Cuba Month-by-Month: Events, Weather & Travel Tips

January

Weather: Dry and mild
Events:
-Havana Jazz Festival: A week-long celebration featuring international jazz artists and local talent across various venues in Havana.
Pros: Ideal weather for exploring cities and beaches.
Cons: Peak tourist season; accommodations may be pricier and require early booking.

February

Weather: Warm and dry.
Events:
-Habanos Cigar Festival: A must-attend for cigar aficionados, featuring factory tours, tastings, and seminars.
-International Salsa Festival: Dance enthusiasts can enjoy performances and workshops in Havana.
-Camagüey Culture Week: Celebrates the city’s heritage with art exhibitions, concerts, and literary events.
Pros: Vibrant cultural scene; excellent for music and dance lovers.
Cons: High demand for accommodations; book early.

March

Weather: Warm and pleasant.
Events:
-Fiesta del Tambor (Drum Festival): A celebration of percussion with performances and workshops.
-Pepe Sánchez Trova Festival: Honors traditional Cuban music with concerts and gatherings.
Pros: Ideal for music lovers; fewer tourists than peak months.
Cons: Some events may have limited seating; plan ahead.

April

Weather: Hotter with occasional rains.
Events:
-Bienal Internacional del Humor: A festival showcasing Cuban humor through art and performances.
-Semana de la Cultura Baracoense: Celebrates Baracoa’s culture with parades, culinary events, and crafts.
-Havana Biennial (biennial event): A major contemporary art exhibition attracting international artists.
Pros: Rich in cultural events; vibrant local participation.
Cons: Increasing heat; some events may be crowded.

May

Weather: Hot and humid; start of the rainy season.
Events:
-Romerías de Mayo: A cultural festival in Holguín featuring music, dance, and art.
Pros: Lush landscapes; fewer tourists.
Cons: Afternoon rains common; some outdoor events may be affected.

June

Weather: Hot and humid; rainy season continues.
Events:
-Festival del Caribe (Fiesta del Fuego): Begins late June in Santiago de Cuba, celebrating Caribbean culture with parades, music, and dance.
Pros: Authentic cultural experiences; lower travel costs.
Cons: High humidity; potential for tropical storms.

July

Weather: Very hot and humid; frequent rains.
Events:
-Santiago de Cuba Carnival: One of the island’s most vibrant festivals with colorful parades and music.
-Festival Nacional del Humor Aquelarre: A week-long comedy festival in Havana.
Pros: Immersive cultural experiences; lively atmosphere.
Cons: Extreme heat; accommodations may be limited due to local travel.

August

Weather: Hot, humid, and rainy; peak hurricane season begins.
Events:
-Fiesta de las Aguas: Celebrated in Baracoa with music, dance, and religious ceremonies.
-Festival Internacional Timbalaye: A rumba festival in Havana promoting Afro-Cuban culture.
Pros: Deep cultural immersion; fewer international tourists.
Cons: High risk of hurricanes; travel insurance recommended.

September

Weather: Hot and rainy; peak hurricane season.
Events:
-Fiesta de la Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre: Religious celebrations honoring Cuba’s patron saint.
Pros: Authentic local experiences; low tourist numbers.
Cons: Unpredictable weather; some events may be canceled.

October

Weather: Rainy with decreasing temperatures.
Events:
-Fiesta de la Cubanía: Celebrates Cuban culture in Bayamo with music, art, and literature.
-Festival de Bailador Rumbero: A rumba dance festival in Matanzas.
-Fiesta de la Cultura Iberoamericana: Held in Holguín, focusing on Ibero-American culture.
-International Theater Festival of Havana: Showcases theatrical performances from around the world.
Pros: Diverse cultural events; cooler weather.
Cons: Rain may affect outdoor activities.

November

Weather: Dry season begins; pleasant temperatures.
Events:
-Amigos de Partagás Festival: A gathering for cigar enthusiasts with tastings and factory tours.
-Marabana Marathon: Havana’s annual marathon attracting international runners.
Pros: Ideal weather; rich cultural experiences.
Cons: Events may require advance registration.

December

Weather: Cool and dry; festive atmosphere.
Events:
-International Artisan Fair (FIART): Showcases crafts from Cuban and international artists.
-Festival Internacional del Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano: Premier film festival highlighting Latin American cinema.
-Fiesta a la Guantanamera: Celebrates Guantánamo’s culture with music and dance.
-Parrandas de Remedios: Traditional Christmas festival with fireworks and parades.
Pros: Festive celebrations; excellent for art and film enthusiasts.
Cons: High tourist season; book accommodations early.

Note: Weather patterns and event dates can vary; it’s advisable to check specific event schedules and local weather forecasts when planning your trip.

Plan Your Perfect Cuban Adventure with Buen Sabor Tours

Whether you’re drawn to Cuba for its world-famous cigars, vibrant music festivals, breathtaking beaches, or rich cultural heritage, there’s a perfect time of year to match your travel style—and Buen Sabor Tours is here to make it unforgettable.
We don’t just take you to Cuba. We immerse you in its flavors, rhythms, and traditions. From behind-the-scenes access to cigar factories during the Habanos Festival to dance-filled nights at Santiago’s Carnaval, we offer custom tours that connect you with Cuba’s soul. Our expert guide, curated itineraries, and locally rooted partners ensure an experience that’s both authentic and seamless.
Why travel with Buen Sabor Tours?
-Expertly crafted cultural itineraries
-Exclusive access to events like Amigos de Partagás and FIART
-Personalized service tailored to your interests
-Responsible, ethical tourism that supports Cuban communities
-Deep local knowledge from a team that lives and breathes Cuba
Let us help you pick the perfect month to visit—whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply chasing the sun. We’ll take care of the logistics so you can soak up every minute of the magic.