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At the beginning of December, the picturesque town of Carolina del Príncipe celebrates its patron saint festivities, in honor of the Virgin of the “Conchita”, a Marian dedication derived from the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, typical of this municipality whose origins date back to the 18th century.
The image of the “Conchita”, a sculpture typical of the viceregal Quito school, is closely linked to the very origins of Carolina del Príncipe and its veneration is an identity element of the town.
The festivities in honor of “Conchita” are celebrated around the feast of the Immaculate Conception, on December 8. The main activities in homage to the town's patron saint are the procession with the image and the serenades to the Virgin that take place at night. In addition to this, on December 7, Carolina del Príncipe celebrates the traditional Colombian candlelight festival, with candles and bonfires that illuminate the streets and squares of the town.
This day is also a tradition for the lighting of the Christmas lights that introduce the town to the end of the year festive season.
The Festival of the “Virgen de la Conchita” in Carolina del Príncipe celebrates the figure of the Virgin Mary, as well as the identity of the town, strengthening the social and cultural fabric of the community, promoting integration and local pride.
