Attendees enjoyed a special concert by award-winning pianist, composer, and educator Arturo O’Farrill, accompanied by dancer Isabella Vergara.

O’Farrill performed a selection of works that are an essential part of Cuba’s music. Several audiovisual materials were also shown, reflecting the patriotism and the Caribbean nation’s cultural and artistic richness.

Participants also enjoyed a painting exhibition by Cuban artist Yosvany Martinez, whose works highlight the veneration of nature, architecture, and art.

Before welcoming attendees, Ambassador Yuri Gala, Deputy Permanent Representative of Cuba to the United Nations, highlighted the importance of this patriotic commemoration, which invites us to reflect on the values, identity, and art that define the Cuban nation.

The diplomat remembered that Cuban Culture Day was dedicated this 2025 to the program for the 100th birthday of the Historic Leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro (August 13, 2026), and the 95th birthday of Armando Hart, two essential figures in the construction of cultural thought in Cuba.

Cuban Culture Day was established on August 22, 1980, in commemoration of October 20, 1968, the date on which the march that would become the National Anthem of the Caribbean country was sung for the first time.

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