Major Events & Festivals in Santiago, Dominican Republic

1. Merengue Festival

Celebration of Dominican music and dance with vibrant performances and competitions.

Authentic Experience: Immerse in the rich culture of merengue, a native Dominican rhythm.
Local Food and Drinks: Savor traditional dishes like sancocho and mofongo during the festival.
Diverse Performances: Enjoy various styles of merengue, from classic to contemporary, during the event.

Vibrant pre-Lenten celebration featuring colorful costumes, music, and dance.

Cultural Immersion: Participate in a centuries-old tradition with locals during the Carnival.
Costume Parades: Witness elaborate, creative costumes showcased during parades and competitions.
Street Parties: Join street parties filled with music, dancing, and local cuisine throughout the city.

Annual celebration commemorating the visit of the Three Wise Men, featuring music, dance, and gifts.

Cultural Tradition: Experience a Dominican tradition that dates back centuries.
Community Spirit: Join the community as they celebrate the Three Kings Day with joy and camaraderie.
Gift Giving: Participate in the local tradition of giving gifts to friends, family, and neighbors.

Annual religious event honoring Saint James, with processions, mass, and cultural activities.

Religious Experience: Connect spiritually by participating in a religious event of great significance to Dominicans.
Cultural Activities: Enjoy music, dance, and food during the festivities honoring Santiago Apostle.
Historic Monument: Visit Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, a historic monument dedicated to Saint James.

Annual music festival featuring local and international jazz artists.

Music Exploration: Discover new talents and appreciate different styles of jazz during the fest.
International Artists: Experience performances by renowned international jazz artists.
Dominican Jazz Scene: Explore the growing Dominican jazz scene and its unique style.

Annual event showcasing literature from around the world.

Literary Discovery: Discover new authors and works during the fair.
Cultural Exchange: Participate in discussions, workshops, and presentations from global literary figures.
Local Authors: Support local authors and learn about Dominican literature during the event.

Biennial exhibition featuring contemporary art from around the world.

Artistic Immersion: Immerse yourself in the latest contemporary art trends during the Biennial.
Global Perspectives: Gain insights into different perspectives on art and society through international artists.
Local Art Scene: Discover emerging Dominican artists and their unique artistic expressions.

Annual film festival showcasing films from around the world.

Cinematic Exploration: Discover new and exciting films during the festival.
International Perspectives: Gain insights into different perspectives on society, culture, and life through international films.
Dominican Filmmakers: Support local filmmakers and learn about Dominican stories during the event.

Annual marathon with breathtaking views of Santiago's landscapes.

Physical Challenge: Test your endurance and determination during the marathon.
Scenic Course: Enjoy breathtaking views of Santiago's landscapes while running.
Community Spirit: Join a supportive community of runners and spectators during the event.

Celebration of Dominican cigars, with tastings, workshops, and competitions.

Tobacco Appreciation: Learn about the art of tobacco cultivation, processing, and smoking during the festival.
Cigar Tastings: Sample a variety of Dominican cigars, each with unique flavors and characteristics.
Workshops and Competitions: Participate in workshops or competitions related to cigar rolling, appreciation, and tasting.

Annual celebration of Dominican cuisine, with cooking demonstrations, tastings, and competitions.

Culinary Experience: Indulge in the rich flavors and diverse dishes that define Dominican cuisine.
Local Cooking Techniques: Learn traditional cooking techniques from local chefs during demonstrations.
Food Competitions: Participate in or watch competitions featuring Dominican dishes and culinary skills.

Annual music festival showcasing a variety of genres, from merengue to bachata.

Genre Variety: Discover new artists and styles beyond merengue and bachata during the festival.
Local Talent: Support local musicians and learn about Dominican music culture.
International Performers: Experience performances by renowned international artists.

Annual festival showcasing traditional Dominican dances and styles.

Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Dominican dance.
Dance Lessons: Learn traditional Dominican dances during workshops and lessons.
Performances: Enjoy captivating performances showcasing the beauty of Dominican dance.

Annual fair featuring local artisans and their unique handmade crafts.

Artisan Interaction: Meet local artisans and learn about their crafting techniques.
Handmade Crafts: Discover beautiful, handmade crafts that reflect the spirit of Dominican culture.
One-of-a-Kind Items: Find unique, one-of-a-kind items to bring home as souvenirs or gifts.

Annual event showcasing street art and graffiti from local and international artists.

Artistic Exploration: Discover the evolving street art scene in Santiago.
Local Artists: Support local artists and learn about their unique artistic expressions.
International Artists: Gain insights into different perspectives on art and society through international artists.