Guantánamo.- The San Joaquín 2026 festivities in Guantánamo culminated in a vibrant display of cultural heritage and community spirit, honoring several significant milestones.
The celebrations paid tribute to the centenary of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz’s birth, the 25th anniversary of the *Renacer Cossiá* traditional performance group, the 20th anniversary of the *Montompolito* folklore troupe, and the 10th anniversary of the *Raíces del Sur* children’s *comparsa* (carnival troupe).
The closing event featured the adult *comparsa* parades proceeding toward the Rubén López Sabariego House of Culture. The parade commenced with choreographic and musical tributes to the patron saint, San Joaquín, performed by the comparsa bearing his name, which was founded in 2023. The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by performances from the Babul Folkloric Ballet Company.
Integral to the celebration’s rhythm were conga bands and dancers from Guantánamo’s traditional comparsas, including El Algarrobo, Negro Fino, and La Loma del Chivo.
These groups energized the streets with their dynamic beats played on the corneta china (Chinese trumpet), a distinctive instrument synonymous with regional festivities.
Adding to the diversity of acts were the Los Perros Music Band, acclaimed recipients of the Memoria Viva Award. Renowned for their acoustic performances featuring wind and percussion instruments without electronic amplification, they brought an authentic sound to the festival.
The procession also included costumed street performers portraying iconic local characters such as Doctor Chiringa, “Death in the Raw” (la muerte en cueros), and San Joaquín del Guaso, enriching the parade’s cultural tapestry.
Highlighting the fusion of cultural identities, the Los Cossía folklore troupe—of Haitian heritage—joined the Arquímedes parade groups to present the theme “Of Festivity and Cuban Identity” (De fiesta y cubanía).
Additionally, Juan Francés’s Charangón delivered a compelling presentation titled “Africa in the House and Its Tradition,” further emphasizing the event’s dedication to celebrating diverse roots.
The presence of Capero Mayor Alfredo Agramonte Borges, esteemed recipient of the Memoria Viva Award, added a notable honor to the closing day of San Joaquín 2026.
Organizers announced that the winners of both the children’s and adult parades would be revealed at the conclusion of the summer season during the “Summer with My People in Guantánamo” finale, ensuring continued engagement with this cherished cultural tradition.
San Joaquín 2026 successfully celebrated Guantánamo’s rich cultural identity, uniting generations through music, dance, and folklore in a festival that honors both history and contemporary community expression.
