Folkloric Parade:
Cultural Agenda: Hay Festival
Santa Marta will host the prestigious literary and arts Hay Festival for the first time, featuring major cultural figures.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sea Festival 2025
Tips for Enjoying the Festival to the Fullest
Tours to Enjoy During the Sea Festival
Magic Tour Colombia offers a variety of tours to enhance your experience in Santa Marta:
Experience the Magic of Santa Marta’s 500 Years
This edition of the Sea Festival will be unlike any other. Celebrating the 500th anniversary of Colombia’s oldest city, Santa Marta is preparing a historic celebration blending past and future, tradition and innovation. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Colombian Caribbean in all its splendor, this is your chance. See you in Santa Marta from July 23 to 29 to celebrate the heart of the sea! Book your visit to this incredible city with Magic Tour Colombia. Book Now