Over time, candombe became a fundamental part of Uruguayan culture, transcending its ethnic and racial origins. It stands out in the Uruguayan carnival, especially in the Llamadas, where the groups parade through the streets to the rhythm of drums, accompanied by dancers and traditional characters such as Gramillero and Mama Vieja.

In 2009, candombe was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, a recognition of its cultural value and the struggle of the Afro-Uruguayan community to preserve its heritage. This recognition also highlights the importance of protecting and promoting living traditions in an increasingly globalized and homogenized world.