Carnaval De La Vega In The Dominican Republic

Carnaval De La Vega In The Dominican Republic

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The Dominican Republic is an object of intrigue for international travelers, who flock to this Caribbean paradise for colorful cuisine, languid, turquoise beaches, and a fascinating culture that boasts European, African, and native Tainos roots. Itinerants travel in droves to experience the Dominicans serene beaches and national parks; world renowned cigars and Bermudez rum; and intoxicating bachata and merengue sounds as they waft through the countrys intimate streets.

The month of February, however, presents this remarkable fusion in full swing. Dominicans and tourists alike fill the bustling streets each weekend, celebrating their culture and autonomy in an effusion of art, music, costumes, and food. This month-long festival culminates annually with the explosive Carnaval de La Vega, a festival that elicits the unbridled Dominican spirit from the sleepy countryside of La Vega Real.

Set in La Vega, 125 miles north of Santo Domingo, Carnaval de La Vega unites the effervescent country to commemorate Dominican Republic's independence and rich cultural tapestry. For travelers, this is a prime time throughout the country, as each Dominican town participates in this colorful, country wide festival. Carnaval de La Vega, however, is perhaps the most ebullient, as it is considered the oldest and most spectacular festival among native Dominicans.

Colorful processions cleave through the streets every Saturday and Sunday during February in La Vega, where thousands of jubilant revelers gallivant around in ornate masks or grotesque devil costumes. Revelers paint their faces black to depict deep-seeded African lineage or prod unassuming tourists with vejigas, an inflated pig bladder used to regulate the boisterous crowd. Painted bodies, fluorescent masks, laughter and music fuel the contagious energy of this traditional festival.

To witness Carnaval de La Vegas exuberant display is to experience the Dominican Republic in its most animated and majestic state, to which many local Dominicans will most certainly attest.


About the Author:
Enid Glasgow is a travel write who enjoys traveling in the Americas and Caribbean. When visiting the Dominican Republic, she stays at Paradisus Palma Real, the exclusive Dominican Republic resort.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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