Carnaval Dominicano
When: February 1 - March 1, 2026• Where: Various cities across the Dominican Republic, including Santo Domingo, La Vega, and Santiago.
Carnaval Dominicano is one of the most vibrant and colorful celebrations in the Caribbean, deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic. This month-long festival features parades, music, and dance, with each region showcasing its unique traditions and costumes.At a glance
- Traditional parades featuring 'diablos cojuelos' (mischievous devils) in elaborate costumes
- Live merengue and bachata performances
- Cultural exhibitions showcasing Dominican history and folklore
- Street food stalls offering local delicacies
- A lively opening parade in Santo Domingo on February 1, 2026
Key dates
- February 1, 2026: Opening parade in Santo Domingo
- Every Sunday in February: Major parades in La Vega and Santiago
- February 27, 2026: National Independence Day parade
- March 1, 2026: Closing celebrations across the country
How to get there
The Dominican Republic has a number of international airports, with Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo and Cibao International Airport (STI) in Santiago being the most popular for reaching Carnaval events. From these airports, you can take local buses or taxis to reach your destination city.
Where to stay
Santo Domingo offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels like the Renaissance Santo Domingo Jaragua Hotel, to budget-friendly hostels like Casa Aluge. In La Vega, consider staying at Hotel Rey, which offers proximity to parade routes. For Santiago, Hotel Matum is a convenient choice with great amenities.
Playing mas
To fully participate in Carnaval, consider joining a 'comparsa' band, where you can purchase or rent a costume to join the parades. Many bands welcome tourists, and you can register with them in advance. It’s also a great way to learn about the cultural significance of the costumes and be part of the festivities.
Budget
| Category | Typical range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airfare | $300-700 | Depends on origin |
| Accommodation | $50-150/night | Varies by location and type |
| Costume | $100-500 | Depends on the band |
| Local transportation | $2-20/day | Buses and taxis |
| Food and drinks | $20-50/day | Street food versus dining out |
Participating in Carnaval can be tailored to various budgets. It is advisable to book accommodations and flights well in advance to secure the best rates. For costumes, reaching out to local bands beforehand will provide more economical options.
Getting around & connectivity
During Carnaval, most cities increase public transportation services. Local buses and conchos (shared taxis) are economical options for getting around. For convenience, especially late at night, taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber are available in larger cities like Santo Domingo.
Climate & packing
February is a pleasant month in the Dominican Republic, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Light clothing is recommended, along with comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and hats to protect against the sun while attending parades. Don't forget a rain jacket as there might be occasional showers.
Sample plan
- Day 1: Arrive in Santo Domingo, check into your hotel, and explore the Colonial Zone.
- Day 2: Attend the opening parade in Santo Domingo in Parque Independencia.
- Day 3: Travel to La Vega to witness their famous Sunday parade.
- Day 4: Explore La Vega's local markets and visit the Museo del Carnaval Vegano.
- Day 5: Head to Santiago for cultural exhibitions and live music performances.
- Day 6: Relax at a beach near Puerto Plata before heading back to Santo Domingo.
- Day 7: Enjoy the closing celebrations in Santo Domingo with fireworks and a street party.