MIAMI — Many Cuban Americans gathered at the Miami-Dade County Fair and Exposition Center on Saturday for Cuba Nostalgia, a celebration of Cuban heritage, culture and the Catholic faith.
While attendees celebrated at the event, many were also closely following developments in Cuba.
The situation on the island continues to deteriorate, with worsening power blackouts and the Cuban government saying it has run out of oil because of the U.S. blockade.
The crisis has sparked some of the largest protests seen around Havana.
Hospitals are also suspending surgeries and facing severe medicine shortages.
The developments come as the U.S. Department of Justice is reportedly preparing an indictment against former Cuban President Raul Castro, the 94-year-old brother of Fidel Castro.
Questions remain over what happens next, with some legal experts wondering whether the U.S. could move to capture Castro, similar to actions taken against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
For many at the festival, the situation is personal.
Robert Diaz, a Cuban American and longtime vendor at the celebration, said he is worried about family members still in Cuba and hopes Castro is brought to justice.
“They have to pay for what they’ve done for many others who’ve lost their lives,” Diaz said.
Another Cuban American attendee also expressed hope for the country’s future.
“I wish that Cuba is free soon. It’s just a matter of waiting and hoping things happen and the right people do their thing,” she said.
Diaz said he believes a brighter future for Cuba is near and described that optimism as the general mood at the festival.
He said this year feels different from past celebrations because there is legitimate hope that change is coming.
Copyright 2026 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.
