By Staff / imagen from archive Pablo Barrera
QUETZALTENANGO – In an act of cultural and spiritual reaffirmation, the Commission for Innovation, Culture, and International Relations of the "Cofradía Mayor del Niño del Santísimo" has officially launched the fifth edition of its artistic contests. For this year 2026, the festivities focus on a theme of profound social value: “The Mayan Woman and the Capitanas, Living Soul of Cultural Tradition.”
This initiative, based on Articles 2 and 4 of the Cofradía's statutes, seeks to exalt the transcendental value of Mayan Women and the "Capitanas" as pillars of cultural tradition, recognizing their support, dedication, and legacy in preserving the faith, identity, and ancestral practices that strengthen the spirituality and cohesion of our people. According to the organizers, the contest is not merely a competition but an act of affirmation inspired by devotion to the Holy Child (Niño del Santísimo), where art becomes a vehicle for memory and identity for future generations.
AN OPEN AND INCLUSIVE CALL
Aware that Guatemala is a pluricultural and multilingual nation, this call is open to students from private and public schools, universities, and the general public. The general objective is to foster the artistic and cultural development of children, youth, and Guatemalan citizens, strengthening identity, creativity, and the recognition of the fundamental contribution of Mayan Women and the Capitanas within cultural tradition.
The categories for participation in this edition include:
- Painting
- Poetry
- Marimba
- Photography
2026 SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES:
1. Presentation of the contest rules: February 12th | Location: Quetzaltenango.
2. Creation of the competing works: During the months of February, March, and April.
3. Registration for the contest: From March 15th to April 15th | Format: Online.
4. Reception of works: From March 15th to April 15th | Location: Casa de la Cultura.
5. Pre-awards press conference: April 30th | Location: Quetzaltenango.
6. Gala Awards Ceremony: May 3rd | Location: Municipal Theater (Teatro Municipal).
7. Exhibition Opening: May 5th | Location: Quetzaltenango.
INFORMATION AND CONTACT
For more details regarding the rules or the registration process, the Cofradía provides the following channels:
- Email: cofradiamayor@gmail.com
- WhatsApp: 5786-8181 and 5971-6986
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cofradiamayor
2026 Commission Board of Directors
"This is my land, This is my people, This is my Cofradía"
City of Quetzaltenango, February 2026.
