Over 400 international visitors and representatives of cultural groups nationwide inaugurated the event also known as the Fire Festival, with its 44th edition dedicated to the popular culture of Curaçao.

SANTIAGO DE CUBA – As a gift to this former colonial town nearing its 510th anniversary, the 44th Caribbean Festival commenced with a splendid gala at the Heredia Cultural Complex, featuring Cuban and Curaçao artists. This marks the third time the event honours the island nation.

The gala, attended by Santiago de Cuba’s principal political and governmental authorities, alongside representatives from Cuba’s Union of Writers and Artists (UNEAC), the Ministry of Culture, and the Casa del Caribe, showcased the finest traditions of our geographical region.

Subsequently, the Cimarrónica exhibition – featuring prints by Alberto Lescay alongside Cuban engraver Joaquín Bolívar and Curaçao sculptor Giovanni Abath – was inaugurated at the Casa del Caribe.

It was revealed that the Curaçao Pavilion at the «Fiesta del Fuego» will host exhibitions highlighting the island’s artists from previous editions and its gastronomy, with a special focus on fusion with Cuban cuisine.

Over 400 intellectuals and artists from the Dominican Republic, Bonaire, Mexico, the United States, Argentina, Colombia, and Spain are participating. Ten areas across the Hero City will host presentations and traditional parades.

Additional highlights include the Curaçao Gala (6 July at Heredia’s main hall); Platanal de Bartolo at Casa del Caribe; the Caribbean That Unites Us colloquium; and the newly established Haiti Pavilion.