"At the very least, you were the mayor of the town": The grand welcome party for a Cuban who returned to Cuba after 7 years

A Cuban returned to the Island after 7 years, welcomed with a huge celebration in his neighborhood, despite a blackout. The festivities included a conga line, costumes, and reflected the excitement of the family reunion.

Returns to CubaPhoto © @yan_cub_ / TikTok

A Cuban who returned to the Island after seven and a half years was greeted with a huge celebration in his neighborhood, where family, friends, and neighbors organized an impromptu conga with music, costumes, and welcome signs.

The video, published on TikTok by the user @yan_cub_, shows several people dancing with yellow balloons, a banner featuring a figure in black, and women dressed as rumberas, all while everyone applauds the newcomer.

The scene takes place at night and, as seen in the recording, in the midst of a blackout, which didn't stop the party from coming alive with the beat of drums.

"My return to Cuba after 7 and a half years," wrote the protagonist in the clip's description, which has already garnered dozens of reactions and emotionally charged comments.

"Uffff. I've seen it several times with tears of emotion, nostalgia, and so many feelings that are impossible to describe. Enjoy your family, blessings," commented a user. Another, with humor, claimed: "At the very least, you were the mayor of the town." There are also plenty of messages like: "How beautiful that is."

The video captures the intensity with which many Cuban families experience the reunion with loved ones after long years of separation due to migration, a common experience marked by uprooting, nostalgia, and, at times, returns that turn into genuine celebrations.

Frequently asked questions about the emotional reunions of Cubans abroad upon their return to the island

Why are the reunions of Cubans returning to the island so emotional?

Reunions are so emotional due to the long periods of separation that many Cubans face when they emigrate, creating a deep sense of nostalgia and the desire to see their loved ones again. The economic situation and migration restrictions add to the significance and anticipation of these encounters.

How do social media influence the visibility of these family reunions?

Social media allows for the massive sharing of these emotional moments, generating empathy and connection among users who are experiencing similar situations. Platforms like TikTok have become a space where Cubans document their experiences, giving visibility to stories of migration and family reunions.

What challenges do Cubans face when trying to return to their country after emigrating?

Cubans face economic challenges and immigration restrictions when trying to return to their country. The economic crisis in Cuba and the difficulties in obtaining travel permits complicate the planning of these reunions, turning them into highly emotional and special events when they are finally realized.

What role does the community play in Cuba during the reunions of emigrants with their families?

The community in Cuba often actively participates in reunions, organizing celebrations and warmly welcoming those who return. This participation reinforces community ties and highlights the importance of solidarity and mutual support during emotionally charged moments.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.