Havana Celebration
(Photo : pxhere)

Havana's 500th anniversary celebration started in November and people are still in a joyful mood until now. Here's how tourists can join in on the fun.

Havana, the capital of Cuba, was founded 500 years ago. The city has seen a colorful history, the good and bad, but still stands proud today. The Habaneros have a lot of reasons to celebrate. For tourists who want to take part in the local parties, the Lonely Planet suggests some activities that are worth exploring.

The Ceiba tree is popular in the area. Every November 16, people gather around the tree that is located in front of El Templete. When midnight comes, people walk counterclockwise three times around the Ceiba tree and make a wish. They leave some offerings behind such as coins or flowers. Regardless if this is true or not, it is a fun activity especially for those living abroad.

Taking part in the Calle Obispo festival should not be missed. There are bands playing and colorful costumes worn by people on stilts as they mimic fairies, pirates and other magical creatures. 

Things have not always been sunny in Havana. The Cuba-U.S. ties have improved a lot in recent years but concerns are still there. Despite the tensions, the Cubans still opt to celebrate Havana's 500th anniversary. After all, this milestone is a once in a lifetime experience. 

President Miguel Diaz-Canel believes the key to the city's longevity is its resilient people. "Havana, a city of science, dance, cinema, literature, sporting events and an example of resistance in the face of neoliberalism, is also the city of dignity, the bastion of resistance against the unjust (U.S.) blockade," he added in a report from CTV News. 

Slowly but surely, Havana is opening up to the world and the world is welcoming its long lost brother. According to Euronews, King Felipe of Spain went to Havana to see Cuba's leader Raul Castro, the first time a Spain monarch has ever step foot in the country.

In October, the U.S. imposed a travel ban to all parts of Cuba except for Havana. This is after leader Raul Castro expressed support to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The State Department also banned the president and his family from entering the U.S. territory, DW reports. All Venezuelans or foreigners who express support to Maduro is also banned from entering the U.S.

Major airlines such as JetBlue and American Airlines are given 45 days to sort things out. Among those affected destinations to and from are Camagüey, Holguín, and Santa Clara. U.S. President Donald Trump has also imposed a ban on American travelers from going to Cuba. This includes recreational and educational travel.

Cuba's foreign relationship is always tested and never smooth sailing. The country has been through enough difficulties and it has survived countless trade and travel bans. Right now, the Habaneros have a reason to celebrate. They will think of their problems after the festivities. And as usual, amid the tensions and problems, life goes on for most of them.