Venezuela launches 2026 community vacation program in Mérida, Sotillo

The Venezuelan government began the 2026 community vacation initiative, known as "Venezuela Renace" or "Venezuela Ríe," to provide organized recreation, cultural activities and environmental education for children and adolescents during school holidays. The first launch took place in the El Alcázar sector of San Rafael de Alcázar, Obispo Ramos de Lora municipality, Mérida state, attended by mayor Yanetzy Urbina and regional secretary Félix Barloil. Activities included traditional games, face‑painting, sports circuits, science workshops on recycling and reforestation, and artistic expression.

A second rollout occurred in the municipality of Sotillo, where mayor José Gregorio Maldonado, together with Governor Ernesto Luna and the Red Integral de Recreación, organized football, inflatable castles, tree‑planting, a barber service and other team‑building events for over 130 participants. The program aims to strengthen community ties, promote ecological awareness and ensure safe, enjoyable leisure for Venezuelan youth.