Celebrate 60 Years of Friendship

Tampa & Barranquilla | May 9 – May 18

In 1966, Tampa and Barranquilla officially became Sister Cities — beginning a relationship built on cultural exchange, business collaboration, education, and lifelong friendships.

In May 2026, we invite you to join us in Colombia as we celebrate 60 years of partnership with a special delegation trip to Barranquilla, Cartagena, and Bogotá.

This once-in-a-generation anniversary journey will combine cultural experiences, historic milestones, official engagements, and unforgettable moments across three of Colombia’s most vibrant cities.

Trip Dates

May 9 – May 18, 2026

Cities Included:

• Barranquilla

• Cartagena

• Bogotá

Why Join the 60th Anniversary Delegation?

This trip is more than tourism — it is a celebration of diplomacy, culture, and community.

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Celebrate six decades of Sister City partnership

• Participate in cultural and civic engagements

• Connect with local leaders and organizations

• Experience Colombia’s rich history and vibrant culture

• Strengthen ties between Tampa and Barranquilla

Whether you have been involved with Sister Cities for years or are exploring participation for the first time, this anniversary trip offers a meaningful and memorable way to be part of history.

Current Draft Itinerary

Please note: The land tour agenda may evolve, particularly with participation from City Hall in Barranquilla.

Barranquilla & Cartagena

May 9 – May 15

Barranquilla Highlights:

• Welcome lunch and reception dinner

• Guided city tour featuring:

  • El Prado neighborhood

  • Founders Park

  • Amira de la Rosa Theater

  • Carnival House

  • Old Customs Building

  • Montoya Station & Railway Square

  • The Great Malecón

  • Shakira Monument

  • Window of the World

• Special guided experience at the Barranquilla Carnival House

• Excursion to Puerto Mocho with beach lunch

Cartagena Highlights:

• Historic Walled City experience

• Dinner in the iconic colonial center

• Day at Bora Bora Beach Club in the Rosario Islands

• Full-day city tour including:

  • Bocagrande & Castillogrande

  • San Felipe Castle

  • Clock Tower

  • India Catalina

  • Old Shoes Monument

  • Cartagena Sign

• Closing delegation dinner

 Bogotá

May 16 – May 18

City Tour:

• Plaza de Bolívar

• National Capitol

• Casa de Nariño (Presidential Palace)

• Santa Clara Church Museum

• Gold Museum

• Botero Museum

Monserrate & Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá:

• Panoramic views from Monserrate

• Visit to the world-famous Salt Cathedral (180 meters underground)

• Traditional Colombian lunch

Departure:

• Airport transfer on May 18

Who Should Express Interest?

• Tampa Sister Cities members

• Civic and community leaders

• Business leaders exploring international connections

• Cultural ambassadors

• Alumni of prior Colombia delegations

• Anyone interested in strengthening Tampa–Colombia ties

Space may be limited based on hotel accommodations and delegation structure.

What Happens Next?

This page is to express interest only.

By submitting your information:

• You will receive updated pricing details once finalized

• You will be informed about delegation briefings

• You will receive official registration information when available

• You will receive updates if the program is expanded to include official City Hall participation

Final pricing, flight information, and official program components will be shared with those on the interest list.

Be Part of History

Sixty years of partnership deserves to be celebrated in a meaningful way.

Join us in honoring the legacy of those who built this relationship — and help shape the next chapter of friendship between Tampa and Barranquilla.

👉 Express Your Interest Below

Complete the form to receive updates and secure priority notification when registration opens.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone together in Colombia.