I came to Medellin just a few days before the start of Feria De Las Flores. The city exploded with flowers everywhere, and there were so many events and displays, it was hard to figure out where to go next. Christmas time has a different feel entirely. There is just as many, if not more, things going on, but it’s not quite as organized by the city. Most things are family oriented, and you’ll even find a different feel in the popular clubs around Parque Lleras. It all just seems slightly hushed.
As I walked with my friends around Rio Medellin a few days ago, I found that I prefer the atmosphere that accompanies the holiday season. I really don’t know how to explain it other than it’s just a different atmosphere. There is a communal hope in the air as everyone is remembering how far they have come in the last year…and the last 15 years.
This city amazes me a little more every day.
Post by Holly. Currently living in Medellin, Holly is getting to know the Colombian culture through music, language, and base jumping!
A different feel in the Parque Lleras clubs? Hard to believe! Enjoy it while you can.
I would love to try some base jumping myself in Medellin. Recommend away. Heck maybe will even do it while intoxicated.
Pleasant holidays
Dave different feel to Parque Llevas! How so mate. Last I was there on November place looked way too pompous for me, except for few like Shots next to Octavia, Jamrock bar and the salsa bar across it. Maybe you know something I dont as I was there for only 6 days. El Blue has nice music, albeit a little too gringo centric. Your take. Happy holidays
Inept –
Maybe Holly can chime in as she’s the one living in Medellin right now. I’m back in the US.
Yes, Parque Lleras continues to expand with more clubs and bars, and I can see how that comes across as pompous, however there’s no denying it’s one of the most popular areas of the city for nightlife. That said, you can easily go to other neighborhoods and see packed bars and clubs, without the gringos. It helps to know some Colombian friends though. Most people going through Medellin for a few days or a week, like you, will go to Parque Lleras because that’s where everyone else goes.
Inept- There is no base jumping in Medellin.
I am not a fan of Lleras. Not because it might be considered pompous, but because when I’m there everyone thinks I’m a tourist…which I am not.
The different feel comes from the fact that most people are spending the holiday times with their family. That means that fewer locals are on the prowl, and the area is just a little more hushed.