Santa Marta kicks off 2026 Fiesta del Mar for city's 501st anniversary

Santa Marta will host the Fiesta del Mar from 23 to 29 July 2026, coinciding with the 501st anniversary of the city’s foundation. Mayor Carlos Pinedo Cuello announced that the municipal government has declared civic holidays on 23, 24, 27, 28 and 29 July and introduced security, mobility and public‑space measures to manage the expected influx of visitors.

The week‑long program features a lineup of national and regional artists, with Beéle headlining the Grand Serenata on 28 July, supported by Gusi, Churo Díaz and a host of other performers. Additional events include a gospel concert, accordion and vallenato shows, nautical competitions, folk parades, gastronomy fairs and entrepreneurship exhibitions, all aimed at boosting tourism and projecting Santa Marta as an international cultural destination.