February cannot be confined to a single reading of Latin America. From one country to another, the rhythm changes. Some cities move to the sound of parades and popular celebrations, while others attract attention through major sporting, musical or professional events. This month reveals a region in motion, where each destination sets its own tempo and where events play a central role in shaping the start of the tourism year.
Carnival season
The first months of the year coincide with the heart of the carnival season, a period when music, dance and rituals take over public spaces. Streets become open stages where tradition, creativity and collective participation come together.
On Colombia’s Caribbean coast, the Carnival of Barranquilla (12–17 February) stands out for its cumbiamba rhythms, colorful floats and emblematic dances such as Garabato and Monocuco.
You might like: Cumbia: bewitching rhythms from the heart of Colombia
In Brazil, the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro (13–21 February) transforms the city on multiple levels: samba schools bring neighborhoods such as Santa Teresa and Laranjeiras to life, while the major parades take place at the Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome, following months of preparation.
Our article: Brazilian Carnivals: A Journey to the Heart of Traditions and Festivities
In Bolivia, the Carnival of Oruro (14–15 February) offers a radically different atmosphere. Centered on devotion to the Virgin of Socavón, it brings together long processions, Diablada, Morenada and other traditional dances in a celebration where faith, ritual and Andean heritage intersect.
These carnivals highlight how traditions continue to shape the cultural calendar and attract travelers eager to experience these celebrations from within, far beyond simple spectacle.
IRONMAN 70.3 – San Salvador, El Salvador (22 February)
San Salvador makes its debut on the international circuit by hosting an IRONMAN 70.3 race for the first time. The course combines a 1.9 km swim in Lake Ilopango, a 90 km cycling segment along the Pan-American Highway, and a 21.1 km half marathon through the historic center, finishing at Plaza Gerardo Barrios.
As part of the global IRONMAN circuit, the race offers qualification slots for the world championship and highlights the country’s volcanic and urban landscapes, positioning the Salvadoran capital on the map of major international sporting events.
Viña del Mar International Song Festival – Chile (22–27 February)
Each year, the coastal city of Viña del Mar becomes the country’s most visible musical stage. For six nights, the Quinta Vergara amphitheater hosts national and international artists, drawing massive audiences and extensive media coverage.
More than a competition, the festival functions as a barometer of the music industry and a showcase for emerging Latin American talent. The 2026 edition strengthens its international profile with the presence of British duo Pet Shop Boys, adding a global reference to a program that spans genres and generations.
Our article: From Local Contest to Global Icon: The History of the Viña del Mar Festival
Abierto Mexicano Telcel – Acapulco, Mexico (22–28 February)
Acapulco once again hosts one of the region’s most important tennis tournaments, part of the ATP 500 calendar. Matches are played at the Arena GNP Seguros from afternoon into the evening, while the city complements the competition with activities designed for spectators.
With the participation of eight ATP top-30 players such as Alexander Zverev, Ben Shelton and Lorenzo Musetti, the tournament positions itself as one of the season’s key early events and confirms Acapulco as a stronghold of tennis in Latin America.
ANATO Tourism Showcase – Bogotá, Colombia (25–27 February)
The leading tourism trade event in Colombia, the ANATO Tourism Showcase celebrates its 45th edition in Bogotá. The event brings together more than 1,400 exhibitors and co-exhibitors, 52,000 visitors and delegations from 40 countries.
This year, the department of Córdoba is the featured national destination, highlighting its Caribbean culture and ecotourism projects, while the Mexican Caribbean participates as the international guest destination. The program also includes the Travel Mart and the third edition of ANATO Capacita Tech, focused on training, digital tools and innovation.
From Rio to Bogotá, February shifts rhythm at every border. It is within this embraced diversity that the region finds its strength: the ability to offer contrasting experiences driven by local calendars yet visible on an international scale. February is therefore not just a month of events; it is a revealing moment of the cultural, social and tourism vitality of a continent already moving forward with confidence into the rest of the year.
Photos: Marco Antonio Teixeira
