Captivating Cuba

Hi there. I'm not sure what happened to November, but it seems to have flown past and people are starting to discuss how to celebrate New Year. I was trying to think of my favourite New Year's celebration so far and I wanted to tell you about it in case you're still trying to decide where you're going to welcome 2010.

The best New Years I ever celebrated was when I was in Cuba on my holidays. To Cuba, the first of January is a particularly significant date, as it is not just New Years Day, but also the date on which the Cubans officially celebrate Liberation Day. This celebration marks the triumph of the Cuban revolution, ended by Fidel Castro and his troops as they drove out Batista's dictatorship. With two reasons to celebrate, it is not surprising that Cubans tend to see in New Year with a bang.

Having been told that Havana was where the most spectacular celebrations were held, I made sure I was back in the capital for the 31st December. I planned to see in the New Year on the seafront, where people gather in their hundreds to watch the magnificent fireworks display that is held each year. The fireworks certainly did not disappoint, although in the end I was not amongst those watching from the seafront.

Picture Flickr - sonewfangled

For those 300 people lucky enough to get tickets, Cathedral Square is the real place to start the New Year and I was fortunate enough to know somebody with a spare. The square is a must see for anyone going on their holidays to Cuba, as it is full of life and festivity all year round. However, the atmosphere on New Year's Eve is unmatched on any other day of the year. The square is closed to the public whilst those with tickets enjoy a gala dinner, seated at tables that are laid out by the only restaurant located in the square, El Patio. Drinks flow all night long, with waiters and waitresses topping you up with wine, beer, champagne and especially with the famous Habana club rum, as you enjoy a combination of Cuba's finest cuisines.

Picture Flickr - Lauras512

But there is more to New Year in Cathedral Square than just the food and drink. A stage is built towards the end of December, and on New Year's Eve this stage becomes the platform for a truly magnificent display of Cuban music and dance. Watch the variety show, and join the crowds as they dance along to some of the most impressive musicians and dancers that Cuba has to offer. This truly is one of the most spectacular performances you are likely to see, and once it has finished, the fireworks are the perfect finale.

New Year at Cathedral Square is an impressive celebration, but if you're unable to get tickets, there are plenty of other restaurants around Havana that will be hosting similar festivities. There's no doubt that the Cubans know how to celebrate New Year better than anybody else, and if you're in the midst of planning your holidays to Cuba, I'd advise you to make sure you're in Havana at the turning of the year.

Now, who's going to buy me a ticket to Cuba for Christmas?
Jasna

posted at: 12:02 | path: /jasna | permanent link to this entry | 4 comments