Venezuelan authorities have officially kicked off the Christmas season in early October, following a directive from President Nicolás Maduro.
Christmas Tree Set the Stage
The decision was made due to the optimistic economic outlook stemming from August, marking a departure from the traditional holiday timeline.
During a ceremony led by Culture Minister Ernesto Villegas, the festivities were launched with a call to embrace national unity and love.
“Now opens a beautiful period where we will listen to our parrandas, aguinaldos, and noble traditions,” Villegas declared, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Venezuelan culture.
Caracas Mayor Carmen Meléndez also contributed to the celebration, stating that the festivities would begin with children and families. Iconic Christmas lights, including the illumination of the Cruz del Warairepano and the Christmas tree in Plaza Bolívar, set the stage for the season.
Not the First Time
This isn't the first time Maduro has initiated early Christmas celebrations; similar actions were taken in 2020 and 2021 to alleviate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, it is customary for the government to distribute food packages to the less fortunate.
Caracas is now adorned with Christmas decorations such as trees, light tunnels, and holiday figures, drawing families and children to capture the moment. Concerts and activities have also been organized in various regions, including Miranda and Carabobo, showcasing the community's resilience amid ongoing political turmoil.
Despite the festive atmosphere, the country continues to navigate a political crisis following the controversial elections on July 28, where Maduro claimed victory. The Venezuelan Episcopal Conference has urged that the Christmas celebration not be politicized, stressing the need for unity and genuine joy during the holidays.
