The wife of the Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel and "not the first lady of Cuba" Lis Cuesta Peraza, was present at the celebrations leading up to the arrival of the Chinese New Year in Havana, according to a video shared by the embassy of the Asian country on the Island.
The event held this Saturday, set at the iconic Paseo del Prado, was called the First Chinese New Year Fair, and it was attended by the Chinese ambassador to Cuba, Hua Xin.
During the event, Xin highlighted the celebrations for the Year of the Snake "with the hope that China and Cuba achieve greater development and increased cooperation."
Attendees enjoyed exhibitions of Chinese traditions, including the Dragon Dance performed by students from the Cuban School of Wushu and Qigong, martial arts presentations, calligraphy displays, and tastings of typical cuisine from the Asian country. Additionally, handmade products and souvenirs reflecting China's rich cultural heritage were offered, highlighted the agency Xinhua en español.
Although the Cuban state media did not mention Lis Cuesta's presence at the event, her participation reinforces the Cuban government's commitment to maintaining and deepening bilateral relations with China, an important ally for the regime.
The ambassador Xin recalled that, starting in 2023, the Spring Festival was officially included as a holiday in the United Nations calendar and, in 2024, it was inscribed by UNESCO on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, noted the Cuban state agency Prensa Latina.
Additionally, it was emphasized that in 2025, the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Cuba will be celebrated, which they will use to further strengthen cooperation and friendship between both countries.
The Chinese New Year 2025: Year of the Wood Snake
Lunar New Year 2025, which will begin on January 29, marks the start of the Year of the Wood Snake in the Chinese zodiac calendar. This is a key event in Chinese culture and in many Asian communities around the world, known as the Spring Festival. The celebrations, which last for 15 days, combine ancient traditions with wishes for prosperity, fortune, and harmony for the coming year.
Meaning of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac
The Snake is the sixth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac and symbolizes wisdom, intuition, elegance, and transformation. It is associated with clever and reflective individuals who value introspection and careful planning.
The Wood element, which governs the year 2025, brings qualities such as creativity, empathy, and personal growth, suggesting a period of renewal and achievements for those who can adapt to change. This year is seen as an ideal time for learning, innovation, and strengthening personal relationships.
Traditions of the Chinese New Year
- Preparation of the house: Before the start of the year, families clean their homes to remove accumulated bad luck and decorate with red and gold ornaments that symbolize fortune and happiness.
- Family dinner: New Year's Eve is the time for family gatherings, featuring a special meal that includes traditional dishes such as fish (a symbol of abundance) and nian gao (rice cakes for prosperity).
- Red envelopes (hongbao): Red envelopes containing money are given to children and young people as a gesture of good wishes for the future.
- Dances and Fireworks: The dances of the Serpent and the Dragon, accompanied by drums and firecrackers, are common to scare away evil spirits and welcome the new year.
- Festival of Lanterns: Concludes the festivities with a spectacular display of lights and decorated lanterns that symbolize the end of the festive cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chinese New Year Celebrations in Cuba
Who is Lis Cuesta and what role did she play in the Chinese New Year celebrations in Havana?
Lis Cuesta is the wife of Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel and, although she is not officially the First Lady of Cuba, she participated in the Chinese New Year celebrations in Havana. Her presence at the event underscores the importance that the Cuban government places on bilateral relations with China.
What activities were carried out during the Chinese New Year Fair in Havana?
During the Chinese New Year Fair in Havana, exhibitions of Chinese traditions were held, such as the Dragon Dance, martial arts performances, calligraphy displays, and tastings of traditional cuisine. Handicrafts and souvenirs reflecting Chinese culture were also available.
What is the meaning of the Year of the Wooden Snake in the Chinese calendar?
The Year of the Wood Snake symbolizes wisdom, intuition, elegance, and transformation. The Snake is the sixth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac and is associated with clever and contemplative individuals. The Wood element brings qualities such as creativity and personal growth, heralding a year of renewal and achievements.
How have relations between Cuba and China strengthened recently?
The relations between Cuba and China have strengthened through multifaceted cooperation agreements covering political, economic, and military areas. Recently, China has sent donations to support Cuba's energy crisis, and visa fee exemptions have been established to promote tourism and cultural exchange.
What is the significance of the Spring Festival in the international context?
The Spring Festival was included as a public holiday in the United Nations calendar in 2023 and in 2024 was inscribed by UNESCO on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This highlights its cultural significance and global recognition.
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