Remedios Awaits Its 510th Anniversary
By Dalia Reyes Perera and Beatriz Corcho, Radio Habana Cuba correspondent in Villa Clara
As the 510th anniversary of San Juan de los Remedios approaches on June 24, both locals and visitors arrive in this land of legends and parrandas to celebrate, inspired by the deep sense of identity and belonging that characterizes the people of Remedios.
One of the most emotional moments of the celebration was the presentation of the "510th Anniversary Distinction" to several individuals who have made an impact on Cuba's Eighth Villa. Also significant were the inaugurations of public works completed this year to benefit the population in honor of the anniversary.
A cultural gala featuring local and provincial talent will take place, culminating in memorable moments such as fireworks and dramatizations of well-known local legends, like the capture of the *güije*, a character born from popular folklore, and the burning of ceremonial pyres.
Other planned cultural and recreational activities include a literary gathering called "United by Water," performances by the local Guiñol Theater Group in the Central Plaza, and the launch of themed rum labels at the City House. Additional events include artistic gatherings, a cultural fashion show, "Platform 510" with dance music, and personal exhibitions.
New this year is a forum for exchanging experiences between state and non-state sector businesses. The forum aims to boost the visibility of Remedios’ products and services and foster connections among economic actors, institutions, and organizations.
The event welcomed Major General Rogelio Acevedo, a Remedios native who fought alongside Che Guevara in the Rebel Army and played a prominent role in the liberation movement that led to the triumph of the Cuban Revolution on January 1, 1959.
Another goal of the forum was to promote collaboration among micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises; local development projects; and self-employed workers. Lilian Rojas Barrios, president of the Municipal Assembly of People's Power, described the initiative as a fertile seed for building alliances and finding concrete solutions for the well-being of the people.
The program featured initiatives to empower the business community, including a gathering of women entrepreneurs that created a collaborative space for women leading projects across several municipalities in Villa Clara. Workshops were held to provide women in this sector with training.
An afternoon of rumba celebrated the city’s rich cultural spirit through joyful, drum-driven dance music.
Other commemorative events included the literary circle "Child of the Americas" and an afternoon of danzón at the House of Culture.
After more than five centuries, Remedios remains a land of dreams, parrandas, identity, and legend.
