Cuba has some of the most vibrant events in the world, and Charangas de Bejucal is no exception. This celebration, taking place around the Christmas and New Year holidays, is one of the best times to experience an authentic Cuban carnival. Read on to discover everything you need to know about Charangas de Bejucal in Cuba.
What is the Charangas de Bejucal?
Besides the Parranda de Remedios and the Havana Carnival, Charangas de Bejucal is one of Cuba’s largest and most exciting festivals. The concept of this event is based on the rivalry between two different conga groups. The first group, “La Ceiba de Plata,” is characterized by the symbol of a scorpion and the colour blue. In contrast, the other group, “La Espina de Oro,” is symbolized by the colour red and a rooster figure.
During this carnival, which takes place every year on December 24, 25, 26, and January 1 in the provincial town of Bejucal, the two sides “fight” through music, dancing, parades, and colourful decorations.
History of the Charangas de Bejucal
The beginning of this celebration dates back to 1830, when, on December 24, enslaved people were temporarily freed by their slave owners. The slaves would join the Creoles and the “free blacks” in the cabildos – societies based on African origin that had their own music, culture, and dance. These cabildos kept African languages, traditions, beliefs, and customs alive, even if only for a few holidays per year.
This December 24 event would begin with a Catholic mass. Afterwards, Africans were permitted to have their own religious ceremonies in honour of their deities and gods, which would include playing drums, singing, and dancing in the streets of Bejucal. Because each cabildo had its own music and dancing, a rivalry between two of the groups began to form over the course of many years. Eventually, the rivalry itself became the main event of this festival.
At the time, these two groups were referred to as “La Musicanga” (La Ceiba de Plata) and “Los Malayos” (La Espina de Oro). Because of the tension between these groups, the construction and planning of their parade floats are conducted as secretly as possible to prevent information about them from being leaked to the other side. Today, their floats get as large as 20 meters and boast over-the-top lights, colours, and decorations.
How is Charangas de Bejucal celebrated?
Every year on December 24th, people gather in the Bejucal town square in the early morning hours. The two sides are positioned on the battlefield, each wearing their respective colours and symbols – blue with a scorpion or red with a rooster.
Each side puts on a show with dancing, traditional music, and plenty of vibrant colours, accompanied by fireworks. Large crowds come to watch these events, and this carnival has several main “characters,” like the Macorina, Mojiganga, Bollera, Kulona, and Yerbero. The most popular of these is La Macorina – a man dressed as a woman.
The highlight of this celebration is when both sides reveal their floats during the parade, also known as the mackerel. Because each side wants to outdo the other, these float structures are extremely impressive.
What to eat at Charangas de Bejucal
There are so many delicious Cuban foods to try during Charangas de Bejucal. Here are just a few:
- Pan con Lechón: This popular street food sandwich is made from roast pork.
- Churros: These strips of fried sweet dough are often covered in cinnamon and sugar and dipped in chocolate.
- Picadillo a la Criolla: This meat stew, featuring chilli bell pepper and tomato sauce, is served with congri, made from red beans.
- Mojito: No matter where you are in Cuba, sipping on a mojito is a must! This refreshing drink is made from white rum, mint, sugar, and lime juice.
You’ll also find several typical carnival foods at Charangas de Bejucal, like popcorn and cotton candy.
Several excellent restaurants are nearby if you’d like to venture off the beaten path, including Pizzeria 2 Amigos.
Visitor Tips: Charangas de Bejucal
- While some Cubans may speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can improve your interaction with locals.
- Plan your transportation to and within Bejucal. Consider local transportation options from Havana, such as taxis or buses.
- Have some pesos on hand in case certain businesses don’t take card payments.
- Bring sunscreen!
Other things to do near Charangas de Bejucal
While Bejucal is a small town best known for Charangas de Bejucal, there are plenty of other attractions in Cuba if you have access to a car or taxi. Here are some of the best things to do during your trip:
- Explore Havana: Bejucal is about a 45-minute drive to Havana, so it’s worth exploring this capital city for a few days. Check out the historic Old Havana, visit the Malecón, and marvel at the architecture of this city.
- Mayabeque Beaches: Spend a few days along the beaches on the Mayabeque coastline, about an hour and a half from Bejucal. Playa Jibacoa is one of the best, known for its clear waters and coral reefs, making it a perfect spot for snorkelling.
- Las Terrazas: Visit the eco-community of Las Terrazas, about an hour and a half from Bejucal, known for its sustainable practices and natural beauty. Enjoy endless outdoor activities here, like hiking, bird watching, and exploring the lush landscape.
With Cuban dancing, lively music, delicious food, and memorable parades, Charangas de Bejucal is a must-visit and one of the best ways to experience the holiday season in Cuba!
Final thoughts
This remote national park is more than a tropical oasis and stunning beach area – it’s a sacred habitat for millions of animals and plant species. If you love experiencing rugged nature and lush wilderness areas, a trip to Guanahacabibes National Park is well worth it.
Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist. Click here for more info on Cuba holidays, Multi Centre Cuba Holidays or Tailor Made Cuba Holidays please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Cuba holiday specialists on 020 8038 7100 or email enquiries@lovecuba.com
