The culture

The culture and people of the Dominican Republic, like its Spanish Caribbean neighbors, is a blend of the cultures of the Spanish colonists, African slaves, and Taíno natives. European, African and Taíno cultural elements are most prominent in food, family structure, religion and music. Many Arawak/Taíno names and words are used in daily conversation and for many foods native to the Dominican Republic.
El carnaval de La Vega is one of the country's oldest most renowned carnivals. It is also the most important cultural event in the province, with the major groups "The Broncos" and "The Fieras," or "Savage Beasts" participating.




El carnaval de Santiago is another important Carnival. This one focuses on the class differences in the city, particularly around the La Joya and Los Pepines neighborhoods where the Lechones and Pepines originated.




El carnaval de Bonao is this town's most important celebration, and is a creative parade that has its own identity. The main groups of performers are The Charamicos and The Caraduras.


El carnaval de San Pedro de Macorís is known for the Guloyas, descendants of the English-speaking black people who immigrated to this city, and who perform a very striking dance set to music.


El carnaval de Azua is one of the oldest celebrations, incorporating native motifs with other fantasy characters. In addition, they also combine the festival with the celebration of the Battle of March 19th, so here you get to experience two celebrations at once.


El carnaval de Cabral: is known for the beautiful horned masks of the Cachúas. They leave their masks unpainted but with a colorful head of hair.


Other important cultural events are the Carnivals of San Cristóbal, Cotuí, Montecristi, Elías Piña, Puerto Plata, Salcedo and the San Juan de la Maguana Carnival.