The Pilgrimages Cannot Die in Holguin (+Photos)

“To the young people who have come from Cuba and around the world. I say that the Pilgrimages cannot die, nor can Fidel’s idea that culture is the first thing that must always be saved.” Expressed Alexis Triana, founder and honorary president of the May Pilgrimages, in Holguin.

The Pilgrimages, in their 33rd edition, were inaugurated today in the City of Parks. With their traditional parade in front of the La Periquera Provincial Museum. Which brought together children and young artists of dance, music, and theater. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Hermanos Saíz Association (AHS) and the cultural thought of Fidel Castro.

Alexis Triana, during his keynote address at the parade, expressed that the event is an intrinsic part of Holguin. A dream conceived more than 30 years ago that young people fought to realize despite the challenges. And that it reflects the face of the city. Celebrating Cuban culture in front of the balcony from which Fidel Castro first addressed the people of Holguin.

He congratulated the participants for carrying out such a festival despite energy limitations. For parading with the same joy and vibrancy as in previous years. Demonstrating to the world the strength of a celebration of young artists that has endured for decades.

Representatives of the AHS (Hermanos Saíz Association) and visitors from Mexico who came to the city for the festival participated in the celebration. As well as guest artists from other provinces and members of regional art schools, the National Wushu Academy, and researchers of Cuban cultural heritage.

The opening day will continue with the inauguration of the Memoria Nuestra (Our Memory) space. Which has become the backbone of the Festival, featuring the lecture “Stories of Alejandro” by journalist Katiuska Blanco, Fidel Castro’s biographer.

Likewise, the Babel space, dedicated to the visual arts, will inaugurate the collective exhibition “Cotton Island.” Featuring Daniela Hernández Cruz, Yojany González Martínez, Marcos Quiñones, and other young artists from Holguin. In the Main Hall of the Holguin Provincial Center for Visual Arts.

Moreover the day will conclude with the opening of the Jazz en Romerías (Jazz in Pilgrimages) space. Presented by the Eliot and Arritmia Quintet project. A jam session with the group Ron con Cola on the AHS main stage in Plaza de la Marqueta. And the inauguration of Electroromerías (Electromerías) at the Caligari Gallery.

The 33rd edition of the Romerías de Mayo (May Pilgrimages) takes place in Holgin until the 8^th. During which the City of Parks becomes the world capital of young art.