I cannot deny that I felt skeptical when the light drizzle turned into a torrential downpour barely half an hour before the scheduled start time. The opening of the exhibition Historias Ilustradas, by the renowned graphic artist Arístides Hernández (ARES), which was set to kick off the Cuban Culture Days in Mérida, seemed in jeopardy, but that was not the case. Little by little, under the heavy rain, friends and members of the public arrived. It was deeply gratifying to watch Le Cirque gallery fill up as everyone marvelled at the beauty and freshness of the showcase.

Jorge Alberto Gutiérrez, a prominent cultural promoter leading the institution, expressed his gratitude in his welcoming remarks to the attending audience, which included the Consul General of Cuba in Mérida, Ms. Nayma Acosta Aguirre; the Rector of the University of the Arts of Yucatán (UNAY), architect Domingo Rodríguez Semerena; Joulier Quintanilla, president of the Association of Cuban Residents in Mérida; Iván Cervera, director of the gallery; island singer and songwriter Waldo Mendoza; among other figures from Cuban and Yucatecan art—and many friends!

The opening of this exhibition—composed of illustrations created by ARES as an integral component of children's literature alongside works by authors such as Nelson Simón, Maykel Casabuena, Sandra Martin Denis, Dora Alonso, Ivette Vian, Enid Vian, Carlo Frabetti, Carlo Calcines, Joseba Sarrionandia, and Bianca Pitzorno—served as an effective introduction to this highly anticipated and traditional celebration in the city of Mérida.

For those unable to attend this initial event honoring Cuban culture, celebrations continue. On Wednesday, October 14, the same venue will host a literary evening featuring a tribute to Cuban writer Mirta Yáñez, presented by Master Lucyla May Peña, as well as a posthumous tribute to writer and cultural manager Pedro Juan de la Portilla Cabrera, delivered by Master Fer de la Cruz. Additionally, Arístides Hernández (ARES) will offer a brief presentation discussing his experience at the intersection of graphic art and literature. The evening will conclude with a performance of Las hijas de la Rueca, directed by Carlos Caballero.

On Thursday, October 15, graphic humor returns to the spotlight through the satirical supplement dedeté, presenting the exhibition ¡Dale un Chance al Planeta!, an intelligent and engaging call to reflection in favor of safeguarding the future of life and preserving humanity's shared habitat. The event will take place at 7:00 p.m. at Darío Villasís Galería Estudio, located at Calle 21, No. 96, Local 1A x 18 and 20, Itzimná, Mérida, Yucatán.

Meanwhile, Saturday, October 17, will bring the main celebration of Cuban identity (cubanía). Returning at 8:00 p.m. to Le Cirque gallery, attendees can enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine provided by El Rancho de Tata restaurant while taking in musical performances by Ritmo MC and Mezcla Cubana, alongside a comedic routine by comedian Julio César Rodríguez, better known as El Habanero.

The celebration of Cuban Culture Days in Mérida has commenced with great enthusiasm and public reception, continuing to share the island's cultural heritage with friends across the region.