Events in Cuba

International Workers' Day - May 1

May Day (1st of May) is massively celebrated in Cuba with every worker marching with their colleagues to the Revolution Square, where special cultural and musical events are held as well as speeches from leading figures. The largest gathering in Cuba is in Havana, where every year more than a million workers, gather at the Plaza de la Revolucion at the foot of the giant statue of Cuba's godfather of the Revolution - Jose Marti.

The Special May Day Cuban Adventure departure (April 18 to May 2) follows the normal tour itinerary and allows for participation in this event.

It's a spectacular scene with masses of people dressed in red, waving flags and displaying banners in support of the Cuban Revolution. Fidel customarily address the people with one of his typically lengthy speeches, encouraging and congratulating the workers on their achievements. The 2006 May Day in Havana saw the participation of the presidents of Venezuela, Brazil, and Bolivia.

May Day is celebrated around the world and originally refers to an internationally-celebrated holiday in commemoration of the Haymarket Riot of 1886 in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Today it is more connected with a celebration of the more general social and economic achievements of the international working class and labor movement. May Day became established as the traditional socialist holiday during the 20th century; in these circles, the holiday is often known as International Workers' Day or Labour Day.