What: Massive celebration of Cartagena's 1811 independence from Spain featuring parades, the National Beauty Pageant finals, street parties, and two weeks of cultural events.

Vibe: Peak energy, extremely crowded, expensive, patriotic fervor.

Highlight: The National Beauty Pageant (Concurso Nacional de Belleza) crowns Miss Colombia during this week—it's been Colombia's most-watched event for over 50 years.