Parades are a big deal in Havana. It is amazing how the word gets out. Without much fanfare or advertising all of a sudden everyone knows that a parade is happening. And a happening it is. Businesses all close, school is cancelled, and the stores are closed. The parade route invariably follows the broad drive along the Malecon and ends up at the large plaza in front of the tall building that houses the US special Interests Section. There many very loud speeches are given, music blares, and the crowd cheers. All of the parade marchers which may number half a million people or more wave their little paper flags and most have smiles. Parades can bring out happiness almost anywhere. There are no military vehicles or military troops in the parades, it is a parade of the people. Usually timed to make a statement in response to some political development somewhere in the world that pertains to Cuba and to demonstrate that the people support the Cuban government. Even in Cuba people can have fun (or enjoy a day off to lay low and work around the house!)
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