Columbia+Cultures+and+Traditions

=Columbian Cultures and Traditions= Colombia culture is very bright and very colorful. Colombia culture is influenced by a couple of other cultures. Besides the culture of the native people, there have been lots of other European races living in Colombia and all of them has colored the main culture of this South American country, Colombia. Here is some information...

**Ethnic Groups:** mestizo 58%, white 20%, mulatto 14%, black 4%, mixed black-Amerindian 3%, Amerindian 1%

**Religion:** Roman Catholic 90%, other 10% Most Colombians consider themselves Catholic.

**Music of Colombia** Music is one of the best ways to express any culture. The Colombian culture contains a variety of music genres. Song and dance accompany the special events of common man's life. Cumbia, one of the genres of Colombian music, is a blend of the African and the Spanish music. Salsa, born in Puerto Rica and Cuba, became popular in Colombia. Champeta, Abozao, Juga, Pilon, Porro, Seis, Socca and Tambora are some of the other music genres of the different parts of Colombia. The Colombian music of the present times includes hip-hop, pop and rock music. Shakira, a prominent name in the music industry, is from Colombia.

**Festivals of Colombia** The carnivals held on various occasions form a major part of the festivities of Colombia. Cali Fair, held towards the end of December, The Flowers Fair, characterized by the flowers parade, Rock at the park, inviting the participation of rock bands and the traditionally celebrated Carnival of Blacks and Whites are some of the popular Colombian fiestas.

New Year's Day - January 1st

Epiphany - January 6th or the following Monday

Saint Joseph's Day - March 19th or the following Monday

Holy Thursday - April 13, 2006

Labor Day in Colombia - May 1st

Ascencion Day - June 5th or the following Monday

Saints Peter and Paul Day - June 30th or the following Monday *

Colombia Independence Day - July 20th

Battle of Boyaca Day - August 7th

Colombian Heritage Day / Columbus Day - October 12th or the following Monday *

Immaculate Conception Day - December 8th

Christmas - December 25th