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Christmas Cuba holidays
Spending the holidays in Cuba means you can look forward to fiestas filled with salsa dancing and rum cocktails. If you want a culture-soaked Christmas, look no further than Havana’s colourful colonial buildings and bustling markets. There’s also plenty of opportunity for relaxation on Cuba’s sparkling shores. From the golden sands of Varadero to the vibrant architecture of Havana, a Cuban holiday is sure to be the adventure of a lifetime...
Christmas holidays to Cuba
Christmas traditions in Cuba
Christmas Eve is called 'Nochebuena' (which means 'the good night') and families celebrate with dinner and a huge party. Traditionally, a spit-roasted suckling pig is prepared and served with roasted plantains, rice and vegetables. Some towns host street parties and parades on Christmas Eve. Remedios is known for its especially extravagant fiesta called ‘Las Parrandas’ which carries on long into the night.
Three Kings Day, on 6th January, is celebrated by many families. It is a gift-giving holiday but on a much smaller scale. On the evening of January 5th, families leave out buckets of water and freshly cut grass for the camels of the Three Kings and write letters to Gaspar, Melchior and Balthasar (the Three Kings), asking them for the gifts they want this year. Every year, Havana hosts a vibrant parade involving live bands, conga dancers and stilt walkers.
Best places to celebrate Christmas in Cuba
Soak up the sun this Christmas at the Jardines del Rey. This collection of archipelagos boasts powder white sands and crystal waters, perfect for getting away from it all. Enjoy an idyllic oasis in the beach resorts of Cayo Coco or Cayo Santa Maria, islands just north of mainland Cuba.
A holiday at Christmas to Jardines del Rey isn't complete without a trip to the nearby Remedios. This city is one of the oldest settlements in Cuba and is most known for Las Parrandas de Remedios, a popular and lively fiesta, which takes place on Christmas Eve.
Best hotels to celebrate Christmas in Cuba
Most resort hotels in Cuba will want guests to get in the festive spirit at this special time of year and will host a memorable Gala dinner on Christmas Day.
Families seeking out warm weather and pristine white sand beaches for the festive period will love Grand Memories Santa Maria in Cayo Santa Maria. This large all inclusive resort includes a dazzling selection of pools, plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy and a kids club. For an unforgettable week in the sun, treat your family to a week at the 5-star Melia Jardines del Rey, in Cayo Coco. Enjoy the idyllic calm water of Flamenco Beach, the sumptuous cuisine choices at the 10 restaurants and the exciting entertainment programme.
Adult groups and couples will favour the Melia Cayo Coco, a stunning adult-only and all inclusive resort set on Las Coloradas Beach. Imagine beautiful, white beachy bungalows on stilts overlooking a natural lagoon and a choice of five restaurants and seven bars to choose from each day.