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Dominican Republic > Dominican Carnival
Dominican Carnival
The Dominican Carnival is one of the most colorful traditions in the Dominican Republic, and, probably, the most cheerful and colorful Caribbean's carnival.
The Carnival is celebrated on every weekend of February, but the apex of the festivity takes place during the final days of February. In some years it falls at the same time with the 27th of February, Dominican Independence Day.
The Dominican Carnival is a fusion of religions and cultures. It is rooted in Europe. The first Spanish settlers brought this tradition to Hispaniola. At first, it was a religious celebration on the date of Corpus Christi. However it eventually was blended with native customs and pagan celebrations. The Dominican Carnival also experienced the African influence.
Characters of the Dominican Carnival
Devils: The central characters of the Carnival are Diablos Cojuelos (devils). They are known by the names of "Lechones" in Santiago, "Cachuas" in Cabral, "Toros" in Montecristi, "Papeluses" in Cotui, "Guloyas" in San Pedro de Macoris, "Maimantas" in Hato Mayor, and "Mascaros" in Bonao.
The costume of diablo cojuelo consists of a brightly colored layered suit covered with small mirrors and bells and worn with a devil mask, usually with many horns and teeth.
The Death: This universal figure wears the classical skeleton and skull attire, always seeking to frighten others. Holding a scythe, The Death grabs children by their feet so that they can be hit by the Diablos with their air-filled bladders.
Roba la Gallina is one of the most popular characters of the Dominican Carnival. This persona asks storekeepers for "contributions" - groceries, rum, or money - and shares the items with his followers, usually children.
The Indians: groups of individuals dressed up as indians play historic dramas, based on some episodes of the Dominican history, or stage tainos' daily life episodes, such as Areitos, ball games, and religious rites.
"Tiznaos" or Africans: This is a typical carnival group. These groups show the African origins of the Dominican people. They blacken their bodies with soot from smashed moistened charcoal, and then anoint themselves with burned engine oil in order to make their skin look glossy.