HAVANA: A fireworks explosion injured 39 people, including six children between the ages of 11 and 15, during a popular Cuban carnival on Christmas Eve, state-run media reported on Monday. The centuries-old Parrandas festival in the central town of Remedios takes place every Dec. 24 and draws thousands of Cubans and some tourists. "An unfortunate accident with fireworks occurred last night in Remedios," the government's Cubadebate internet news service reported. All the injured appeared to be local residents, and the report did not mention that any tourists were hurt. Two of the town’s neighborhoods compete on Christmas Eve each year to put on the most spectacular show with floats and fireworks amidst a carnival atmosphere.

Source: New Strait Times December 25, 2017 23:26 UTC