The parrandera community throughout Cuba has come together in gestures of support and solidarity for the neighborhood of Los Chivos in Camajuaní, following the devastating fire that reduced their work space to ashes this Monday, where pyrotechnic and artistic elements were being prepared for the upcoming edition of the Villaclareñas Parrandas, declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2018.
The incident, caused by an explosion in a fireworks warehouse, rocked the municipality early in the morning, leaving a thick column of smoke visible from several kilometers away and affecting nearby homes. Although no fatalities were reported, several people were treated for mild asphyxia and nervous crises, according to official communicator Henry Omar Pérez.
While local authorities investigate the causes of the fire, the spirit of the Parrandas has resurged with strength in the form of mutual support and messages of encouragement from various corners of the country.
One of them was the San Salvador neighborhood of Remedios. In a post on Facebook, the group stated that the fire “should not be exploited for unfounded criticisms” and that the true essence of tradition lies not in competition, but in community.
"Faced with this adversity, a gesture has shone that embodies the true spirit of these festivities. [...] The support of San Salvador towards Los Chivos demonstrates that, above all, what prevails is the commitment to protect a cultural heritage that belongs to everyone," wrote the Remediano collective.
From the account Parrandas Centro Norte de Cuba, the reveler Rodney García Pérez shared an emotional message expressing gratitude for the concern shown by friends, neighbors, and communities throughout the country. He stated that 70% of the resources for Parranda 2026 were lost, including flammable materials that could have caused the explosion.
"Those of us with heart will be here today, tomorrow, and always, in good times and bad. And if there’s one thing we can be sure of, it’s that even if the ashes cover its walls, they will never erase 130 years of pure art, success, and talent. It will always be, is, and will be the master school of the Parranda," García stated.
The message, accompanied by images of the flames engulfing the ship, has been commented on by dozens of users who have expressed their support.
Also, from the north of Chambas, the group La Norte oficial El Gallo expressed solidarity with the revelers of Santa Teresa Chivos, deeply mourning the loss and highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of what has occurred.
"We know that behind every board, every detail, and every effort, there are stories, sacrifices, and love for our traditions. [...] This trial will serve to be reborn with greater strength and to demonstrate, once again, that the Parrandas are much more than what the fire can consume," they stated.
The message concludes with a phrase that has been echoed among the revelers: “Goats! The flames cannot overcome the tradition and the unity of those who love it.”
Los Chivos: a symbol of Camajuaní identity
The neighborhood Los Chivos, also known as Santa Teresa Chivos, is one of the two main protagonists of the Parrandas de Camajuaní, traditionally celebrated in March, alongside Sapo Fiado (San José). For over a century, its name has been synonymous with art, fire, and community.
There, generations of artisans and pyrotechnicians have built monumental floats, fireworks, and light shows that are a source of pride for all of Villa Clara. For many, Los Chivos represents the "master school of the parranda," a birthplace of creativity and a testament to popular passion.
The loss of their workplace is more than just material damage; it is also a blow to the cultural heart of Camajuaní.
Like other towns in Villa Clara such as Remedios, Zulueta, and Vueltas, Camajuaní preserves a centuries-old tradition that blends fireworks, music, monumental floats, lanterns, aerial displays, and popular satire. In this celebration, neighborhoods compete amicably for the glory of their presentations, showcasing a vibrant display of folk art that engages the entire community.
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