Christmas arrived early in Venezuela this year, as President Nicolás Maduro announced an advance start to the holiday season.
Public spaces across Caracas and other regions have been adorned with festive decorations, transforming the capital into a vibrant display of lights and holiday imagery.
The mayor of Caracas, Carmen Meléndez, marked the occasion by lighting up a traditional cross on Waraira Repano, also known as Ávila, the iconic mountain overlooking the city.
During the lighting ceremony, Meléndez called for a “happy, safe, and family-friendly Christmas,” while the country’s Minister of Culture, Ernesto Villegas, emphasized the importance of using the season to reaffirm Venezuela’s national identity.
Throughout Caracas, numerous landmarks and public buildings are now illuminated with Christmas trees, tunnels of lights, and seasonal figures like stars, gift boxes, and snowflakes. Passers-by, particularly families with children, have been stopping to enjoy the decorations and capture photos in front of the colorful displays.
This year’s festivities are part of the “Christmas route” initiative, aimed at spreading cheer and celebrating Venezuelan culture. Villegas underscored that the Christmas season should not be “empty, without content,” but rather a time to connect with the nation’s roots and traditions.
To kick off the season, concerts and events were held on Tuesday night in various states, including Miranda, Carabobo, Guárico, and Lara.
The state channel, Venezolana de Televisión (VTV), broadcasted images of the events, showcasing the joyful atmosphere that has taken over the country despite its ongoing political tensions.
The early celebration comes in the wake of a political crisis sparked by the controversial July 28 elections. The National Electoral Council (CNE) declared President Maduro the winner, although detailed results remain undisclosed. The opposition claims victory for its candidate, Edmundo González Urrutia, who has since sought exile in Spain.
In response to the election aftermath, President Maduro announced the early start of Christmas on September 2, describing it as a tribute and gesture of gratitude to the Venezuelan people. However, the Episcopal Conference of Venezuela (CEV) later criticized the move, stating that Christmas “should not be used for propaganda or particular political purposes.”
Despite the political backdrop, Venezuelans have embraced the early start of the holiday season. With “Merry Christmas” messages and traditional candy canes visible across public spaces, the festive spirit is palpable. As work continues on new installations and events, the country aims to create an atmosphere of unity and celebration, reminding everyone of the enduring joy that the Christmas season brings.
