Cuba – Havana Jazz Festival

Experience Havana like never before at the world famous Havana jazz festival. In addition to private rooftop jazz performances and an all-access pass to the festival, you will get to experience the action firsthand with Discover Corps’ Founder, Andrew Motiwalla, at some of his favorite local spots (scroll down to learn more!).

To achieve our purpose in supporting the Cuban people, we’ll connect with a local music and arts center for children, learn about the island’s evolving culture, both in the alleyways of Havana and further afield in the stunning countryside of Viñales Valley.

The 2020 lineup has yet to be announced, but past performers have included popular artists such as Chucho Valdés, Daymé, Joe Lovano, Snarky Puppy, Charlie Haden, Roy Hargrove, and Telmary. Check back with us for updates!

You will have an all-access pass and guaranteed seating while attending the jazz festival, plus Discover Corps guests will be treated to a private rooftop jazz performance with cocktails before attending the opening ceremony. The jazz festival is held at night where you are free to roam about at your leisure, but you will find performers in every corner of the city this week. Walk through the streets of Havana and experience the sounds of jazz and salsa echo out of cafes and artwork adorns the century old buildings.

During the day, explore Hemingway’s former home, Finca Vigía, a Havana neighborhood Fusterlandia, and a visit Havana’s famous Museum of Fine Arts. You will also experience the talent of the Habana Compas dance troupe, meet the children of the music center Muraleando, and explore Old Havana – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your journey begins in Havana, the capital city of fascinating history and charming architecture. Havana will be your hub for all things jazz, as well your home for duration of your stay. Explore Fusterlandia, a neighborhood overtaken by the colorful art of José Fuster, one of the most celebrated artists in Cuba said to capture the true resilience and spirit of the Cuban people. You will also find yourself at Finca Vigia, or author Ernest Hemingway’s former home, before spending time at the local music and arts center Muraleando.

Beyond Havana and its surrounding neighborhoods, spend one day in the gorgeous Viñales Valley. Perhaps Cuba’s most picturesque spot, explore tobacco farms and meet with farmers to learn about their life and work.

For this customized jazz festival departure, you will be able to choose between two different lodging options. Opt for the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, which is considered a symbol of history, culture, and Cuban identity with 87 years of history and prestige. The Hotel Nacional de Cuba was declared a National Monument, and with its privileged location in the middle of Vedado, the center of Havana, it stands on a hill just a few meters from the sea, and offers a great view of the Havana Harbor; the seawall and the city. The Hotel stands out due to its refined elegance and its ancient splendor, which since 1930 has attracted a large number of personalities from the arts, science and politcs, such as British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, artists Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, Johnny Weismuller, Maria Félix, Jorge Negrete, and scientist Alexander Flemming.

If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in Cuba culture, opt to stay in casas particulares, or family owned bed & breakfasts. Families invest in making sure their houses are up to international quality standards, and they greet you with Cuban hospitality – but also give you the privacy and comfort you desire. While houses vary in style from eclectic to classical, they all provide a comfortable glimpse into Cuban life. Our portfolio of casas particulares are hand selected with prime locations that will put you right in heart of the action and have private bathrooms, air conditioning & a fresh breakfast each morning.