The regime has not forgotten that in Santiago de Cuba, the carnival has historically served to "release" the population's tensions. For this reason, it has decided to celebrate the Rumbón Mayor despite the blackouts, the presence of the Oropouche and dengue viruses, and inflation.
The official newspaper Sierra Maestra reported that the Carnival of Santiago de Cuba, in its adult edition, will be held this year for only three days, from July 25 to 27. As for the children's carnival, it lasted only one day, coinciding with this Sunday.
"Adjusted to the current economic possibilities of the country, the Rumbón Mayor will take place from July 25 to 27," stated the official mouthpiece, presenting the popular festivity as an effort and a gift to the population.
Although it will last only three days, Sierra Maestra informed that the Santiago de Cuba carnival will feature the return of the main dance areas, both those with live orchestras and those with recorded music.
"On July 24, at 11:00 p.m., there will be an artistic gala in Parque Céspedes to celebrate the 509th anniversary of the Villa de Santiago de Cuba," noted the newspaper in its print edition.
In 2023, Cuban Félix Font described that year's Santiago de Cuba carnival as "the worst in history" and criticized not only the high prices of food and drinks but also the poor organization of the festivities.
"The Céspedes Avenue was empty compared to other years. Most of the kiosks were privately owned, there was no uniformity in prices, and not far away were the state entities whose products were not very affordable for the entire population," lamented Font.
Font also criticized the decision to cut the music at midnight or 1 a.m., only to subject the population to the blackouts that cause so much discomfort, pointed out the Santiago native.
However, the reality of the Rumbón Mayor in 2024 will not be much different as the city continues to suffer from annoying power outages despite government promises for the summer.
The confirmed presence of the dengue and Oropouche viruses in Santiago de Cuba also complicates the realization of the city's largest popular festivity.
Challenges Facing Santiago de Cuba's Carnival
The following questions and answers address some of the key issues surrounding the upcoming carnival in Santiago de Cuba.
What are the dates for the Santiago de Cuba carnival in 2024?
The adult edition of the Santiago de Cuba carnival will be held from July 25 to 27, 2024.
What health concerns are affecting the carnival?
The confirmed presence of dengue and Oropouche viruses in Santiago de Cuba poses significant health concerns for the carnival.
Why is the carnival duration shortened this year?
The carnival duration has been shortened to three days due to the current economic difficulties in the country.
How has public reception been for the carnival in recent years?
Public reception has been critical, with complaints about high prices, poor organization, and the effects of blackouts on the festivities.