Maracaibo prepares for La Chinita patronal festivities

The Archdiocese of Maracaibo and the Basilica of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá have announced the schedule for the upcoming patronal festivities honoring 'La Chinita' on November 18. This year's celebrations will be held under a theme of sobriety, solidarity, and faith, following the national impact of earthquakes experienced in June 2026.

Key activities include the blessing of the Virgin's mantles on October 16 and a 16-day procession across Lake Maracaibo beginning November 1. The procession will visit 15 lakeside towns.

To support the event, the Zulia Governor's Office is rehabilitating roads in Maracaibo's historic center. Approximately 6,000 tons of asphalt are being applied near the Basilica, Plaza Bolívar, and the Monument to the Virgin, with work expected to conclude by October 31 to prepare for the official start of the 60th edition of the La Chinita Fair.