Havana Jazz Fest
Join us in Havana to attend the annual 2027 International Jazz Festival while also learning about Afro-Cuban dance. Started in 1978, the Havana Jazz Festival attracts well-known acts from around the world. With an All Access Jazz Festival Pass, see acclaimed acts perform on an international stage while also getting up close and personal with master Cuban musicians and dancers. Attend and Afro-Cuban dance performance also learning about the roots of this treasured art form and how it developed on the island. You will have the opportunity to engage with musicians, dance instructors and students during a time when the city will transform itself into a giant music festival. Cuba reveres its artists and unique culture and music oozes out from every building window in this electric city. This trip is for those who have always wanted to learn about music and dance as well as afficianados and performers.
This year's program dates: January 24th, 2027 - February 1st, 2027
to go on this trip!
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1 - Arrival in Havana
Arrive at José Martí International Airport. You will be met by Armando and Loraine, your
Cuban guide for the week, and driven by private coach to your B&B. After settling in, enjoy a
short walking tour of the Vedado neighborhood, followed by dinner. Depending on festival
scheduling, there may be optional shows this first night. (D)
Day 2 - Old Havana & Cuban Art
Breakfast is served each morning at our house. Today begins with an hour-long tour of
Havana in classic American cars, ending in Old Havana at the Museum of the Revolution.
Then a guided private tour at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes(Fine arts museum)
focusing on Cuban art. Lunch in Old Havana at a charming upstairs paladar. Afternoon
walking tour through historic plazas, galleries, and landmarks: Plaza de la Catedral, Calle
Obispo, Plaza Vieja, El Prado, artist studios. Finish at Almacenes de San José craft market, a
huge market located on a pier in Havana Harbor. Evening dinner and Jazz Festival
performance. (B,L)
Day 3 - Cuban Society, Education & History
Walk to our academic partner organization called CIPS for a presentation by a University of
Havana professor on life in Cuba today and the impact of the U.S. embargo and latest
blockade. Visit Plaza de la Revolució n and the José Martí Memorial. Lunch, then visit a local
elementary school. Evening free time, dinner, and a show. (B,L)
Day 4 - Decorative Arts & Cristó bal Coló n Cemetery
Visit a local produce market then a tour of the historic and monumental Cristó bal Coló n
Cemetery. Lunch then music venues in the Pabelló n de Cuba. Evening dinner and jazz music
concerts.(B,L)
Day 5 - Hemingway & Cojímar
Visit Hemingway’s home and museum, Finca Vigía. Lunch in the fishing village of Cojímar.
Free in the afternoon to explore on your own and dinner followed by evening music events.
(B,L)
Day 6 - Fusterlandia & Habana Compass Dance
Tour Fusterlandia, the large mosaic art installation by José Fuster. Lunch on-site. Afternoon
performance by Habana Compass Dance. Evening dinner, and Jazz Festival shows. (B,L)
Day 7 - Health Care, Urban Farming & Arts
Visit a community health center, then Organopó nico Alamar urban farm. Lunch at a
traditional country restaurant. Evening we visit the Fá brica de Arte Cubano to listen to
music and experience this arts and music hub. (B,L)
Day 8 - Havana Landmarks & Farewell Evening
Return to Old Havana, lunch, and visit the historic Hotel Nacional. Rest, then final evening of
music and festival closing events. (B,L)
Day 9 - Departure
Early breakfast and transfer to the airport for return flight to the U.S. (B)
Note: Activities may shift due to the fluid nature of travel in Cuba.
Transportation will be provided in the evening for several different musical events.
Breakfast and lunch included every day with a welcome dinner the first night.