How do Cubans celebrate the end of the year?
In the 1960s, as we have already explained, Christmas was definitively removed from Cuban culture. The small fir trees, the nativity scene, nougats, marzipan and gifts became symbols associated with the bourgeoisie. However, today it is possible to see decorations typical of this period, and even palm trees illuminated in the style of Christmas trees.
Some traditional families still gather for dinner on December 24, but it is December 31 and January 1 that mark the real highlights of the festivities.
There is nothing like waiting until midnight with the family, then going out to burn the effigy representing the past year, throwing water in the street, and congratulating neighbors and friends by hugging them.
One of the most notable traditions is the burning of a large doll symbolizing the Old Year. It is often inspired by a notable figure from the past year, whether it be a personality from a television soap opera or a significant event. One could imagine effigies representing CUP notes or politicians like Trump!
Another widespread tradition is to throw buckets of water into the street at midnight, symbolizing the purification of homes and the elimination of bad experiences from the past year.
Since travel opened up, there has been a custom of walking the streets with a suitcase at midnight, hoping to attract the luck of traveling soon.
On December 31st, the rural tradition is to rise early to slaughter a pig, often raised for months until one becomes attached to it and gives it a name. Some families prefer to buy the meat from the local butcher, but nothing beats the spit-roasted pig, prepared with one hand turning the spit and a glass of rum in the other, while cousins play dominoes.
A typical lunch includes cassava cooked with mojo (a sauce made from bitter orange, oil and garlic) and gandinga (pork liver marinated in spices), without adding water or lemon so as not to make the liver too tough.
After lunch, a siesta is required to recover before the midnight festivities. In the evening, the table is set with roast pork, congrí rice, cassava with mojo, lettuce and tomato salad, and often a dessert of guava or sweet fritters.
Since the Revolution, the televised New Year's Eve party, punctuated by musicals and comedy sketches, has become a tradition. Just before midnight, families await the official countdown broadcast on television, at which time they exchange wishes for happiness and prosperity. At midnight sharp, a cider is uncorked to dance until dawn.
This year, with the health and economic challenges, the organization of the festivities remains uncertain. However, despite the difficulties, the festive atmosphere is taking hold. The queues are getting longer to buy pork, and beers are hard to find. Rum, this essential ingredient of Cuban celebrations, will however compensate for the absence of beer, and even chicken could replace pork on some tables.
Whatever happens, families will be reunited, and with a little rum, rice and beans, they will say goodbye to the past year. Together, they will burn the effigy of the Old Year or throw a bucket of water in the street, hoping that the new year will bring well-being and prosperity to all Cubans.
Happy New Year to all!
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