Revolution Anniversary in Cuba
Observed on the 25th of July every year, the Revolutionary Anniversary is part of a 3-day holiday in Cuba. Also known as the “Day Before the Assault on Moncada Garrison,” this holiday is celebrated along with the Day of the National Rebellion on July 26th and the Day After the Assault on Moncada Garrison.
Cuba (National holiday)This triumvirate of national holidays commemorates the events of 1953 when Fidel Castro launched an assault on the Moncada army garrison in Santiago de Cuba. This attack was the catalyst that led the revolutionary movement in Cuba to oust Fulgencio Batista and eventually install Castro as the dictator of Cuba.
The History of Revolution Anniversary in Cuba
On July 25th, 1953, Fidel Castro devised the plan that would take place the following day. This plan involved 160 men attacking the Moncada army garrison in Santiago de Cuba. The attack was supposed to arm the rebels and spark the revolution that would bring down Batista. Although it failed as a military operation, it ultimately achieved its goal of sparking the revolution that would eventually oust Batista.
During the assault on the garrison, some of Castro’s men were killed, and other rebels were later executed. Castro and some of his close advisors were given long prison sentences. However, he would only end up serving 22 months of that sentence due to amnesty given to political prisoners. On January 12, 1959, Fulgencio Batista was removed from power. The date of the attack was adopted as the name for the entire revolutionary movement: Movimiento 26 de Julio.
Observing Revolution Anniversary in Cuba
This day, along with the following two days, is a public holiday. That makes it a day off for the general population, and most schools and businesses are closed. This collection of holidays features concerts all around Cuba, military parades, and fireworks. It’s also a day for people to enjoy fine Cuban dishes such as whole roasted pigs, black beans and rice, fried plantains, and yuca con mojo.
Cuba (National holiday)
