As Christmas approaches in Cuba, the festive spirit is tinged with nostalgia and longing, particularly for those who remember the vibrant celebrations of the pre-Revolution era. Miriam, 85, recalls the joy of Christmas festivities before 1959, a time when the holiday was celebrated with enthusiasm. However, after Fidel Castro's rise to power, tensions with the Catholic Church led to a significant decline in Christmas celebrations, culminating in the suspension of the holiday in 1969, which lasted for over 25 years. It wasn't until Pope John Paul II's visit in 1998 that Christmas was reinstated as an official holiday in Cuba [e0225b11].
In 2024, the economic landscape in Cuba presents a stark contrast to the festive memories of the past. The average salary is now just 4,700 Cuban pesos (CUP), with the minimum wage set at 2,100 CUP. This economic reality has made it increasingly difficult for families to celebrate traditional Christmas festivities, as food prices have skyrocketed, further straining household budgets [e0225b11].
Many Cubans, like Isabel, find themselves dreaming of celebrating Christmas abroad, seeking a reprieve from the harsh economic conditions at home. Alejandro, another citizen, expresses a heartfelt wish for his daughter to experience a proper Christmas celebration in another country, highlighting the desire for better opportunities and a more fulfilling holiday experience [e0225b11].
The outlook for Cuba's economy in 2024 is grim, with projections indicating a contraction. This economic downturn is expected to exacerbate existing issues, leading to increased migration and social unrest as citizens seek better lives elsewhere [e0225b11]. As the holiday season unfolds, the juxtaposition of cherished Christmas traditions and the harsh realities of contemporary life in Cuba paints a poignant picture of a nation grappling with its past and present.