In December 2023, the Cuban government declared January 3rd 2024, as a national holiday, recognising the effort of the populace throughout the year 2023.
The Prime Minister of Cuba issued Decree 100, establishing this day of rest, as announced by José Amado Ricardo Guerra, Secretary of the Council of Ministers, in the National Assembly of People’s Power.
The decree, which will be formalised through Resolution #20 of the Minister of Labor and Social Security, will allow for the suspension of almost all work activities. However, there will be exemptions for essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies, fuel outlets, funeral services, hospitality, tourism, communications, radio and television, basic public services, fishing, and other activities authorized by law. Workers in these essential services will receive their usual daily wage.
The decision to declare January 3rd as a national holiday is a recognition of the Cuban people’s efforts in 2023. Almost all activities will cease during the holiday except for the essential services. Workers receive the corresponding salary for a day’s work.
This new holiday will follow the traditional January 1st and 2nd holidays, which commemorate the anniversary of the revolution and the victory over President Fulgencio Batista.
