The Dominican Republic's Carnival

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February is the time when the Dominican Republic comes alive. In the time before Lent, city streets are crowded with locals and tourists alike, dancing to the native meringue and bachata rhythms. Carnival is one of the country’s most eagerly awaited festivals. This celebration is a country-wide phenomenon, which varies from city to city, region to region. In fact, many cities have their own styles of masks and carnival characters that they bring to the celebration.

The Parades

Brightly colored and costumed figures dance through the streets of the country. Sundays, however, are the most glitzy and flashy part of the festival: the parades.

Angels and Devils

Participants dress vibrantly as demons and devils, in costumes created months in advance by local artisans. Papier-mâché masks, adorned with pointed teeth and horns, top off these outfits. Throughout the years, these masks have come to be recognized as works of folk art. The most popular mask and costume at the parade is the Diablos Cojuelos, or horned devils. These devils are referred to as the "punishers" at the parade, while spectators are the "sinners." The devils therefore punish the crowds by using innocuous weapons such as water balloons.

Colorful Costumes

You will also see a variety of other costumes and adornment, such as people in full body paint, men dressing as women or and generally anything that represents mischief and mayhem.

The celebration culminates on or near Dominican Independence Day, which falls on February 27th.

Countrywide Party

The most popular carnival in the Dominican Republic is in the small town of La Vega. Not usually a big tourist draw, this city’s population doubles during Carnival celebrations. Santo Domingo also holds impressive celebrations, as well.

Wherever you are in the country, it’s likely that celebrations will last late into the night, with local beer and rum flowing freely.

This festival is a union of Dominican religion and culture that brings the country together, in a very colorful way.