Experience the November 11th Festivities from the heart of the walled city
Cartagena Independence Festivities (November 11th) 2026 — stay steps away from the event, right in the Old Town.
Cartagena Independence Festivities (November 11th) 2026
The November 11th Independence Festivities are Cartagena's biggest and most authentic celebration: a week of cabildos, street troupes, gaita music, champeta and parades that takes over the Old Town and Getsemaní. In 2026 they run November 6–12 under the theme “La fiesta que nos une” (the celebration that unites us).
The Ethnic Thematic Hotel sits on Calle de la Moneda, right in the Old Town — steps from the parade route, the Getsemaní cabildo and the squares where the party comes alive. No taxis, no waiting, no transfers: walk out the door and you're in the middle of it.
It's an adults-only boutique hotel, perfect for soaking up the street energy by day and retreating to a quiet, air-conditioned room by night. November fills up fast in Cartagena: booking early is the difference between staying in the center or far from everything.
Highlights
Program based on the official agenda; dates may change.
Regional Gaita Festival
Nov 1–4The sound of gaita flutes and drums sets the festive mood in the days leading up to the 11th.
Popular Pageant & Swimsuit Parade
Nov 7One of the most beloved and colorful traditions of the city's popular festivities.
Solemn Session, Floral Offering & Serenade
Nov 11The central day: Cartagena's 1811 Declaration of Independence is commemorated with events across the Old Town.
Grand Independence Parade
Nov 12The grand finale, with thousands of performers, troupes and cabildos parading through the city.
Nautical Festival in the Bay
Nov 13–14The huge concert on the water, right beside the Old Town. It has its own page with all the details.
Why stay here for Cartagena Independence Festivities (November 11th)?
Steps from the parades
On Calle de la Moneda, El Centro, right on the route of the cabildos and troupes. Walk to the party and back to rest without relying on taxis in a gridlocked city.
A quiet adults-only retreat
The street buzzes, but your room is a cool, calm place to recharge. Adults-only themed hotel in a colonial house in the center.
Beach club included
Between celebrations, enjoy free access to our beach club in Bocagrande: a pool by the sea to recover your energy.
Best price booking direct
Book on the official site for the best guaranteed price, with no OTA fees and 24/7 express check-in for arrivals at any hour.
Your base for the festivities
Rooms with a colonial balcony and air conditioning to rest between events.
King with Balcony
Our flagship room: King bed and a private balcony overlooking the center's colonial façades.
Double with Balcony
A wooden balcony opening straight onto the Old Town street, to soak up the city's color.
Beach club included in Bocagrande
Between events, recharge at our beach club: a pool by the sea and a lounge area, with free access for guests. Transfer to Bocagrande is at the guest's expense.
Frequently asked questions
When are Cartagena's Independence Festivities in 2026?
The official 2026 program for the November 11th Festivities runs from November 6 to 12, with November 11 as the central day commemorating Cartagena's Independence (1811). Some events, such as the Nautical Festival (Nov 13–14) and the Getsemaní cabildo, extend into the following days. Dates are based on the municipal agenda and may change.
Where should I stay for the November Festivities?
The Old Town or Getsemaní are ideal, since that's where the cabildos, troupes and parades happen. The Ethnic Thematic Hotel is on Calle de la Moneda, right in the center, steps from the route — so you avoid transfers and taxis in a city that gets very congested during the festivities.
Is the hotel near the Grand Parade and the Getsemaní cabildo?
Yes. The hotel is in El Centro, a short walk from both the Grand Independence Parade route and the Getsemaní neighborhood, home to its famous cabildo.
How far in advance should I book for November?
The earlier the better. November is high season in Cartagena and accommodation in the Old Town sells out weeks ahead. Booking early secures your rate and a location in the heart of the festivities.
Is it a family hotel?
The Ethnic Thematic Hotel is an adults-only boutique hotel: no minors are admitted. It's ideal for couples and groups of friends who want to enjoy the festivities and rest in a calm setting.
Also that week
Book your spot for Cartagena Independence Festivities (November 11th) 2026
24/7 express check-in · Best price booking direct
November sells out: secure your room in the heart of the festivities.