The Dominican Republic is a country full of culture and traditions, because we are a combination of races, Black, White, and Taino Indians. We inherited rich qualities from each one of them. One of the most colorful traditions in the Dominican Republic is Independence Day, which is celebrated with a Carnaval. We celebrate our independence from Haiti on February 27, and it is celebrated across the whole country. People travel from every region of the island to get together on the streets to dance and enjoy the parades.

            The parades are very colorful. The costumes, depending on the region were they come from, are a mix of elements and traditions from Africans slaves, European colonizers and Taino Indians. Personages that are always present are: The Platanuses, people dressed up with costumes made out of dry plantain and banana leaves. Diablos Cojuelos are people dressed up with evil masks, their suits are covered with little mirrors, jingle bells, cowbells and a cape; it represents the medieval lords. The Taino Indians use tapa rabos, feathers, bows and arrows. The Africanos paint their bodies with charcoal and burned car oil, representing Africans slaves. The typical Roba la Gallina, is a personage in a custom with exaggerated boobs and butt.   

            What I like most is the music. I love music, as a child during Carnaval I always dressed up like a singer. Carnaval is a display of traditional rhythm, Merengue, Palos, Bachatas and other typical music. It is a party in the streets every weekend during February. Singers and famous group come from every part of the country and other neighboring countries to perform at the Malecon. I do not like the Diablos Cojuelos. They are very aggressive, and they use a whip to hit people around them. The capital, Santo Domingo, is the center stage for the Carnaval. People from all regions take a place in the Malecon. During the parade they feel the Caribbean Sea breeze, and contemplate the majestic view of the sunset between the palm and coconut trees. Every year is a display of creativity. After the parade, during the night the jubilee continues; Las Americas Avenue is closed to through traffic because is time for dancing. The people in the Dominican Republic during Carnaval , dance in the streets all day and night.       

            Dominicans every year celebrate with joy their independence; it is a very special day for all Dominicans. It is amazing, the creativity of the people during Carnaval, the colors, music, ideas, originality, materials, and all these elements together make the Dominican Carnaval an unforgettable experience.