The time-honored Parrandas of Guayos, located in Cabaiguán, Sancti Spíritus province, remain on hold despite widespread frustration among locals who had spent months preparing for the centennial celebration of this festivity, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
This decision was officially announced by local authorities through institutional channels, citing economic, health, and social sensitivity concerns following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in eastern Cuba.
"Recent times have been exceedingly challenging for Cubans... and now a hurricane has ravaged the eastern part of the country, leaving hundreds with nothing," stated the local government's message in the Escambray newspaper. The decision, according to the statement, came after "extensive discussions" with provincial authorities, neighborhood directors, and community leaders.
Nonetheless, many residents of Guayos view the cancellation as unwarranted and as another instance of the political unwillingness to sustain popular cultural expressions amidst the country's widespread crisis.
On social media, users expressed concerns that the resources already invested might go to waste and that the community's enthusiasm "has been trampled by bureaucratic decisions."
The Parrandas of Guayos, featuring the neighborhoods El Chivo and La Rana, are among the oldest and most cherished celebrations in central Cuba. Each year, the community comes together for months to build floats, create fireworks, and rehearse dance troupes in a vibrant display of color, music, and tradition.
This year, 2025, was supposed to mark the festival's centennial, a milestone for generations of residents who, even in times of scarcity, have fought for their right to celebrate their culture and local identity.
"Initiatives were prepared, resources were invested, and a large influx of visitors was expected... now everything is indefinitely on hold," lamented a local resident in comments shared online.
In its statement, the Cabaiguán municipal government cited the challenging economic and health situation, including the presence of arbovirosis in the region, and emphasized the need to prioritize aid for the eastern part of the country after Hurricane Melissa.
However, they assured that "Guayos' main festival will take place once conditions allow" and that "all acquired resources will be preserved."
Despite these assurances, disillusionment prevails in Guayos. Many recall that this is not the first time authorities have canceled the parrandas due to political or force majeure reasons, while the community continues to await genuine support to preserve its cultural heritage.
The parrandas—declared by UNESCO in 2018 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity—are integral to Cuba's cultural fabric, particularly in the central regions.
The suspension of these festivities in Guayos, beyond its emotional impact, highlights the loss of cultural autonomy and institutional deterioration under state control over social and artistic life on the island.
Understanding the Impact of Parrandas Suspension in Guayos
Why were the Parrandas of Guayos suspended?
The Parrandas of Guayos were suspended due to economic, health, and social concerns following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in eastern Cuba.
What is the significance of the Guayos parrandas?
The Guayos parrandas are one of the oldest and most beloved cultural celebrations in central Cuba, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
How have residents reacted to the suspension?
Residents have expressed frustration and disappointment, viewing the suspension as an example of political unwillingness to support cultural expressions amid the country's crisis.