A Cuban mother showed on TikTok what she was able to buy to celebrate her son's first birthday, spending over 9,000 Cuban pesos, which is equivalent to 30 dollars at the informal exchange rate.
"Celebrating a birthday here now is a luxury. I'm going to make a little decoration, take some photos," says the young woman in the video as she shows the items bought for the occasion: Paw Patrol themed balloons, a blue tablecloth, a sparkler candle, and a decoration set with more balloons and a number "1," referring to the child's age.
The video, published by the user @anita.cubanita64 on TikTok, highlights how the current economic crisis has turned what was once a common celebration into a privilege. In the clip, which has already garnered thousands of views, the young woman details that everything shown cost her 9,250 Cuban pesos.
Although it doesn't mention food or drinks, the focus on decoration highlights the high cost of the most basic products needed to set up a children's party on the island. Currently, an average salary in Cuba is around 4,000 pesos per month, which represents less than half of the budget spent solely on decorations.
The situation described by this mother reflects a daily reality for thousands of Cuban families, who must juggle to avoid missing special occasions. What used to be a simple snack with games and music has now become a financial burden that is difficult to bear.
On social media, several users reacted to the video with messages of admiration for the young woman’s efforts, as well as criticisms of the high cost of items that are not necessities but hold significant symbolic value in childhood.
Frequently asked questions about the cost of celebrations and the economic situation in Cuba
How much does it cost to celebrate a children's birthday party in Cuba?
Celebrating a birthday in Cuba can cost over 9,000 Cuban pesos, which is around 30 dollars at the informal exchange rate. This cost includes basic decorations such as themed balloons, a tablecloth, a sparkler candle, and a decoration combo. The current economic situation has turned what was once a simple celebration into an unattainable luxury for many families.
How does the economic crisis in Cuba affect family celebrations?
The economic crisis in Cuba has turned family celebrations into a significant financial challenge. The average salary in Cuba is insufficient to cover the high costs of basic products for events, such as decorations and food. This forces many families to forgo celebrating special occasions or to look for more affordable alternatives.
What does spending on celebrations reflect about the economic situation in Cuba?
Spending on celebrations reflects a growing gap between the income of Cubans and the cost of living. Families must allocate a significant portion of their salary to cover costs that are not essential but hold important symbolic value. This highlights how inflation and the economic crisis are impacting the quality of life on the island.
Why is celebrating a birthday considered a luxury in Cuba?
Celebrating a birthday is considered a luxury due to the high cost of the necessary items for the occasion, which include decorations and other party supplies. With an average salary that does not exceed 4,000 Cuban pesos per month, many families cannot afford to spend on celebrations without compromising other basic needs.
Filed under:
