"MAKING OF THE DE LAS PARRANDAS DE REMEDIOS" Tour

"MAKING OF THE DE LAS PARRANDAS DE REMEDIOS" Tour

San Juan de los Remedios, one of the oldest towns in Cuba, is a true colonial jewel located in the province of Villa Clara. Founded in 1513, this charming town preserves a unique atmosphere where history, architecture, and living traditions come together to offer visitors an authentic and enriching cultural experience. The historic center is centered around the iconic Plaza Martí, considered one of the most beautiful and distinctive colonial squares in the country. Surrounding the square are remarkable architectural landmarks such as the San Juan Bautista Parish Church, renowned for its magnificent baroque altarpiece, regarded as one of the most important in Cuba. Cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses, and wrought-iron balconies invite visitors to stroll through time and rediscover the elegance of the colonial era.

LAS PARRANDAS DE REMEDIOS – CUBA’S MOST SPECTACULAR TRADITIONAL FESTIVAL: Las Parrandas de Remedios is one of Cuba’s oldest, most vibrant, and visually spectacular cultural celebrations, held annually in the historic town of San Juan de los Remedios, in Villa Clara province. With origins dating back to the early 19th century, this unique festival has become a symbol of Cuban creativity, community pride, and living tradition. At the heart of Las Parrandas is a friendly yet intense rivalry between the town’s two historic neighborhoods, El Carmen and San Salvador. For months, each side prepares in absolute secrecy, designing breathtaking illuminated floats, monumental papier-mâché structures, elaborate costumes, music ensembles, and choreographed performances, all revealed during the grand night of celebration.

The festival reaches its peak with an unforgettable explosion of fireworks, light shows, live music, and street performances, transforming the town into an open-air stage filled with color, rhythm, and emotion. The atmosphere is electric, drawing visitors from across Cuba and around the world who come to witness a celebration unlike any other in the Caribbean. Beyond its visual spectacle, Las Parrandas de Remedios represents a deep expression of local identity, collective effort, and cultural continuity. Entire families and generations participate, preserving techniques, stories, and traditions passed down over centuries. In recognition of its cultural importance, the festival has been declared part of Cuba’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

For travelers, attending Las Parrandas de Remedios is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—an opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic Cuban culture, explore a beautifully preserved colonial town, and become part of a living tradition where history, art, music, and community spirit come together in an unforgettable celebration.

Tour Itinerary:

• Meeting Point: Hotel Barcelona
• Time: Departure at 9:00 am
• Transfer to one of the carnival districts (El Carmen or San Salvador).
• Tour of the facilities to observe the construction of floats, street decorations, and lanterns.
• Visit to Taberna 7 Juanes for a cocktail. Guided tour of the Parrandas Museum.
• Lunch at Hotels E.

The tour includes:

• Transfer from the hotel.
• Visit to a carnival district.
• Cocktail at Taberna 7 Juanes (non-alcoholic option available).
• Entrance and tour of the Parrandas Museum.
• Four-course lunch with one drink included.