Cannon Shot Ceremony & Musical Experience

by coach & on foot

This evening experience will allow you to witness the nightly Ceremony of the Cannon Shot, as well as visit the Salon del Bolero for some live music.

Departing from the port, you will transfer to the Fortress of San Carlos de la Cabana, located at the entrance of the Bay of Havana. The fortress was built in the 18th century to defend the city against enemy and pirate attacks. Located on a hill next to Morro Castle, the fort is the largest military building built by the Spanish in the Americas. Here, you will witness the Ceremony of the Cannon Shot, conducted every evening as the time approaches 2100h. Today, the ceremony is a tourist spectacle, but in the past, it was an official method to warn city residents and visitors of impending attacks on Havana.

Your journey then continues to Cultural Complex Dos Gardenias, located in a central avenue in the residential area of Playa. You will visit the Salon del Bolero, where you will be entertained by a local artist with some Bolero music. Bolero is a genre of music that has its origins in Santiago de Cuba. In the late 19th century, Afro-Cuban troubadours, carrying their guitars, brought romantic songs to Havana. Boleros are full of emotion, often associated with romance, love lost, and sadness. Included in your visit is a glass of rum and a soft drink.

Following this, you will rejoin your coach for the short transfer back to the port.