Santiago de Cuba, the island’s second largest city, is home to the island’s biggest, oldest and most famous carnival. José Millet, the author of several important works on carnival and local folklore, succinctly describes the importance of conga parades: “If asked to define the essence of Santiago’s Carnival, I’d reply, without hesitation: “La Conga!” (El carnaval, 11). The word “conga” in Santiago can refer to: a street parade with thousands of participants, the musical ensemble associated with this parade, or the style of music it plays. Unless otherwise indicated, "conga" on this site will refer to the genre as practiced in Santiago.