Cuba, an island pulsating with musical energy and history, hosts some of the most vibrant and culturally rich music festivals in the world. Our curated music festivals in Cuba offer an immersive experience into the island’s musical soul, showcasing a diverse tapestry of sounds that range from traditional Son Cubano and Afro-Cuban rhythms to contemporary jazz and salsa.

Each festival is a deep dive into the essence of Cuban music, celebrating its global influence and the local musicians who carry forward their rich traditions. Attendees are not just spectators but become part of a communal celebration of music, dance, and cultural exchange. From the internationally acclaimed Havana Jazz Festival to the rhythmic beats of the Percussion Festival, each event provides a unique window into the heart of Cuba’s musical heritage.

Our music festivals are carefully designed to offer intimate encounters with music, where world-renowned musicians and local legends perform in settings that enhance the connection between the artist and the audience. Beyond the performances, our festivals offer workshops, cultural tours, and discussions that deepen the understanding and appreciation of Cuban music and its roots.

Join us as we explore the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, venture into the vibrant nightlife of Santiago, or relax on the pristine beaches of Varadero, all while being serenaded by the best music Cuba has to offer. Whether you are a die-hard music aficionado or a curious traveler looking to experience the authentic rhythm of Cuba, our music festivals promise unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to the island’s cultural heartbeat.

Experience the magic of Cuban music festivals with us and let the rhythms of Cuba move you.

Tag Archive for: Music Festivals in Cuba

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The Varadero Josone Music Festival is back this Summer 2024

This August 2024, the Varadero Josone Music Festival returns, offering a standout lineup of Cuban and international musicians. Havana Music Tours is pleased to provide an exclusive tour package tailored for enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive festival experience. Detailed information about our offerings is available on our tour page.

Diverse Musical Lineup

This year, the festival lineup at Josone Park is particularly exciting, featuring a variety of music styles that showcase the depth of Cuban music heritage. From the captivating beats of rumba to the smooth flow of jazz and the melodic strains of son, the festival offers something for every listener.

Notable artists like Issac Delgado, Sintesis, and Real Project are set to perform alongside other celebrated musicians such as Raul Paz, Formell y Los Van Van, Alain Perez y la Orquesta, Maykel Blanco y su Salsa Mayor, and Wampi. Each artist brings a unique flavor to the stage, promising authentic and engaging performances.

Venue Highlights

Josone Music Festival 2

Josone Park, the festival’s sole venue in Varadero, features two stages that cater to a full spectrum of musical performances. The main stage, located in the heart of the park, is where the headline acts bring their larger-than-life performances.

For those looking for a closer, more personal musical encounter, the second stage by the lake offers a smaller, more intimate setting. As you explore the festival, youโ€™ll also encounter a variety of food and beverage vendors offering traditional Cuban fare, enhancing your experience with local flavors as you take in the music.

Curated Nightly Concerts

Under the direction of Issac Delgado, the nightly concerts at Josone Park feature a thoughtfully arranged lineup that spans Cuban genres from rumba to jazz and son. This programming not only showcases the diverse talents of the performers but also highlights the cultural influences that shape their music, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of each genre’s roots and evolution.

Tour Package Details

Our comprehensive tour packages cover all aspects of your festival journey. We provide accommodations, transport, reserved concert seating, and exclusive Cuba cultural tours. These packages are crafted to enhance your experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the music and atmosphere of the festival.

Pre-Festival Preparation

varadero josone music festival banner 1

To get ready for the festival, visit our Spotify playlist, which features a selection of tracks from this yearโ€™s artists. This playlist serves as an introduction to the diverse musical styles you will encounter at the event.

For more detailed information about what to expect and how to prepare for the festival, please visit our tour page.

Join us at Josone Park for the 2024 Varadero Josone Music Festival. Havana Music Tours is here to guide you through an experience where every note plays a part in the bigger story of Cuban music. We look forward to sharing this special occasion with you.

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Award-Winning Cuba Tours: Havana Music Tours Earns 2024 Tripadvisor Honor

We’re beyond excited to share that Havana Music Tours has been honored to be the Tripadvisor award-winning Cuba Tour for 2024. This is our second win in a row following last year’s recognition in 2023. This award means the world to us, and we owe it all to the fantastic feedback from our guests who have experienced Cuba’s rich musical landscape through our Cuba Cultural Tours.

Why Choose Havana Music Tours?

As musicians and passionate advocates of Cuban culture, we strive to offer tours that go beyond the ordinary. Hereโ€™s what sets us apart:

1. Genuine Cultural Connections

Our tours are crafted to give you a real sense of Cubaโ€™s music, traditions, and daily life. We introduce you to local musicians, artists, and families who share their stories and talents, providing an authentic experience.

2. Passionate Local Guides

Our guides arenโ€™t just knowledgeable โ€“ they live and breathe Cuban culture. Their enthusiasm and personal stories add a unique touch, making your journey through Cuba both informative and heartfelt.

3. Special Access to Music and Events

With our deep connections in the Cuban music scene, we offer access to exclusive events and venues. Imagine private jam sessions, impromptu street performances, and behind-the-scenes looks at renowned music festivals.

4. Personalized Experiences

We believe every traveler has their own interests. Thatโ€™s why we offer customized itineraries, ensuring your tour reflects your passions, whether itโ€™s music, history, or cuisine. Tell us what you love, and weโ€™ll tailor the perfect experience for you.

5. Stress-Free Travel

We handle the logistics so you can focus on the experience. From transportation to accommodations, weโ€™ve got it covered. Your only job is to enjoy and soak in the culture.

Hear From Our Travelers

Our guests’ stories speak volumes. Here are a few highlights from our Tripadvisor reviews:

James K. – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

โ€œI just came back from the VIP Music Tour. Absolutely fantastic trip! Every aspect exceeded expectations. I am totally hooked now on the music scene in Havana and will definitely be going again with Havana Music Tours.โ€

Javier – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

“Absolutely fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime custom-built musical and cultural tour around Havana!”

Stefan – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

“It’s very easy to recommend any tour with Chaz and Yami. Period. The experience with Havana Music Tours was life-changing!

Judy – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

“It was an uplifting, music and art-filled, educational, delicious, and deeply insightful immersion into the musical culture of Cuba and its’ historical roots.”

Christopher – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

“We had been to the jazz festival in 2015 with Blue Note and had a great time, but Havana Music Tours blew that experience out of the water! ”

Read more reviews on TripAdvisor. Click Here.

Explore Our Cuba Cultural Tours

We offer a range of Cuba Tours that cater to various interests. Here are some highlights:

  • VIP Music Tour (February/April 2025): Enjoy the best of Cuban music with VIP access to concerts, private jam sessions with top musicians, and guided tours of Havana’s musical hotspots.

To explore more of our Cuba Cultural Tours, visit Music Tours of Cuba.

Join Us

Being awarded the Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award for 2024 is a testament to our dedication to providing exceptional cultural experiences. We invite you to join us on a tour and see for yourself what makes Cubaโ€™s music and culture so special.

Thank you to all our wonderful clients for your support and for sharing your experiences. We canโ€™t wait to welcome you on your next adventure with Havana Music Tours.

Tripadvisor Award-Winning Cuba Tours 2024: Havana Music Tours

Havana Music Tours – Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award 2023-2024

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Cuba: Celebrated as the Caribbean’s Cultural Hub for 2024

We are thrilled to announce that the World Travel Awards have named Cuba Caribbean’s Leading Cultural Destination 2024. This prestigious recognition highlights Cuba’s unique contributions to cultural heritage and the arts, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural fabric of the Caribbean.

Celebrating Cuban Culture

For the third consecutive year, Cuba has been awarded this title, standing out among other Caribbean destinations like Barbados, Jamaica, Martinique, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad and Tobago. This consistent recognition underscores Cuba’s dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage.

As a musician and cultural enthusiast, we find this accolade especially meaningful. The streets of Cuba are filled with music, from the timeless sounds of son and jazz to the lively beats of rumba and timba. Music is a constant presence in Cuban life, creating an inviting and inspiring dynamic atmosphere.

A Musical Journey Through Cuba

Cuba’s cultural allure is deeply connected to its music. Havana, the capital city, is a hub for live performances, ranging from intimate jazz clubs to grand theaters. One of the most notable events is the Havana Jazz Festival, which draws music lovers from around the world. This festival is a unique opportunity to see performances by both legendary Cuban musicians and international artists.

Trinidad, another gem of Cuban heritage, offers a different but equally rich musical experience. The town’s historic ambiance provides a stunning backdrop for spontaneous street performances, a regular feature of its cultural life. The town’s cobbled streets and colonial architecture create an enchanting environment for enjoying traditional Cuban music.

Architectural and Artistic Treasures

Cuba’s cultural heritage extends beyond music. The island is home to architectural wonders such as the Malecรณn, a broad esplanade in Havana that stretches along the coast, offering breathtaking views and a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Another notable landmark is the Plaza Vieja in Havana, a vibrant square surrounded by restored colonial buildings, galleries, and cafes.

The visual arts in Cuba are just as dynamic as its music. From street murals to contemporary art galleries, Cuban art captures the spirit and creativity of the island. The works of Cuban artists offer a unique perspective on the country’s culture and history, making the arts scene an essential part of any visit to Cuba.

Festivals and Cultural Events

Festivals are a significant part of Cuba’s cultural identity. Events like the Havana Jazz Festival, the International Ballet Festival of Havana, and the Festival del Caribe in Santiago de Cuba showcase the island’s artistic diversity. These festivals provide a platform for both established and emerging artists, fostering cultural exchange and enhancing Cuba’s reputation as a cultural destination.

Why this Award Matters

The recognition by the World Travel Awards (Cuba Caribbean’s Leading Cultural Destination 2024) is not just a testament to Cuba’s cultural wealth but also an invitation to the world to experience it firsthand. For musicians, artists, and cultural enthusiasts, Cuba offers an environment rich in history and creativity.

Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Havana, attending a local rumba session, or experiencing the Havana Jazz Festival, Cuba’s cultural scene is a vibrant and authentic expression of its heritage.

Visit Havana Music Tours for more insights into Cuba’s cultural treasures and to plan your Cuba Tours. Let’s explore the rich cultural heritage of Cuba together, one note at a time.

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Why the Havana Jazz Festival Should Be on Your Bucket List

If you love music or enjoy exploring unique cultural events, the Havana Jazz Festival is a must-visit. Held annually in Cuba’s lively capital, this festival truly celebrates jazz, culture, and the enchanting spirit of Havana. Hereโ€™s why this remarkable event deserves a spot on your travel plans.

1. A Rich Musical Heritage

Cuba’s musical roots run deep, and the Internationa Jazz Plaza Festival in Havana is a shining example of this rich history. The festival combines traditional Cuban sounds and contemporary jazz, offering an unparalleled auditory experience. Imagine swaying to the beats of Afro-Cuban rhythms one moment and getting lost in the soulful melodies of modern jazz fusion the next, all performed by some of the most gifted musicians worldwide.

2. World-Class Performances at the International Jazz Plaza Festival

This festival draws top-notch talent from across the globe. Past festivals have seen performances by legends like Chucho Valdรฉs, David Weckl, and Arturo Oโ€™Farrill, alongside contemporary stars such as Snarky Puppy, Aaron Goldberg, and Emmet Cohen. The lineup also includes prominent Cuban artists like Roberto Fonseca, whose charismatic blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz brings an electrifying energy to the stage.

3. Diverse Venues and Experiences in Havana

The festival is held across multiple iconic venues in Havana, including the Teatro Nacional, Fabrica de Arte Cubano, and the historic Casa de la Cultura. Each venue offers a unique ambiance, from large theaters’ grandeur to small clubs’ intimate settings. The festival also includes workshops, jam sessions, and the International Jazz Colloquium, where scholars and musicians discuss the impact of jazz on society.

live stage outdoor show at havana jazz festival casa de la cultura

Havana Jazz Plaza at Casa de la Cultura

4. A Cultural Immersion

Attending the Havana Jazz Festival is not just about the music; it’s an opportunity to dive deep into Cuban culture. Enjoy walking tours that explore the roots of Afro-Cuban music, visit local farms, and savor authentic Cuban cuisine at top-rated paladares (private restaurants). Each day is packed with activities that highlight Havana’s culture and history.

5. Exclusive Havana Jazz Festival Access and VIP Treatment with Havana Music Tours

Booking a curated tour with Havana Music Tours ensures you get VIP access to the best events and prime seating at concerts. These tours often include private dinners with live music, studio listening sessions, and dance or music lessons, providing an exclusive and immersive experience that goes beyond just attending concerts.

Havana Jazz Plaza Festival - Small Group Tours Avalaibility 10- Havana Music Tours

6. Support Local Artists in Havana

By attending the Havana Jazz Plaza Festival, youโ€™re also supporting the local music scene. The festival offers a platform for Cuban musicians to showcase their talents to an international audience, helping to preserve and promote Cubaโ€™s rich musical traditions. Your presence contributes to the growth and recognition of these incredible artists.

7. Create Unforgettable Memories

The experiences you’ll have at the Havana Jazz Plaza Festival will stay with you long after the final note has been played. The magic of live jazz in the enchanting setting of Havana is something truly special. It’s a chance to escape the ordinary and indulge in a celebration of music and culture that is both exhilarating and deeply satisfying.

Conclusion

The Havana Jazz Festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration for anyone who cherishes music and cultural experiences. With its blend of exceptional performances, deep-rooted heritage, and the captivating charm of Havana, it offers an enriching and unforgettable experience. So, make plans to attend the Havana Jazz Festival and prepare for a journey filled with extraordinary music, cultural delights, and cherished memories.

For more detailed information and to book your tour, visit our tour pageโ€‹.

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Discover the Havana Salsa Festival 2024: A Guide to Your Next Unforgettable Experience

Welcoming You to a Celebration Like No Other:

Prepare to enter the lively and heartwarming atmosphere of Cuban music with the much-anticipated Havana Salsa Festival 2024. From the 20th to the 26th of February, the historic and breathtaking avenues of Havana will transform into a stage for a grand celebration that captures the essence of Cubaโ€™s rich musical heritage. This festival isn’t just an event; itโ€™s a profound expression of Cubaโ€™s spirited culture, offering a deep dive into the world of traditional Cuban music. It stands out for its homage to ‘son’ and ‘timba,’ ensuring a paradise for every salsa aficionado.

An Exquisite Line-Up Awaits You:

With a tradition of featuring Cuba’s most influential music orchestras, the festivalโ€™s 2023 roster, chosen by the loving votes of the audience, brought together stars such as Alexander Abreu y Havana Dโ€™Primera and the legendary Los Van Van orchestra. 2024 promises to elevate this legacy, setting the stage for nights filled with captivating performances that are the very heartbeat of Cuban music.

Confirmed performers for the event include renowned acts like Los Van Van, Monika Mesa, Mayito Rivera, Manolรญn el Mรฉdico de la Salsa, Manolito Simonet y su Trabuco, Alain Pรฉrez, Haila, Ivรกn el hijo de Teresa, David Calzado y su Charanga Habanera, and many others. Dance classes will be led by famous instructors such as Maykel Fonts, Yanet Fuentes, Fredy Clan, and Jennyselt Galata. The festival will also feature prominent international DJs, DJ Massimo Roger Greco and DJ El Ratรณn Rabioso, to celebrate Cuban music further.

The Exclusive Havana Music Tour Salsa Fest Experience:

Our VIP Havana Salsa Festival Tour is crafted with the utmost attention to detail, ensuring an experience that goes beyond attending the festivalโ€”it’s about living and breathing every vibrant moment. Here’s why our tour is an unparalleled choice:

  • Unique Musical Insights: Guided by a team of passionate musicians and musicologists, we offer exclusive experiences that offer a deeper understanding of Cuban music, from intimate live studio sessions to being front and center at mesmerizing folkloric performances.
  • Cultural Immersion at Its Finest: Our tour extends beyond music, encompassing salsa dance lessons in the heart of Havana, engaging walking tours, and a journey through Cuba’s best culinary offerings. Experience dining at renowned spots like Atelierband El Del Frente, where the essence of Cuban cuisine comes to life.
  • Unmatched Comfort and Style: We provide a selection of accommodations, from nice villas to deluxe hotels, ensuring your stay is both comfortable and memorable.
  • Personalized Attention: With bilingual musicians and tour guides from both Cuba and the U.S., we guarantee an experience thatโ€™s genuine, enriching, and attentive to every detail.

2 - Havana Salsa Festival Photos - Havana Music Tours

The Adventure of a Lifetime Awaits You:

The Havana Salsa Festival Tour 2024 extends an exclusive invitation to discover Cuba in its most genuine and musically enriched form. From the thrilling beats of salsa to the warm embrace of Cuban hospitality, this tour is set to be an unforgettable journey. With the festival just around the corner, thereโ€™s still time to secure your spot in this extraordinary celebration of music and culture. Book now, and let the adventure begin. Click here for more info.

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Cuba’s Vinyl Vibes: Havana Music Tour feat. Havana RPM 2024

Tour Release

Explore the Heartbeat of Cuba: Havana Music & Cultural Tour feat. Havana RPM Vinyl Music Festival 2024

Welcome to a musical journey like no other, set in the vibrant streets of Havana, Cuba. This November 2024, we invite you to join us for the Havana Music & Cultural Tour, a unique blend of rhythm, culture, and the joy of vinyl music. The inaugural Havana RPM Vinyl Music Festival is highlighting our journey, proudly presented by Guampara Music, Cuba’s pioneering independent record label.

A Tour Through Havanaโ€™s Musical Soul

The Havana Music & Cultural Tour is your gateway to the soul of Cuban music and culture.

Stroll Through Historic Havana

Take a leisurely walk through Old Havana, where history and artistry meet. Engage with local artists, discover hidden craft stores, and learn about the musical evolution that has shaped Cuba.

Taste the Authentic Flavors of Cuba

Indulge in the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine at some of the cityโ€™s finest paladares. Enjoy moments of culinary delight, and share stories and laughter with fellow travelers.

Move to the Rhythms of Cuba

Whether youโ€™re a dance enthusiast or just looking to enjoy the music, there are plenty of opportunities to move to the rhythms of Cuban music and feel the joy it brings.

A Celebration of Vinyl: Havana RPM Festival

The Havana RPM Vinyl Music Festival stands out as a heartfelt tribute to the timeless allure of vinyl. Over the course of two days, the festival gathers a community of vinyl collectors, music enthusiasts, and those curious about the world of records.

Engaging Conversations and Insightful Discussions

Join us for thought-provoking discussions on the evolution of discography in Cuba, the unique role of vinyl in DJ culture, and the empowering connection between women and vinyl. Gain valuable insights from speakers like Leydi Marrero and Rafael Valdivia, who bring their passion and knowledge to the forefront.

guampara music building - Havana RPM Vinyl festival 2023 511 - Art Exhibition

Art, Vinyl, and Everything In-Between

Wander through captivating exhibitions featuring sound-inspired posters by Pepe Menรฉndez, and explore a marketplace brimming with vinyl, equipment, accessories, and crafts. This is your chance to find that rare gem of a record or appreciate the intersection of visual art and music.

 

Live Music That Resonates

Feel the energy as the festival stages come to life with Sunset Shows and Main Shows at Stage 45RPM and Stage 33RPM. Groove to the beats of International and National DJs and experience the vibrant performances of invited bands.

Be Part of Something Special

If you love music, are curious about vinyl, and desire to experience the warmth of Cuban culture, the CUBA CULTURAL TOUR FEATURING HAVANA RPM MUSIC FESTIVAL 2024, November 27th โ€“ December 3rd, 2024, is for you. Join us for this special journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.

For booking andย more information, please visit our tour page.

Havana RPM Vinyl Music Festival - Havana Music Tours Promo

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What is the Varadero Josone Music Festival: “Rumba, Jazz, Son”

What You Should Know About the Varadero Josone Music Festival? + Bonus Playlist

Discover the Varadero Josone Music Festival: “Rumba, Jazz, Son,” an epic musical journey that promises to transport you to the heart of Cuban music. Set in the stunning Josone Park, near the pristine beaches of Varadero, this festival guarantees an unforgettable experience. This blog post will tell you everything you need to know about this sensational event.

Experiencing the vibrant Cuban music scene firsthand.

This highly anticipated event usually features an impressive lineup of world-class performers, including Alexander Abreu y Havana D’ Primera, Isaac Delgado y su Orquesta, and Alain Pรฉrez y La Orquesta, among others. From soulful melodies to irresistible beats, this festival promises to deliver an unforgettable musical experience showcasing the best of Cuban music, culture, and talent.ย 

A Blend of Musical Genres

Varadero Josone Music Festival showcases the lively pulse of Cuban music, from rumba to jazz and son. One of the most exciting aspects of the Varadero Josone Music Festival is the fusion of sounds that mesmerizes audiences. The festival invites artists worldwide to collaborate with Cuban musicians, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. From the infectious energy of rumba to the improvisational brilliance of jazz and the timeless allure of son, the festival celebrates the universal language of music.

Experience the Beauty and Culture of Cuba

The festival not only presents an opportunity to indulge in music but also provides a chance to submerge oneself in Cuba’s breathtaking splendor and opulent heritage. Varadero’s pristine beaches, adorned with soft, white sand and glistening turquoise waters, create a tropical haven that visitors will undoubtedly find arduous to leave.ย 

What to Expect at Varadero Josone Music Festival 2023

The Third Varadero Josone Music Festival is all set to take place from August 21st to 27th. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with a diverse lineup of over 20 invited groups from around the world, including Spain, Puerto Rico, Mexico, the United States, Venezuela, and various provinces in Cuba. The festival’s expansion to the city of Matanzas brings new dimensions to the experience, with performances at the iconic Teatro Sauto, a National Monument.

Prepare to be awed by the diverse range of performances at the upcoming festival. The selection has been thoughtfully chosen to satisfy various preferences. The Varadero Josone Music Festival 2023 is set to be an exultant commemoration of EGREM’s 60th anniversary and Matanzas’ 330-year landmark, providing an opulent and varied cultural affair for all participants. Every attendee can look forward to a truly enriching and engaging experience filled with captivating music and diverse artistic expressions.

Conclusion

The Varadero Josone Music Festival is a must-attend event for music enthusiasts. From the captivating performances of acclaimed Cuban artists to the blend of musical genres, the festival guarantees a one-of-a-kind and memorable experience. So pack your bags and let the Varadero Josone Music Festival transport you to a world of melody, passion, and cultural richness. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event โ€“ book your trip now!

More Tour Information: Varadero Josone Music Festival Tour 2023ย 

Bonus Playlist Varadero Josone Music Festival 2023 – Playlist by Havana Music Tours

To get you in the mood for the Varadero Josone Music Festival, we’ve curated a special playlist featuring some of the best tracks from the festival’s lineup. From classic Cuban rhythms to contemporary jazz fusion, this playlist will give you a taste of the incredible musical journey that awaits you at the festival. So grab your headphones and get ready to groove to the infectious beats of Cuba! Check out the playlist on Havana Music Tours Spotify profile now.

Varadero Josone Music Festival 2023 – Playlist by Havana Music Tours

 

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