Carnival (February): Massive celebration featuring elaborate parades, colorful costumes (Diablos Cojuelos), music, and street parties. Best experienced in Sugar Cane Festival region but Santo Domingo has significant celebrations. Fills hotels weeks in advance.
Independence Day (February 27): National holiday with patriotic ceremonies, military parades, concerts, and cultural performances celebrating Dominican independence from Haiti in 1844.
All Saints' Day (November 1): Cemetery visits, flower decorations, and remembrance ceremonies. Many cultural events and special masses throughout the city.
Christmas Season (December): Extended celebrations including Christmas concerts, nativity displays, special foods (habichuelas guisadas), and New Year festivities. Streets decorated with lights and holiday decorations.
Dominican Republic Independence Day (August 16): Summer celebration with cultural performances, exhibitions, and community events.
Festival de Merengue (July, Puerto Plata): While in coastal city, sometimes celebrated in Santo Domingo with dance performances and live music showcasing national dance.