Holidays & Observances in Cuba

Cuba is a Spanish-speaking country in the Caribbean. It is the largest country in the Caribbean with the second largest population. Cuba was originally owned by Spain, and it has kept many Spanish customs combining them with African and indigenous customs to create the unique culture of Cuba today. Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion, though Cuba is a secular state, and religious observance is discouraged. Religious holidays are generally spent quietly at home, though Christmas has become a more publically celebrated holiday in recent years. Carnival is also celebrated festively in Havana every year, though it has lost most of its religious connotation. Holidays relating to national pride are celebrated throughout the country with great joy.