Santo Domingo is recognized internationally for the festive atmosphere that prevails in its streets, squares and in each corner.
The ultimate expression of this spirit is during Carnival holiday. It amazes with its costumes and disguises. These outfits blend African elements and traditions, brought by slaves who were transported to the New World, with European customs and clothes of the settlers.
This popular holiday tradition is celebrated on the eve of Lent when the inhabitants of Santo Domingo disguised themselves parodying the European carnival of carnestoledanas.
According to existing literature, in the XVI century, more precisely in 1520, there already was carnival in the city of Santo Domingo and for some researchers, these are the first manifestations of Carnival on the island and throughout Latin America. They took place in what is now called “Ruins of Vega Vieja.” It is said that in the XVI century there already were masks in the Dominican capital.
Other smaller carnivals also started taking place, such as in the town of Azua, where carnival is celebrated on March 19, to commemorate the great battle that was the beginning of independence.
With African influence, we find the carnival “cimarrón,” and the best known is that of Cabral. Its dates often coincide with Easter.
During the festivities, the Limping Devils in costumes covered with mirrors, rattles and bells, ridicule the lords and landowners, with platanuses and other typical African costumes, along with countless manifestations of popular creativity.
The Dominican Carnival has received significant contributions both of African roots and from other countries. There is an obvious strong influence of the Carnival of Venice, an influence that came indirectly through the carnivals of Rio de Janeiro and Trinidad and Tobago. This influence is evident in the pomposity of costumes and masks, reinvented each year to surprise and fill the streets of Dominican cities with magic, color and beauty.
Pack your bags and do not forget to bring joy, humor and, of course, the desire to have a great time, and book your stay at BelleVue Dominican Bay for the next dates during which you can experience the Dominican Carnival.
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