There are many Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic that showcase some of the best aspects of the richness surrounding Dominican culture. In this article, we will tell you how Christmas is celebrated in such a dream destination. Keep reading!
What are the main Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic?
When it comes to how Christmas is celebrated in the Dominican Republic, the customs of this Caribbean territory combine typical Catholic traditions with others unique to the region.
If you travel during this time of year to the Dominican Republic, you will find a wide list of things to do and see in Punta Cana at Christmas, ranging from the Christmas dinner with exquisite traditional dishes typical of this country to waiting for the gifts on Three Kings’ Day.
Some of the most representative Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic are the following:
1. Misa de Gallo
This celebration is known as Misa de Gallo or Midnight Mass. It is one of the main Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic. It takes place every December 25 at midnight or shortly before, with the purpose of commemorating the birth of baby Jesus.
2. Christmas Eve Dinner
This family dinner is one of the Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic that takes place every December 24. It is a gathering where family and friends come together to celebrate Christmas Eve.
For this gathering, people usually eat dishes such as Telera, a large bread; the roast pork cooked on a spit, which is very typical of Cibao in the north of the country; and stuffed turkey, which comes from San Juan de la Maguana and San José de Ocoa.
Other dishes that are essential during Christmas celebrations in the Dominican Republic include pasteles en hojas, typical of the eastern part of the country. They consist of a dough made with plantains, green bananas or root vegetables filled with meat, wrapped in banana leaves and tied with string.
People also eat Russian salad, a dish made with boiled vegetables, eggs, mayonnaise, and fruits, as well as moro de guandules (rice with pigeon peas), baked pork leg, and chicken. Meanwhile, those with a sweet tooth can enjoy treats such as coconut sweets (coquitos) or fruits like pears, apples, and grapes.
3. Secret Santa or “Angelitos”
This is one of the Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic celebrated in institutions, schools, companies, or colleges. It consists of a gift exchange among participants known as “Angelito”, which usually begins in early December and lasts until the last working day of the month.
The tradition involves writing the names of participants on pieces of paper and drawing them so that each person is assigned someone.
Participants must secretly give gifts on specific days to the person assigned to them, while keeping their identity hidden until the last day of the month, when everyone reveals who their “Angelito” was.
4. Aguinaldos, carols and ginger
This is another of the most popular Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic, where friends gather to go from house to house singing Christmas carols, accompanied by instruments such as the güira, tambora, and accordion.
5. Perico Ripiao
This is a typical music style that is played throughout the year, but it takes on a special role during Christmas, especially in mountainous areas or the Cibao region.
During its performance, the singer uses a strong vocal tone, standing out over the music with a fast rhythm.
6. New Year
New Year is one of the most important traditional celebrations in the Dominican Republic. It is celebrated on December 31 with family and friends while waiting for the new year to arrive. It is a gathering where people toast and share their wishes for the coming year.
When midnight arrives and the traditional cannon blast signals the start of the new year, everyone hugs in celebration, marking the farewell to the “old” year and the arrival of the new one.
7. La llegada de los Reyes Magos
La celebración del Día de los Santos Reyes Magos se hace el 6 de enero de cada año. En esta fecha, los niños reciben uno o varios regalos en el lugar que habían esperado cuando se levantan.
7. Three Kings’ Day
The celebration of Three Kings’ Day takes place every January 6. On this date, children receive one or more gifts when they wake up.
8. Clearing out old things and painting the house
This is one of the Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic where people must get rid of old items and thoroughly clean the house. It is also a good time to clean closets and wardrobes to replace old clothes with new ones.
Another tradition is painting the house to bring good luck.
Traveling to Punta Cana during this special time is always a great plan to experience Dominican Christmas traditions and enjoy them to the fullest.
Where to stay in Punta Cana?
If you want to discover the magic of Christmas in the Dominican Republic and stay in Punta Cana to enjoy this unique experience, you can choose from the different Lopesan options in Playa Bávaro. From the full experience of Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino, the exclusive setting of Lopesan Caoba Lagoon, the more dynamic option of Lopesan Splash Cove, or the adults-only tranquility of Lopesan Serenity Bay, you will find the perfect accommodation to enjoy unforgettable holidays in the Caribbean.
We want you to feel at home, so contact us to learn more about our services. We will be delighted to help you enjoy one of the best places to stay in Punta Cana.
