Cuba in a year

January

January is a significant month for Cubans as they celebrate the anniversary of the Triunfo de la Revolución (Triumph of the Revolution) on January 1st. Throughout the first two weeks, most Cuban cities host recreational and artistic activities to honor the occasion. You can enjoy band concerts, presentations by great Cuban troubadours, children's songs, theater works, and much more, all while immersing yourself in Cuban culture. Notably, January 28th marks the birthday of Jose Martí, the hero of the country. Activities held on this day include competitions, exhibitions, and traditional pioneriles martianos parades, among others.
For jazz enthusiasts, January is the perfect month to visit Cuba. The Festival Internacional Jazz Plaza takes place in Havana and Santiago de Cuba, featuring the best Cuban and international jazz bands. This extraordinary music festival usually takes place between the second and third week of January, offering a fantastic opportunity to listen to jazz figures from around the world.

February

Cuba is an incredible destination to visit, especially in February. The month provides ample opportunities to experience the rich culture, history, and natural heritage of the Cuban people. Our team is ready to help you plan the perfect itinerary, whether it's a family trip or a romantic getaway for Valentine's Day.
February is an exciting time to visit Cuba, with many festivals and events happening throughout the month. The Sonido Camagüeyano Festival is a must-see, featuring young musicians and renowned bands that will keep you dancing for 24 hours. Another event not to be missed is the annual Cuba International Book Fair (FIL Cuba), which takes place in the ancient San Carlos de La Cabaña Fortress located in the Bay of Havana. This festival is a celebration of local and international authors, and book lovers will have plenty to enjoy, such as conferences, signings, and other activities.
For music lovers, the International Salsa Festival is the perfect opportunity to experience the lively rhythm of this quintessentially Cuban dance. The festival showcases the best of salsa music and dance, giving you a chance to fully appreciate this wonderful art form in its country of origin.

March

Cuba is a country that celebrates women's rights and achievements, especially on International Women's Day, which is celebrated on March 8th. The country began celebrating this day in 1931, and now organizes a range of events including workshops, meetings, conferences, exhibitions and musical concerts that promote education and activism for women's rights.
March 13th is another significant day in Cuba's history as it marks the anniversary of the attack on the Presidential Palace in Havana, which was an attempt to overthrow the then president of the Cuban republic, Fulgencio Batista. Although these attempts ended in sensational repressive episodes, they served to create a precedent for the famous Cuban Revolution of 1959.
In addition to these historical celebrations, the Fiesta del Tambor Guillermo Barreto in Memoriam is another popular event that highlights Cuban culture. This event is organized by the National Center of Popular Music and takes place in Havana. It brings together Cuba's main orchestras, local and international artists, and dance companies to celebrate the country's African, Spanish, and Franco-Haitian heritage, particularly its symbolic heritage of the drum. The event lasts approximately a week and includes conferences, masterclasses, workshops, and guided visits to various cultural centers.

April

Cuba is a great destination to visit in April, with its combination of warm weather and a variety of cultural events. In addition to the opportunity to visit historical monuments and relax on beautiful beaches, a number of festivals and celebrations take place throughout the month.
Religious Festivities: Cuba is a secular country, but many Cuban Catholics celebrate Holy Week in April with religious events that bring together believers and tourists alike. In various cities, including Cienfuegos, Trinidad, and Camagüey, pilgrimages are held in which different images are shown along the entire route. The capital city Havana has its own Way of the Cross on Good Friday, which begins in front of the Cathedral of Havana and progresses through the streets of La Habana Vieja (Old Havana) to end at the Templo del Cristo del Buen Viaje (Church of the Holy Christ of the Good Journey).
International Biennial of Humor: During the first week of April, the International Biennial of Humor takes place in the small town of Sant'Antonio de los Baños, in the province of Artemisa. This event is a great opportunity to discover Cuban humor mixed with the art of incredible caricatures made by important artists.
Baracoense Culture Week is celebrated every year between the last week of March and the first week of April. This event was created to commemorate the landing of Antonio Maceo, which took place on April 1, 1895, on Duaba beach. During this week, different activities take place, including parades, culinary activities, craft exhibitions, and popular festivals, all with the aim of keeping the traditions of Baracoa alive.
Victory of the Bay of Pigs April 19 is an important date in Cuban history, as it marks the Victory of the Bay of Pigs, also known as the "Batalla de Playa Girón," an event that occurred in 1961. To learn more about this event, visitors can visit the Museo de Playa Girón, located in the province of Matanzas. This anniversary is also present in the school calendar, when students have a short suspension of teaching activities, a sort of holiday called "Victory Week."
The Havana Biennial is a month-long contemporary art exhibition held in different places of cultural interest in the city. It is the most important and popular visual arts event in Cuba, with the aim of making interaction, exchange of ideas and opinions possible between local and international artists. Participating entities include the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts), the Wifredo Lam Center, the Centro Hispanoamericano de la Cultura (Hispanic-American Center of Culture), the Instituto Superior de Arte (Higher Institute of Art), and numerous other galleries. Visitors can discover Cuba's artistic potential and its commitment to contributing to the development of culture.

May

May is an exciting month in Cuba, filled with numerous activities that offer a glimpse into the country's unique culture. Here are two celebrations that you shouldn't miss:
International Workers' Day (May 1st): Join millions of Cubans as they parade through the streets of major cities to celebrate this important day. This colorful event includes songs, music, joy, and batucadas – a unique dance style that embodies the character and spirit of the Cuban people. The most significant and crowded parade takes place in Havana and culminates in the Plaza de la Revolución José Martí. It's an unforgettable experience that is usually graced by the President of the Republic and the general secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba.
Romerías de Mayo de la Loma de La Cruz (May 2-8): This annual celebration is held in the city of Holguín and combines music, dance, art, and a carnival atmosphere. The event is organized by the Hermanos Saíz association and is a must-see experience for anyone interested in Cuban culture. The highlight of the celebration is the pilgrimage to Loma de la Cruz – a hill that provides stunning panoramic views of the city. The Romerías is a great opportunity to interact with young Cubans and discover their infectious energy and enthusiasm.

June

If you're looking to immerse yourself in Cuban culture, there are plenty of festivities to experience in June. Here are just a few of the exciting events happening throughout the country:
Carnaval San Juan Camagüeyano: from June 24th to June 29th, Camagüey celebrates a carnival that has been taking place since the 18th century. This six-day event is packed with music, dance, parades, and tradition, making it an ideal choice for those looking to experience Cuba's vibrant culture.
Torneo Internacional de Pesca de la Aguja Ernest Hemingway: for lovers of sport fishing, this annual event brings together athletes from over 14 countries to compete on the northern coast of the Province of Havana. The tournament is held in June and is part of the Federación Internacional de Pesca Deportiva points system.
Atenas Rock Festival: features Cuba's top rock groups in Matanzas. With art exhibitions, panels, debates, and conferences, this festival is perfect for those who want to enjoy their favorite music while also exploring contemporary Cuban culture.
Festival Internacional de Boleros de Oro: every two years during the third week of June, this festival celebrates Cuban bolero music. With performances from well-known performers, composers, and musicologists, along with dance days and young singer showcases, this festival is a must-see for any lover of Cuban music.
Fiestas Sanjuaneras: takes place in Trinidad on the weekend closest to June 23rd, this colorful carnival features parades of floats, displays of galloping cowboys on beautiful horses, live music, and more. It's a lively and engaging event that exemplifies the spirit of Cuban tradition.
Jornada Cucalambeana: starting on June 30th in Las Tunas, this event is a tribute to Cuba's peasant class, featuring décimas, tonadas, and gastronomy that will immerse you in the country's unique culture.

July

July is the perfect time to immerse yourself in Cuban culture and explore the many attractions of its cities and beaches. The summer holidays of the residents coincide with various cultural events, such as the Cuban carnivals, which are part of the activities offered to tourists.
One of the most popular festivals is the Fiesta del Fuego or the Fire Festival, also known as the Festival del Caribe or the Caribbean Festival. Held in Santiago de Cuba during the first week of July, the festival lasts several days and features local musical groups that play drums, trumpets, and other instruments, producing irresistible melodies. The festivities culminate with the burning of a great devil figure that represents all things negative, making way for new and beautiful things.
In Santiago de Cuba and Havana, the celebration continues with the Cuban carnivals, one of the most important events of the year. The parades feature large floats filled with color that travel along the main arteries of each city. These are days filled with revelry, where people of all ages come together to have fun.
July 26 is also a special day in Cuba, as it marks the Día de la Rebeldía Nacional or National Rebellion Day. It commemorates the assault on the Cuartel Moncada, where a group of militants led by Fidel Castro tried to overthrow the de facto government of Fulgencio Batista, resulting in the Cuban Revolution. The day is celebrated over three days with mass rallies, speeches, and musical shows by local artists. You'll witness Cuban patriotic fervor in all its splendor with hundreds of flags raised to claim the homeland.

August

Cuba is a land of vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty, and there's no better time to visit than in August. From outdoor adventures to idyllic beaches, from colorful carnivals to rich cultural festivals, this country has something for everyone. With our expert knowledge of the destination, we can help you plan the perfect itinerary so you don't miss a thing.
Cuba's beaches are legendary for their turquoise waters and fine white sand. Varadero is the most renowned seaside city, with kilometers of coastline and all-inclusive hotels with necessary facilities. For a quieter beach experience, head to Cayo Jutías, Cayo Levisa, María La Gorda, Cayo Santa María, Playa Santa Lucía, Cayo Guillermo, or Cayo Coco, where you can enjoy water sports or explore the fascinating underwater world through snorkeling or diving.
In August, Cuba is bursting with color and energy thanks to its lively carnivals and festivals. The Carnaval de La Habana and the Carnaval de Holguín are two of the most popular and anticipated events, bringing joy and excitement to the streets with colorful parades, music, and dancing. The Fiesta de las Aguas in Baracoa is also a must-see, celebrating the anniversary of the first Cuban town founded in 1511 with artistic, musical, gastronomic, and literary activities.
The International Timbalaye Festival, also known as the International Cuban Rumba Festival, is held at the end of August in Havana and is a celebration of traditional Cuban music and culture, with music and dancers showcasing the country's African heritage. The program includes dance lessons, book presentations, shows, concerts, and guided tours of the city's important cultural landmarks.

September

Cuba has some exclusive events lined up in September that will make your trip unforgettable. Experience the authentic Cuban essence through centuries-old religious traditions, artistic festivals, and natural phenomena.
Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad on September 8th, Cuba celebrates its patron saint, Nuestra Señora de la Caridad. You can witness this festival in many parts of Cuba, but the municipality of El Cobre in the province of Santiago de Cuba is where it is particularly celebrated. The main event takes place at the Basílica Santuario Nacional de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre (Basilica Santuario National of Our Lady of Charity of Cobre). During this festival, you can witness the street processions of the "Cachita," the Cuban soldiers' Madonna who became the patroness of Cuba after the Cuban War of Independence.
Habana Art Festival is sponsored by the Ministry of Cuban Culture and its dedicated to art enthusiasts. During this ten-day festival, Havana comes alive with all forms of art: exhibitions of painting, sculpture, and photography organized by famous Cuban artists, works of the most important ballets and jazz groups. With over 700 activities in total, you'll be dazzled by the potential of Cuban art.

October

In Cuba, the month of October is full of exciting cultural events that offer a glimpse into the country's rich heritage. With so many diverse activities taking place, visitors are spoilt for choice. 
Fiesta de la Cubanía: Held annually from October 17th to 20th in the municipality of Bayamo, Granma, this festival is a fantastic opportunity to witness the diversity of Cuban culture. Meet artists, writers, and intellectuals as you explore craft fairs, publishing fairs, concerts, theatrical performances, cultural exhibitions, and engaging conferences.
Festival de Bailador Rumbero: Celebrated in Matanzas from October 10th to 19th, this ten-day festival is packed with lively dance events that showcase the unique musical genre of Cuban tradition.
Fiesta de la Cultura Iberoamericana: This event is held in Holguín during the last week of October and celebrates the meeting of two worlds. Explore the history, literature, music, and plastic arts of Ibero-American culture.
Havana International Theater Festival: Running from the last week of October to the first days of November, this festival brings theater to every corner of the Cuban capital. Watch spectacular performances by Cuban and foreign companies in theaters, squares, streets, schools, and even hospitals.
Havana International Ballet Festival: This festival is celebrated every two years in the Gran Teatro de La Habana, and features dance companies from over 50 countries. It's a great opportunity to witness some of the most famous works in the world of dance.
Aside from cultural events, October is also a month for celebrating Cuban history. The country pays tribute to two of its greatest icons: Che Guevara (on October 8th) and Camilo Cienfuegos (on October 28th). The latter is commemorated with a touching ceremony along El Malecón, where military troops offer flowers to the sea. Visitors can participate in these important events and join the Cuban people in honoring their legacy.

November

If you are looking for something to do in November, Cuba has plenty of options for all interests:
Encuentro Internacional de Bailadores de Casino y Salsa (International Casino and Salsa Meeting): Enjoy the best performances by Cuban orchestras at night concerts, as well as theoretical and practical dance workshops.
La Marabana marathon lets you explore the city while participating in a 42, 21, 15, 10, or 5-kilometer race, depending on your experience level.
The Fiesta de los Bandos Rojos y Azul immerse yourself in Cuban culture at this incredible peasant festival in Majagua, Ciego de Ávila. The festival is a week-long celebration featuring singing, dancing, and local traditions, as well as traditional drinks and delicious Cuban cuisine.

December

December is a festive month in Cuba, as it is in many other countries around the world. Noche Vieja, or New Year's Eve, is celebrated on December 31st with lively Cuban rhythms and rum, making for a night of joyous revelry. Christmas Day is also celebrated on December 25th, with vibrant lights, religious processions, and a warm family atmosphere.
On December 17th, the second-largest procession in the country takes place on the outskirts of Havana: is the procession of San Lázaro that sees devoted pilgrims offering grand offerings and accompanying the beloved "Old Lazarus" in yellow and purple garments to the Santuario Nacional de San Lázaro (National Shrine of Saint Lazarus) in the town of Rincón.
December also sees the two-week-long Feria Internacional de Artesanía FIART (International Craft Fair), featuring local and international artisan products such as ceramics, furniture, leather, footwear, fabrics, goldsmithery, hardware, lamps, and glass. The Festival Internacional del Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano (International Festival of New Latin American Cinema) is held during the first week of the month, showcasing and awarding Latin American productions. The Parrandas de Remedios, celebrated a week before December 24th, is an event that is honored with music and fireworks by the revelers of this Cuban municipality.
The entire town of Bejucal in the province of Mayabeque celebrates the Charangas de Bejucal from sunset on December 24th until sunrise. This grand event features months of preparation, with colorful floats, incredible costumes, and fireworks that all come together for a long and unforgettable celebration.