Lis Cuesta Peraza, the spouse of Cuba's ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel and known as the "non-first lady of Cuba," took part in the festivities leading up to the Chinese New Year in Havana. This event was shared via a video by the Chinese embassy in Cuba. The celebration, held this past Saturday at the iconic Paseo del Prado, was called the First Chinese New Year Fair and was attended by China’s ambassador to Cuba, Hua Xin.
During the fair, Ambassador Xin emphasized the celebrations of the Year of the Serpent with hopes for increased development and cooperation between China and Cuba. Attendees were treated to traditional Chinese displays, including the Dragon Dance performed by students from the Cuban School of Wushu and Qigong, martial arts demonstrations, calligraphy exhibitions, and tastings of traditional Chinese cuisine. According to Xinhua in Spanish, the event also featured handcrafted goods and souvenirs showcasing China's rich cultural heritage.
Although Cuban state media did not mention Lis Cuesta's presence at the event, her participation underscores the Cuban government's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with China, a key ally for the regime.
Ambassador Xin reminded attendees that starting in 2023, the Spring Festival was officially recognized as a holiday by the United Nations calendar, and by 2024, it was listed by UNESCO on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, as noted by Cuba's state agency Prensa Latina. He also highlighted that in 2025, the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Cuba will be celebrated, providing an opportunity to further enhance cooperation and friendship between the two nations.
The Chinese New Year 2025: Year of the Wood Snake
The Lunar New Year of 2025, beginning on January 29, marks the start of the Year of the Wood Snake in the Chinese zodiac calendar. Known as the Spring Festival, this is a significant event in Chinese culture and in many Asian communities worldwide. The celebrations, spanning 15 days, blend ancient traditions with wishes for prosperity, luck, and harmony for the upcoming year.
Symbolism of the Snake in the Chinese Zodiac
The Snake, the sixth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac, represents wisdom, intuition, elegance, and transformation. It is associated with individuals who are shrewd and contemplative, valuing introspection and careful planning. The Wood element, governing the year 2025, brings qualities such as creativity, empathy, and personal growth, suggesting a period of renewal and achievement for those who can adapt to changes. This year is seen as a perfect time for learning, innovation, and strengthening personal relationships.
Chinese New Year Traditions
Preparing the home: Before the year begins, families clean their homes to clear away accumulated bad luck and decorate with red and gold ornaments symbolizing fortune and happiness.
Family dinner: New Year's Eve is a time for family gatherings, featuring a special meal that includes traditional dishes like fish (symbolizing 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 Snake and Dragon dances, accompanied by drums and firecrackers, are customary to ward off evil spirits and welcome the new year.
Lantern Festival: The festivities conclude with a display of lights and decorated lanterns, symbolizing the end of the festive cycle.
Key Aspects of the Chinese New Year in Cuba
What is the significance of the Year of the Wood Snake?
The Year of the Wood Snake symbolizes wisdom, intuition, and transformation. It brings qualities like creativity and empathy, suggesting a period of renewal and achievement for those who adapt well to changes.
How does Cuba celebrate the Chinese New Year?
Cuba celebrates the Chinese New Year with events like the Chinese New Year Fair, featuring traditional dances, martial arts demonstrations, cultural exhibitions, and tastings of Chinese cuisine.
What role does Lis Cuesta play in Cuba's relations with China?
Lis Cuesta's participation in events like the Chinese New Year Fair highlights the Cuban government's commitment to enhancing its bilateral relations with China, a key ally for the regime.