5 Dominican Traditions That Will Surprise You

The Dominican Republic is a gem in the Caribbean that is home to some very unique customs. To delve into the Dominican culture is to learn about the Taino and Hispanic influences that have survived to this day and that make this a beautiful island that is very attractive to tourists. Musical preferences, essential flavours, typical dances and emblematic celebrations define a country whose history has Spanish and African roots. Find out more about the Dominican traditions through our selection in this article and get your first up-close look at this country.

“La bandera dominicana”

This is the country’s dish par excellence and can’t be left out when it comes to a traditional meal that is worth its salt. This hearty meal with white rice, red beans and stewed chicken or beef is the cornerstone of the local cuisine that delights its inhabitants. Normally accompanied by salad, avocado or fried banana, this trio of flavours is recognisable in any part of the country and is a tradition that must be tried during your visit to the Dominican Republic.

“El perico ripiao”

A Dominican party isn’t a party if there isn’t merengue playing at all times. And although the Dominican merengue has several different versions, the perico ripiao or merengue típico is the oldest and most popular of them, consolidating itself as the Dominican tradition with the best rhythm. Its origin dates back to the Cibao, a cultural region located in the north of the island. Currently, both the musical genre and the group of musicians who play it have the same name. They are accompanied by an accordion, drum and güira that delights all those who come to the colonial area of Santo Domingo. In this spot, nestled between Colón Park and El Conde street, you can find different musical groups playing live music. Discovering the Dominican music and folklore is a guaranteed unforgettable experience.

Dominican sweet beans for Easter

The Dominican palate knows all too well that eating sweet beans during Easter is a must. A dish that consists of red beans, sugar, milk, raisins, sweet potato and various spices is the best proof that the Caribbean cuisine is a mixture of several influences that have survived to this day, giving rise to surprising creations. There is no traditional home in the country where they are not prepared, and it’s a dish that’s very easy to find for any tourist wanting to try them. 

Place your “charamico” at Christmas

With the arrival of Christmas, Dominican homes are decorated and having a charamico is a must. This Dominican version of the Christmas tree features branches painted white and moulded into a cone shape. Although its sale didn’t become popular until the 1970s, it is now a tradition that is deeply rooted in Dominican culture. Its presence becomes evident from mid-October, where they can be found being sold on the streets of the capital.

The pain of “vejigazo” in Carnival

Continuing with the Dominican celebrations, Carnival is one of the most famous. And the most traditional part of this celebration is to run away from the little devils who are armed with a fuete or a vejiga (whip made of a cow’s dried, inflated bladder). The lashes are intended to remove the demon from the bodies of passers-by and have become quite a spectacle. The Carnival at the Malecón (seafront boulevard) in Santo Domingo is one of the most highly acclaimed and has specially designated areas for watching this fun parade.

These are just a few of the most deeply rooted Dominican traditions, which you’ll be able to experience first-hand during your visit to the Dominican Republic.