CubaPLUS Magazine

December 24, an enduring tradition in Cuba

By: CubaPLUS Magazine
Dec 24, 2023
December 24, an enduring tradition in Cuba

Christmas Eve, December 24, is a date celebrated around the world by Christian tradition, since that day Jesus was born, the eve of Christmas and in Cuba it is also celebrated since time immemorial. However, over the years this celebration on the island has undergone some changes, Well, more than a Christian tradition, it has become a family custom.

So many Christians and those who are not, celebrate that day with a dinner, where relatives and even close friends gather. The tradition in the largest of the Antilles consists of a dinner with roast pork, congrí rice and black beans, vegetable salad and yucca (cassava) with its corresponding mojito. As desserts can be homemade sweets, including the exquisite guava casquitos or rice with milk, as well as Spanish nougat, highly desired by Cubans. All accompanied with its corresponding glass of wine.

On Christmas, December 25, the custom has always been to celebrate with a party, where family and friends get together to have a great time. Of course, there is also the Christmas tree, where the gifts are usually placed and they will be exchanged among all those present. According to history, on December 24 the rooster or shepherds' mass takes place, and people celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus. Many people wonder why the name Christmas Eve is mentioned. There are several origins of that name. However, the most accepted is because it was when Jesus was born, hence they consider it to have been a good night.

Anyway, Christians or not, since the arrival of the Spanish to America, the Good Night has been celebrated, hence the roots of that tradition will continue forever and ever. Congratulations to all!

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