10 Local and Lively Year-Round Things to Do in Soledad Colombia

Key Takeaways:

• Soledad offers an authentic Caribbean-Colombian experience with music, markets, and cultural heritage all year long.

• From river walks and local festivals to artisan crafts and food, this Barranquilla neighbor is full of vibrant surprises.

• Travelers love Soledad for its colorful energy, local pride, and easy access to Colombia’s Atlantic coast activities.

Soledad, Colombia, located just south of Barranquilla in the Atlántico Department, is often overlooked by travelers — but those who take the time to explore quickly fall in love with its authentic charm. Known as a city rich in history and music, Soledad plays a key role in Colombia’s Caribbean identity and is a vital part of the massive Barranquilla Carnival. With roots going back to the 17th century, this city blends Afro-Caribbean rhythms, traditional markets, and tight-knit communities with pride. Visitors are welcomed into a warm, music-loving culture where every day feels like a celebration. Whether you’re passing through or making it your base, Soledad offers colorful, year-round energy and unique experiences that are distinctly Colombian.

Table of Contents

1. Stroll the Paseo Real del Río Magdalena

2. Explore Plaza Central and Soledad’s Historic Church

3. Shop for Artisan Goods at Mercado Sabanitas

4. Catch a Live Music Show at a Local Vallenato Bar

5. Visit the Carnaval House Museum (Casa del Carnaval de Soledad)

6. Attend a Cultural Dance Festival

7. Taste Local Street Food Along Calle 30

8. Take a Day Trip to Barranquilla’s Beaches

9. Watch a Local Soccer Match at Estadio Metropolitano

10. Explore the Art Murals in Las Moras Neighborhood

1. Stroll the Paseo Real del Río Magdalena

The Paseo Real del Río Magdalena is a scenic riverside promenade that gives locals and visitors alike a tranquil escape in the heart of Soledad. Stretching along the iconic Magdalena River, this walkway is lined with palm trees, benches, and open-air art that reflects the city’s maritime and musical roots. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to walk here, as you’ll find locals jogging, fishing, or relaxing in the shade. The river breeze offers a welcome break from the heat and adds a sense of calm to the lively city.

This is also a great place to connect with the pulse of the community. Food vendors sell snacks like arepas and mango with lime, and street musicians often play local rhythms as families gather to enjoy the atmosphere. During holidays, the promenade becomes a gathering spot for small parades or cultural pop-ups. It’s a low-key but beautiful way to appreciate Soledad’s connection to the water — something that has shaped its culture for centuries.

2. Explore Plaza Central and Soledad’s Historic Church

In the heart of Soledad, Plaza Central serves as a social and cultural hub surrounded by trees, benches, and plenty of history. The plaza is anchored by the Iglesia de San Antonio de Padua, a historic Catholic church dating back to colonial times. Its architecture is modest yet beautiful, reflecting the city’s deep-rooted traditions and spiritual identity. Inside, soft candlelight and wooden pews provide a calm contrast to the energy of the surrounding city streets.

The plaza itself is lively day and night. Seniors play dominoes under trees, teens gather after school, and vendors sell everything from fresh fruit to handmade bracelets. It’s a great spot to slow down and people-watch or join in the conversations if you speak some Spanish. A visit to the church and plaza offers insight into Soledad’s everyday rhythm — simple, heartfelt, and community-first.

3. Shop for Artisan Goods at Mercado Sabanitas

Located in one of Soledad’s most traditional neighborhoods, Mercado Sabanitas is a bustling marketplace that showcases the region’s crafts, textiles, and produce. Open most days of the week, it’s a perfect place to pick up handmade hammocks, colorful woven bags, or locally harvested spices and herbs. The market is a mix of indoor and outdoor stalls, and while a bit chaotic at first, it quickly becomes a sensory adventure worth diving into.

Unlike tourist markets in bigger cities, Sabanitas is all about authenticity. You’ll meet artisans face-to-face and often see them crafting or weaving as they sell. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation — most vendors are proud of their work and eager to explain the traditions behind it. If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind souvenir that supports local hands, this is the place to shop.

4. Catch a Live Music Show at a Local Vallenato Bar

Vallenato — one of Colombia’s most iconic music genres — thrives in the bars and backyards of Soledad. Several local venues host live vallenato nights, where skilled accordionists and singers perform for crowds that dance, clap, and sing along late into the night. These shows typically take place on weekends and are often held in open-air patios or neighborhood bars.

You don’t have to be a music expert to enjoy the scene — just bring your energy and openness to dance. Drinks are cheap, the food is homemade, and the music is full of heart. Many spots also blend vallenato with cumbia, salsa, and champeta, creating an electrifying fusion that pulls everyone onto the floor. It’s a nightlife experience unique to Soledad and a must-do for music lovers.

5. Visit the Carnaval House Museum (Casa del Carnaval de Soledad)

Soledad plays an important role in the annual Barranquilla Carnival, and its local Casa del Carnaval gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the costumes, dances, and stories that power this world-famous celebration. This small but vibrant museum features colorful displays, videos of past parades, and rotating exhibits that honor the performers and cultural roots of the carnival.

You’ll see towering masks, traditional attire, and exhibits explaining folkloric characters like El Garabato and La Marimonda. Staff members are often former or current participants in the carnival, making for passionate storytelling and personal insights. It’s open year-round and especially exciting to visit in the weeks leading up to carnival season. Whether you’ve attended or not, this museum brings the magic of carnival to life in a powerful and intimate way.

6. Attend a Cultural Dance Festival

Soledad is home to many small-scale cultural dance festivals that celebrate its Afro-Caribbean and indigenous heritage. These events happen throughout the year in parks, schools, and community centers, often featuring kids, teens, and elders performing traditional styles like cumbia, mapalé, and bullerengue. Dancers wear brightly colored costumes, and the performances are usually accompanied by live drummers and vocalists. The atmosphere is joyful, raw, and deeply rooted in local pride.

Visitors are always welcome, and many events are free or donation-based. Some festivals coincide with religious or civic holidays, so it’s worth asking locals or checking posters around town. You’ll not only enjoy a great show — you’ll also witness the storytelling and resistance embedded in these dances. It’s a beautiful way to connect with Soledad’s spirit beyond museums and monuments.

7. Taste Local Street Food Along Calle 30

Calle 30 is one of Soledad’s main arteries — and a street food hotspot loved by locals. Day and night, food carts and corner grills serve up regional snacks like arepas de huevo, butifarra sausages, fried yucca, and tropical fruit juices. It’s the kind of place where every block offers something different and delicious, making it a great DIY food tour for adventurous eaters.

Prices are low and portions are generous, so you can try multiple bites without breaking your budget. Pull up a plastic chair, strike up a conversation, and enjoy the music playing from nearby shops. It’s street food with heart, and it offers an intimate look at what locals truly love to eat. Don’t leave Soledad without tasting its flavors firsthand.

8. Take a Day Trip to Barranquilla’s Beaches

While Soledad itself isn’t coastal, it sits just minutes from Barranquilla, where beaches like Puerto Colombia and Salgar offer sun, sand, and seafood. These spots are popular with locals, especially on weekends, and provide a refreshing escape when you need a break from the inland heat. Vendors rent out chairs and umbrellas, and beachside restaurants serve freshly caught fried fish with coconut rice and plantains.

Transportation is easy and affordable by bus, taxi, or rideshare. Along the way, you might also visit the Malecón del Río or the Aleta del Tiburón sculpture for great views and photo ops. Whether you spend the day swimming or just lounging with a cold drink, it’s the perfect complement to your Soledad itinerary. A beach break always adds a nice rhythm to a Caribbean city trip.

9. Watch a Local Soccer Match at Estadio Metropolitano

Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, catching a live match at Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez is an experience in pure Colombian passion. Located just a short drive from Soledad, this massive stadium is home to Junior FC, Barranquilla’s beloved football team. On game days, the streets fill with red-and-white jerseys, vuvuzelas, and chanting fans.

Inside the stadium, the energy is electric, with songs, drums, and nonstop excitement. Tickets are affordable, and locals are welcoming — they’ll happily explain chants or offer you a sip of aguardiente if you’re lucky. If Junior scores, get ready for fireworks and flying beer. It’s chaotic, loud, and unforgettable — just like the region itself.

10. Explore the Art Murals in Las Moras Neighborhood

Las Moras, a humble yet culturally rich neighborhood in Soledad, has become known for its community-driven street art. Colorful murals cover building walls, showcasing themes of Afro-Colombian identity, carnival characters, political resistance, and everyday life. Local artists, many of them youth, use their talent to brighten their streets and tell their stories.

Take a walk through this open-air gallery, and you’ll find both beauty and meaning in the layers of paint. The area is safe during the day, and residents are proud of their neighborhood’s transformation. If you’re into photography or urban art, this walk will be one of your favorite experiences. It’s where Soledad’s creativity and voice are most vividly on display.

What to do if you have kids?

Soledad is a kid-friendly destination with plenty of open spaces, music, and colorful attractions that spark curiosity. Children enjoy the playful energy at Plaza Central, the murals in Las Moras, and feeding pigeons near the church. Family outings to nearby beaches or the Magdalena River promenade offer room to run and play. Don’t miss cultural shows — kids often get invited to dance! With warm locals and accessible attractions, traveling with children here is joyful and easy.

Where can I find free events in Soledad Colombia taking place this weekend?

Want to discover what’s happening in Soledad this weekend without spending a peso? Head over to https://planmyweekend.ai — your go-to tool for uncovering free events in Soledad and nearby Barranquilla. Whether it’s a street music festival, dance showcase, night market, or community gathering, we’ll show you what’s trending locally. You can filter by interests, get directions, and even see last-minute pop-up activities. It’s the smartest way to experience more of Soledad while staying on budget.

Final Thoughts

Soledad may live in the shadow of Barranquilla, but its vibrant personality shines through in every dance step, painted wall, and riverside breeze. The city welcomes you with culture, rhythm, and genuine warmth that can’t be faked or forced. It’s not about big-name landmarks — it’s about moments: a shared plate of food, a spontaneous dance, a mural that speaks to the soul. If you’re searching for an authentic Colombian experience year-round, Soledad is waiting to show you the real Caribbean spirit.

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai