The age-old Cuban tradition of burning effigies to mark the end of the year has taken on a new dimension, spreading across the island, including to eastern provinces like Santiago de Cuba and Granma. This year, the practice has assumed a political and satirical edge, with effigies symbolizing figures linked to the issues faced by Cubans, such as the ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada shared images on social media, highlighting the burning of these effigies in Santiago de Cuba. "Many people from Santiago wrote to say they participated in this and other traditions to welcome 2025 with new hopes. Among the most notable in the early hours of New Year's Day is the traditional burning of the Old Year effigy, as a way of bidding farewell to the negative aspects of 2024," Mayeta noted.
Symbolic Traditions Gaining Attention
Other customs, such as walking around the neighborhood with suitcases, a symbolic gesture to attract travel opportunities, were also mentioned. However, it was the effigy burning that garnered the most attention, featuring figures bearing names of individuals or entities blamed for the country's woes.
In Granma, specifically in Marea del Portillo, Pilón municipality, residents chose to burn an effigy representing a well-known Cuban-American senator. Facebook user Ysneri Oliva posted a photo showing two effigies made with old clothes, straw, and cardboard. One bore a sign with the name "Marco Rubio."
Oliva remarked, "We are saying goodbye to the old year to welcome the new one with prosperity and joy, so the people can feel happy with the new year."
Tradition Spreads Across Cuba
Once primarily a western Cuban tradition, the effigy burning has gradually moved eastward, reflecting how customs evolve alongside the population's need for expression.
Amid the festivities, unusual incidents also emerged. In Villa Clara, a man reported on social media that his old-year effigy, placed outside his home, was stolen. The theft occurred at 8:30 p.m., and the owner expressed outrage, calling it another sign of the island's moral decline. The effigy bore a sign referencing Real Madrid fans, leading to online jokes about the thief's identity.
The burning of effigies, a tradition also found in other Latin American countries, remains a beacon of hope for Cubans. While some use this custom to end cycles and attract good fortune, others see it as a means to voice dissatisfaction and challenge the nation's hardships.
Understanding Cuba's Year-End Effigy Tradition
What is the significance of burning effigies in Cuba?
Burning effigies in Cuba is a traditional practice to symbolize the farewell to the negative aspects of the past year, inviting new beginnings with hope and positivity.
Why have effigies taken on a political tone in recent years?
Effigies have adopted a political tone as a form of expression for Cubans to address and critique figures and entities they associate with the country's problems.
Has the tradition of effigy burning always been widespread across Cuba?
Originally more common in western Cuba, the tradition of effigy burning has spread to eastern regions in recent years, showing its growing importance as a cultural expression.