The vibe at Habana Vieja Fest. Credit: Habana Vieja Fest Facebook page.

In Velez-Malaga, things are about to get a whole lot spicier. The Habana Vieja Fest is coming into town from October 24 to 26, promising three days of irresistible Cuban energy, live music, food, and dance.

Set in Parque Andalucia, this brand-new festival is a full-on celebration of Cuban culture, blending traditional rhythms with the laid-back Mediterranean vibe of Axarquia. Organised by Producciones Raices with the support of the Velez-Malaga town hall, the event follows the success of the Gastrolatino Festival earlier this year. But this time, it's all about La Habana.

Expect a vibrant re-creation of Old Havana, complete with colourful façades, balconies, and street décor that transport visitors straight to Cuba's capital. "We want people to experience the real essence of Cuba, its warmth, rhythm, and flavour," says festival producer Rafa Urquiza.

The weekend will feature live bands, salsa performances, DJs, and a tribute to the legendary Buena Vista Social Club. If hungry, head to the Zona Gastro Latina, where food trucks will serve up authentic Cuban and Latin American dishes, from crispy empanadas to juicy ropa vieja.

One of the festival's most special things is the inclusion of the Orishas, deities from the island's Afro-Cuban religion, brought to life by a visiting Cuban priestess. She'll offer a symbolic glimpse into the island's spiritual roots, a nod to the deeper soul behind the party.

The music kicks off on Friday at 8 PM, then keeps the beat going on Saturday and Sunday from 1:30 PM to late (until midnight on Sunday). Many hours of dancing, cocktails, contests, and plenty of spontaneous moves under the stars.

Councillor Lourdes Piña, who helped launch the event, summed it up: "We want Velez to feel like Havana for a weekend: full of joy, rhythm, and community." If sunshine, salsa, and street food sound like your idea of fun, clear your calendar, cause Havana lands in Velez.