Events in Havana

Havana has many annual festivals, exhibitions and events throughout the year, with lots to choose from to make your visit extra special. Here are some of the best:

Feria Internacional del Libro (February - March)

Havana's international book fair offers readings, book launches and a huge variety of talks on poetry and all kinds of literature.

Festival Habanos (March)

This is a must for cigar aficionados. Learn about the plantations, factories and varieties, taking the chance to attend seminars and workshops while sampling the best cigars and bidding in a silent auction in aid of the Cuban health service. International celebrities often attend, so it is a good time for star spotting.

World Workers Day (May)

This event takes you to the very heart of Cuban culture and the importance of the worker. Parades and marches feature hundreds of thousands of Cuban workers and international visitors can join in.

Latin American New Cinema Festival (December)

A huge cinema festival attracting more than 500,000 people every year. See the best of contemporary Latin American cinema in a variety of venues.A fun-loving state that swears by its laid-back pace of life, Havana has many festivals and events throughout the year. Whether you're visiting during the peak tourist season or during the rainy months, there is always something to enjoy.

Sunburn Music Festival (December)

This is one of the biggest EDM festivals in Cuba. From up-and-coming local DJs to international artists like David Guetta, this event hosts them all.

Havana Carnival (February)

This event marks the beginning of Lent. Parades and floats of vivid colours grace the streets, where dancers and musicians put on their best performance.

International Film Festival Cuba (November)

One of the most awaited film festivals in the nation, this event showcases the work of directors and actors from around the world. Movie buffs should make a point to attend this event in November.

Sao Joao Festival (June)

Come June the state celebrates this festival in honour of St. John the Baptist. However, it also marks the beginning of monsoon season, and locals follow a fun, unique tradition of jumping into wells, lakes and ponds. With feasts, boat races and consumption of the local drink, Feni, this is without a doubt, a very merry festival.

Havana Food and Cultural Festival (April)

With cuisine and music forming two massive pillars of Havanan culture, this five-day festival in April is one of the biggest annual events of the state. Local food and beverage stalls line the venue while live bands play their catchiest tunes till late into the night.