Cuba’s 26th of July celebrations

The 26^th July is arguably the most important date on Cuba’s calendar, since it was on this day in 1953 that the Cuban Revolution began, led by Fidel Castro.

It was the first serious attempt to overthrow dictator Fulgencio Batista and a government that was at the service of foreign interests and fight for the freedom of Cuba. Many of the 134 rebel comrades were caught attacking Batista’s Moncada Barracks in the eastern city of Santiago and sentenced to time in prison, however, spirits were not dampened, and the start of a social movement set to change the world was born.

In 1959, victory was finally theirs.

How Does Cuba Celebrate National Revolution Day?

Crowned National Revolution Day (Dia de la Revolucion), the 26^th July officially became a public holiday, with the government further adding the 25^th and 27^th into the mix in 1976. The streets of Cuba buzz with atmosphere on all three days, where you’ll notice the flag of the revolution (which is red and black with a large 26 in the middle) prominently displayed to mark this special occasion.

You can expect a flurry of celebrations and events held in towns and cities across the country, with huge crowds gathering for lively rallies held in central plazas and to listen to the president’s speech. Offices, schools, and businesses are also closed during this celebration period.

Who Was José Martí?

Cuban poet, philosopher, journalist, and publisher José Martí had many strings to his bow, but being a Cuban national hero is probably the most prominent, due to his instrumental role in the liberation of his country.

His political activism raising awareness for Cuban Independence from Spain made him a key figure during the Cuban War of Independence, and his literature (including poems, political journalism, and particularly a newspaper he founded called ‘Patria’) became the official mouthpiece for the movement.

It took a few attempts (and a couple of exiles, too) but in 1892, finally Martí’s Cuban Revolutionary Party launched. Two years later, the island nation plunged into war and Martí was killed in battle – but to this day his legacy is celebrated on 26^th July National Revolution Day and 28^th January, his birthday.