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Havana International Ballet Festival 2026

An Intimate Window into Cuba’s Greatest Art Form.

Operated by Royal Palm Elite Services
OFAC-compliant cultural travel • Small curated groups • Independent Cuban partners Direct support for artists & communities.

October 28 – November 9, 2026

Discover Havana during its most luminous cultural season, when the city moves to the rhythm of one of the world’s most revered ballet traditions. Anchored by the Havana International Ballet Festival, this journey invites you beyond the stage into rehearsal studios, artist ateliers, historic theaters, and the creative neighborhoods that shape Cuban dance today.

Our program blends festival performances with intimate cultural encounters: conversations with dance historians, visits to independent galleries, meetings with Cuban creators, and thoughtfully chosen experiences that directly support local entrepreneurs and the artistic community.

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About the Festival

Founded in 1960 by Alicia Alonso the legendary Cuban prima ballerina who danced with American Ballet Theatre and became one of the greatest Giselles of all time the Havana International Ballet Festival has grown into one of the world's premier dance events, held every two years.

Cuba's National Ballet, which Alonso also founded and directed for decades, takes center stage alongside international companies and soloists. The festival showcases the technical precision and dramatic artistry that define the Cuban school of dance a training tradition that has produced world-class dancers for over six decades.

This is more than performances. It's a cultural moment when Havana's entire dance community opens its doors to the world.

For 2026 we will offer two distinct programs during the festival:

• Festival Opening Program – October 28 to November 3, 2026 (including the Opening Gala)

• Festival Closing Program – November 3 to November 9, 2026 (including the Closing Gala)

Designed for discerning travelers, ballet enthusiasts, arts patrons, and dance professionals alike, each itinerary is carefully curated, small in scale, and fully U.S.–compliant—offering a rare window into the discipline, elegance, and human spirit that define Cuban ballet. We invite you to contact us to arrange an unforgettable experience beyond these two programs, tailored to your interests and schedule.

Priority Registration Now Open – Reserve Your Spot

Our Programs

Two immersive journeys into Havana’s ballet world, Oct 28–Nov 3 and Nov 3–9, 2026

Oct 28–Nov 3, 2026

Experience the opening days of the festival with exclusive cultural events and performances.

Nov 3–9, 2026

Delve into the festival’s crescendo with intimate rehearsals and city explorations.

FAQs

The 2026 festival performances have not yet been announced. How does this program work?

Our itineraries are intentionally designed to operate regardless of the final performance schedule or casting. Once the official program is released, we will secure tickets and align each itinerary with the most significant events available during your travel dates.

What happens if specific performances sell out or change?

Cuba’s cultural calendar can evolve. If a particular performance becomes unavailable, it will be replaced with an equivalent or superior artistic experience—such as alternate festival events, private rehearsals, or exclusive encounters with Cuban dance professionals.

Is the trip still worthwhile without confirmed shows?

Absolutely. The Havana Ballet Experience is built as a comprehensive cultural journey—combining dance, history, independent arts, and people-to-people engagement. Performances are the centerpiece, not the only value.

Yes. All programs operate under U.S. regulations for travel to Cuba with a structured Support for the Cuban People focus, using independent guides, private businesses, and meaningful cultural activities.

Is this travel legal for U.S. citizens?
When will tickets be guaranteed?

As soon as the festival releases its official schedule, we will confirm seating in the best available categories for all registered guests in order of deposit date.

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Join the list to receive updates

Become part of the priority list for our curated journeys during the Havana International Ballet Festival 2026.