Día de las
Velitas
Prelude: Crafting a Night of Unity and Celebration
When we set out to create “Sabor, Estilo, y un Poco IIImpulsivo” presents “Día de las Velitas,” our vision was clear: to bring the magic of one of Colombia’s most beloved traditions to Chicago while fostering a sense of connection, culture, and community. The event was born out of a shared passion for preserving and celebrating Colombian heritage, as well as a desire to give back to those in need during the holiday season.
Months of planning went into every detail of this special evening. From collaborating with Arepa George and IIImpulsiveee to securing a lineup of talented performers, to coordinating with a non-profit organization for the clothing drive—every step was guided by the intention to create an experience that was both meaningful and memorable.
The purpose of Día de las Velitas goes beyond celebration. It’s about shining a light on the richness of Colombian culture, creating a platform for artists to showcase their talents, and uniting people through the universal values of hope and gratitude. By bringing this tradition to life in Chicago, we aimed to strengthen the ties within our community and inspire pride in our shared heritage.
A Night to Remember
On December 7th, 2024, Estilombia, in collaboration with Arepa George and IIImpulsiveee, proudly hosted “Sabor, Estilo, y un Poco IIImpulsivo presents Día de las Velitas,” an event that brought the Colombian tradition of Día de las Velitas (Day of the Little Candles) to Chicago. This special evening not only celebrated a cherished Colombian holiday but also fostered community, showcased vibrant talent, and gave back to those in need.
Día de las Velitas, or Day of the Little Candles, is a cherished Colombian tradition marking the start of the holiday season. Celebrated on December 7th, it honors the Virgin Mary with candle and lantern lighting, symbolizing hope, unity, and gratitude. For Colombians in Chicago and those living abroad, this tradition carries profound meaning as a way to reconnect with their roots, share cultural heritage, and foster a sense of belonging. In a diverse city like Chicago, it bridges communities, uniting Colombians and people of all backgrounds drawn to its message of light and togetherness.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome at Arepa George’s inviting new location, where guests were greeted with the soulful sounds of vallenatos played by an accordionist from Juvenato. As attendees settled in, the air was filled with the aroma of delicious Colombian cuisine, courtesy of Arepa George, creating the perfect backdrop for an evening rich in culture.
The stage came alive with dynamic performances by various talented Colombian artists.
The evening’s performances were a celebration of Colombian artistry and creativity, each bringing a unique twist to the event. Julieta, an emerging Colombian singer, brought an emotional and heartfelt presence to the stage. Her renditions of beloved songs resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the beauty of Colombian music through her soulful voice and passion.
Raíces de mi Tierra mesmerized the audience with their traditional folkloric dances from Barranquilla, offering an authentic glimpse into the vibrancy and heritage of Colombian culture. Their colorful costumes and rhythmic movements set the tone for a night steeped in tradition.
Adding a modern flair, TomCat Trumpet blended electronic beats with live trumpet music, captivating the crowd with his innovative sound. His performance showcased how traditional instruments can harmonize with contemporary genres, creating something entirely unique.
Victor from Latin Rhythms and Dance brought everyone together with a lively and interactive one-hour salsa class. His infectious energy and expert guidance encouraged attendees of all skill levels to join in, filling the room with laughter, movement, and a shared love for dance. This segment of the evening highlighted the power of dance as a universal language and a way to connect across cultures.
Keeping the energy high throughout the night, DJ Bryan delivered an electrifying set that had everyone on their feet. His mix of salsa, vallenatos, reggaeton, and merengue ensured that the spirit of celebration never waned, as guests danced the night away.
Together, these performers created an unforgettable tapestry of sound and movement, embodying the richness and diversity of Colombian culture while delighting all who attended.
A Community United
A highlight of the evening was the lighting of candles, a cherished tradition that symbolizes hope, unity, and gratitude. The moment brought attendees together in a shared experience, reflecting the essence of Día de las Velitas. The presence of a representative from the Colombian Consulate further enriched the evening, offering consular services and engaging with the community.
Giving Back
Aligned with the spirit of the season, the event featured a clothing donation drive for children, organized in partnership with a local non-profit. Guests were encouraged to bring donations, which were accepted at both Arepa George locations leading up to the event. Together, we made a difference in the lives of children while spreading holiday cheer.
Looking Ahead
This event was more than just a celebration—it was a milestone in fostering a sense of belonging among Colombians in Chicago. As we reflect on the success of this magical night, we’re inspired to continue creating spaces where culture, creativity, and community thrive. Stay tuned for future events as we bring more of Colombia’s beauty and traditions to life.
Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and participated in making “Día de las Velitas” an unforgettable experience. For those who couldn’t join, you can relive the magic through our video recap available below.