Dance critic and journalist Ahmed Piñeiro Fernández raised concerns this Saturday over Havana’s Latin American Stadium operating as a late-night club until 4 AM, even as the rest of the city is plunged into darkness.
"A city (or rather, a country) shrouded in darkness, yet the Latin American Stadium turns into a 'flashy' nightclub, often extending until 4 in the morning. The 'noise' is bothersome, and under these conditions, it's insulting," Piñeiro wrote on his Facebook page.
The accompanying photograph illustrates a brilliantly lit structure amidst a pitch-black urban landscape, captured at night from a window or rooftop overlooking the venue.
Known as El Coloso del Cerro and capable of seating approximately 55,000 people, the stadium opened to advertising and commercial sponsorships under the Cuban Sports System Law 179, effective since May 13, managed by Cubadeportes S.A., as announced by the stadium itself.
Energy Crisis Strains the Nation
This complaint surfaces during one of Cuba's most severe energy crises in recent memory. On Saturday, 11 thermoelectric units were offline—six due to breakdowns and five undergoing maintenance—projecting a shortfall of 2,050 MW during the evening peak.
Havana has experienced power outages lasting between 20 and 30 continuous hours, with the national deficit surpassing 2,200 MW on June 25, setting a historical record nearly matched on July 3 after the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant suffered its seventeenth malfunction this year.
Public Outrage Over Disparities
"The insult is universal. La Piragua has set up a platform with spotlights and a massive light show for a party, while just meters away, a whole neighborhood was left without power for more than two hours today. There is no respect for the people's suffering," one individual remarked on Piñeiro's post.
In June, a social media user criticized that La Piragua on the Malecón hosted illuminated parties late into the night, while entire neighborhoods in the capital endured prolonged blackouts.
That same month, the San Juan Camagüeyano festival was held with bonfires and parades, even as Camagüey faced severe power cuts.
In May, a resident near the Focsa building reported that their area received just four hours of electricity while the Cubadisco festival at the Cuba Pavilion remained fully lit.
In October 2025, the Capri Hotel in El Vedado hosted a loud music event, leaving entire neighborhoods of Havana in darkness.
The Cuban Conflict Observatory recorded 1,133 protests in April 2026 alone, with 153 directly related to power and water shortages, highlighting the frustration of a population witnessing the prioritization of entertainment lighting while their homes remain unlit.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Woes
Why is Havana experiencing severe blackouts?
Havana is facing severe blackouts due to a combination of outdated infrastructure, breakdowns in thermoelectric units, and maintenance issues, leading to significant energy deficits.
What is the public reaction to the energy crisis?
The public reaction has been one of frustration and anger, as evidenced by numerous protests and social media outcries about the disparity in power distribution and prioritization of lighting for entertainment venues.
How are public venues like the Latin American Stadium managing to stay lit?
Public venues like the Latin American Stadium are staying lit through commercial sponsorships and advertising agreements, which may prioritize their power needs over those of residential areas.