Why December is tempting
Medellin decorates the city with its Alumbrados Navidenos, the Christmas lights along the river and in the parks, and families pour back into the city. Many foreign visitors already plan December trips, and time off work makes a week of recovery easier. The catch is that everyone else has the same idea: flights and lodging cost more, and clinic calendars bend around the holidays.
The 2026 to 2027 holiday calendar
| Date | Holiday | What it means for your plan |
|---|---|---|
| Tue, Dec 8, 2026 | Immaculate Conception (festivo); the night before is Dia de las Velitas, candles and gatherings | Expect clinic closure on the 8th. Avoid scheduling a day-1 check for this date |
| Thu, Dec 24, 2026 | Christmas Eve (not an official festivo, but many businesses close early) | Confirm clinic hours; avoid a surgery on the 23rd if your day-1 check would land here |
| Fri, Dec 25, 2026 | Christmas (festivo) | Clinics closed. Plan no appointments |
| Dec 26 to 31 | Holiday week | Many clinics run reduced schedules or close; ask early |
| Fri, Jan 1, 2027 | New Year (festivo) | Closed; New Year's Eve fireworks are widespread |
| Mon, Jan 11, 2027 | Epiphany, Reyes Magos (festivo moved to Monday under Colombian law) | Long weekend; plan checks around it |
Dates computed from the Colombian holiday rules. Alumbrados dates are announced each year by the city; confirm before you book.
The best December windows
A December surgery window that keeps checks off holidays
The first two weeks of December are the sweet spot. Clinics are running normal schedules, your checks land on working days, and you can enjoy the lights at night once your surgeon clears you. Surgery in the week between Christmas and New Year is possible at some clinics, but ask specifically who will see you if something needs attention on the 25th or the 1st.
Holiday hazards for new LASIK eyes
- Fireworks and polvora. Colombia's December celebrations include a lot of fireworks, and eye injuries are a known seasonal problem. Keep your distance and your protective eyewear on, especially the first week.
- Smoke and crowds. Street festivities mean smoke, dust, and elbows. Clinics commonly tell patients to avoid dusty or polluted environments for the first week.
- Late nights and screens. Dry, tired eyes heal less comfortably. Keep the first few evenings quiet.
- Alcohol and drops. Parties make it easy to miss a dose. Set phone alarms for every drop.
- Swimming. Pool and sea time is usually off-limits for the first weeks, so do not build a coast trip into week one.
Booking tips for the season
- Request your evaluation date by early November. December slots fill.
- Ask for the clinic's holiday closure dates in writing.
- Book refundable or changeable flights in case testing moves your surgery.
- Budget for higher December lodging prices and book early.
- If you are coming as a pair, read our couples trip guide.
Frequently asked questions
Are Medellin eye clinics open in December?
Most are open for much of December but close on public holidays (Dec 8, Dec 25, Jan 1) and often run reduced hours between Christmas and New Year. Ask for closure dates when booking.
When is the best time in December for LASIK in Medellin?
The first half of the month. It keeps your surgery and early follow-ups on normal working days before the holiday week.
Can I see the Alumbrados after LASIK?
Usually yes, once your surgeon clears you and you wear protective eyewear. Avoid dense crowds, smoke, and fireworks during the first week.
Is December more expensive?
Surgery prices do not typically change by season, but flights and lodging usually cost more in December. Book early.
Questions about your eyes and your dates?
Send us your prescription and travel window on WhatsApp. We answer in English, explain your options, and connect you with licensed Medellin ophthalmology centers for a formal evaluation.
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