As Colombia’s largest and most anticipated celebration, the Barranquilla Carnival is fast approaching. The festival’s extensive schedule, which has been in motion since January, is a testament to its magnitude. Set to begin on March 1, the carnival spans several key dates throughout the first quarter of the year. Among these, one of the most significant events is the Battle of Flowers.
What is the Battle of Flowers?
According to the Mayor’s Office of Barranquilla, the Battle of Flowers is “the emblematic parade of the Barranquilla Carnival.” This grand procession is a central feature of the festival, drawing massive crowds each year.
What is the Origin of the Battle of Flowers?
The Battle of Flowers has a history spanning more than 120 years. It was first introduced in 1903 by General Heriberto Vengoechea to celebrate the end of the Thousand Days' War. Designed as a symbol of peace, the event redefined the meaning of the word “battle”, transforming it into a spectacle of joy, tradition, and culture.
When is the 2025 Battle of Flowers in Barranquilla, Colombia?
As confirmed by the Mayor’s Office of Barranquilla, the Battle of Flowers 2025 will take place on March 1.
What to Expect from the 2025 Battle of Flowers?
This year’s parade will feature 18 elaborately designed floats traveling along the ‘Cumbiódromo’ on Vía 40 in Barranquilla. The event is scheduled to begin at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 1. The intricate floats have been created by more than 150 artists, artisans, teachers, and decorators.
“We were inspired by the events of the Barranquilla Carnival, its most representative graphic elements, its colors, and the iconic characters of the festival. In this Cipote Fiesta, we aim to make our floats even more fantastic—honoring tradition while incorporating modernity,” stated Elías Torné, Art and Design Coordinator of the Barranquilla Carnival Organization.
The Battle of Flowers 2025: A Celebration of Culture and Creativity
The floats for the 2025 Battle of Flowers reflect the diverse folklore, traditions, and heritage of the festival while integrating elements of fantasy and innovation. The official lineup includes:
- Old Guard
- Red and White Passion
- On Waves
- Maribot
- Carnival Temple
- Holy Scribble
- Plush Eye Monkey
- Mallor King
- Tormba Farota
- Guayabero
- On the River Bank
- Scribble Mix
- Harlequin Fire
- Saint Lucia
- Very African
- Quillera Forest
- Pachamama
- Of Gold
The Art and Innovation Behind the Floats
The creation of these impressive floats is a collaborative effort between experts including architects, engineers, plastic artists, and designers. Each year, the Float Factory opens its doors to preserve and promote this traditional art form, ensuring that the craftsmanship and creativity of the carnival remain alive.
“Our goal this year is to reduce pollution and create more sustainable floats,” said Sandra Gómez, manager of the Barranquilla Carnival Organization.
Some floats even feature moving elements. For instance, Maribot is a giant marionette capable of moving its limbs, resembling an oversized puppet. Additionally, “Each float is accompanied by musical trailers, specifically designed and built for the national and international orchestras that will perform throughout the parade, making it the most emblematic procession of Colombia’s largest festival,” explained the Mayor’s Office of Barranquilla.
The Battle of Flowers remains one of the most spectacular, colorful, and meaningful highlights of the Barranquilla Carnival, bringing together tradition, artistic expression, and cultural pride in a celebration like no other.
