The Best Time to Visit the Dominican Republic

When is the Best Time to Visit the Dominican Republic?

One of the best times to visit the Dominican Republic is from March through May. The weather is pleasant and avoids the hurricane season, with occasional light rain. As the high season has ended, hotel prices and costs for excursions are lower while crowds are also smaller.

• Prime Period for Clemency Weather: December-April.
• Best Time for Sightseeing: March-May.
• Greatest Timeframe for Cost Savings: Mid-April/Autumn.
• Ideal Time Period for Social Gatherings: February and August.
• Most Advantageous Times for Surfing & Kitesurfing: July and November.
• Prime Time for Snorkeling & Diving: December to February.
• Ideal Timeframe for Whale Seeing: December-March.
• Best Time for White Water Rafting on Yaque del Norte River: July and August.
• Best Time for Lobster: July-February.

• Ideal Phase to Go to the Dominican Republic: The Dominican Republic currently positions itself as the most frequented country in the Caribbean with over 6 million travelers arriving each year. Known for its beaches, resorts, and golf courses, the best time to go to the Dominican Republic is from March to May when the peak tourism season is coming to an end and the dry period starts. Wait until the day following Easter to arrive when crowds thin out, particularly at Puerto Cana, Puerto Plata, and the Amber Coast. In March, you’ll find smaller groups than over the wintertime months, noticeably less children, and somewhat lower hotel rates. Lower occupancy levels also mean you don’t need to plan months in advance. By mid-April, hotel rates truly start to decrease, fewer visitors are around, and the wonderful weather continues, making it an ideal time to visit, particularly if you’re hoping to avoid both crowds and the hurricane season. However, local businesses also take advantage of the off-season, meaning you’ll most likely encounter a few places that are closed for renovations.
• Best Time to Book Hotels in the Dominican Republic: When visiting during the busy winter period – December to February – try to make arrangements 2-3 months in advance. If reserving for Christmas, try 4-6 months ahead as hotels fill up quickly and often lack vacancies. It is advised to make restaurant reservations and contact tour companies for any activities in advance to avoid dissatisfaction.
• The period from December to February presents ideal weather conditions in the Dominican Republic, rendering it optimum for activities like snorkeling, scuba diving and whale watching, though it also represents the peak travel season resulting in heavier crowds. March to April experience warm temperatures averaging above 25°C during the day and around 15°C at night, as they fall during the drier phase of the country`s weather cycle. This makes them excellent months for hiking, rappelling or canyon exploration in the mountains where crowds will likely be sparser. However, one should avoid visiting in August and September to dodge the height of hurricane season, as unstable weather during this phase makes it unsuitable for enjoying good Dominican weather.
• Preferable Period to Go to Celebrate: February through mid-April brings the nationwide carnivals, Independence Day (February 27), Spring Break, and Easter vacations, making these some of the best times to visit for festivities. February begins the initial of 2 annual Carnival celebrations. Dominican Carnaval, which transpires every Sunday in February across the country, highlights diverse parades in every city, with La Vega as the place to be at for colossal, flamboyant functions. Citizens march through the roads with disguises and dance their way through the crowds while demonstrating the country’s history. The second Carnival celebration is the Barcelo Desalia Festival where 5,000 party-goers boogie on the beach to the finest of the worldwide electronic music scene. During Easter breaks or Semana Santa – Holy Week – lodgings fill up in popular regions. Watch out for beach closures because of a high level of drinking that weekend. In Santo Domingo, the Malecón is partly changed into a pedestrian zone and becomes a beach event in the city with games and music.
• Savings after mid-April: Hotel prices commonly drop by around 50% following April 15th. Airfare and cruise rates also decrease during the warmer summer months when activities continue hosting. Accepting some weather uncertainty could yield discounts, especially in September and October when tourism lessens, rainfall hinders beaches and golf, and hurricane threats peak. Understand repairs and renovations may occupy lodgings, dining spots and other companies using this period. Confirming closure or work plans ahead is wise for unpredictable trips to guarantee accommodation availability.
• Prime Timeframe to Witness Whale Observation: A magnificent, natural display happens every winter in Samaná Bay when thousands of humpback whales arrive to breed and give birth. December marks the beginning of the whale watching season, and annually, over 2,000 humpback whales are drawn to the warm waters at the Samana Peninsula. Samana Bay’s Sanctuary of the Humpback Whales is a top spot for catching a glimpse of newborn whales swimming with their mothers. March signifies your last chance for whale watching.

Dominican Republic Travel Seasons

• High Season (mid-December to late February): The Dominican climate is at its finest during the winter months between mid-December and late February. The beach climate is ideal because the temperatures are regulated by cooling easterly breezes while still allowing for sunny and dry weather. This duration attracts numerous visitors since many find it ideal to escape cold temperatures during this period. It is also the peak travel period for the Dominican Republic.
• Shoulder Season (March-May, November to mid-December): The shoulder season sees smaller groups and reasonable costs connected to lodging compared to the winter high season, even though there will be a surge in siteseers in March and April for spring break. The weather is also enjoyable with bright skies and typical high temperatures hovering around 25°C. You’ll find less crowds than over the winter months, noticeably less children, and slightly lower hotel rates. Lower occupancy levels also mean you don’t have to plan months ahead like you do in the winter.
• Lower Season (June to November): The official period of tropical storms conventionally extends from June 1 through November 30, but that does not necessarily signify that each day carries a menace of swirling winds. Storm activity and chances for hurricanes are more likely to develop from the second week of August and reach a peak throughout September. It is prudent to purchase travel protection if planning travel to the Dominican Republic in these 2 months. For most visitors, the heightened moisture content, rainfall, higher temperatures, and powerful Caribbean disturbances render this a less desirable time to explore the country. However, if cost savings are the priority, accommodations in the low season can be found for as little as US$21.

Weather in the Dominican Republic

Spread over 300 days annually, the climate of the Dominican Republic remains warm with slight fluctuations throughout the year. However, precipitation distinguishes the seasonal changes. Weather conditions exhibit nominal variance between coasts, most notably the mountains` effect on rainfall levels separating the southeast (Santo Domingo and Punta Cana) from the northwest (Puerto Plata). Dominican Republic weather also involves Atlantic hurricane season from June 1st to November 30th. Punta Cana particularly faces severe tropical storms, with October as the wettest month. Sheltering near the coast can minimize more adverse conditions. Interior highlands observe amplified rainfall while temperatures may plunge at higher elevations. Tourists should bring a light jacket when exploring cooler locales such as Jarabacoa and Constanza where the mercury dips to 10°C on occasions. On the coldest winter days, elevations may even see the thermometer descend to 0°. Conversely, summers often grow sultry and humid island-wide. Persistent humidity averaging 80% yearly signifies comfort levels fluctuate prominently over minuscule temperature deviations.

Similar to other parts of the Caribbean, the rainy season varies between the southeast and northwest coasts of Cuba. The southeast experiences rains from late April to October while the northwest is drier during this time but receives occasional showers in the winter months when the southeast is generally drier. Rains chiefly arise as brief thunderstorms or showers that do little to diminish overall sunshine, though downpours can be heavy at times. Precipitation tends to concentrate within specific windows so it`s possible to have rain-free weeks even during wetter periods. This summary considers the climates of both coasts jointly as rainfall amount is essentially the sole climatic difference between them.

• Weather Conditions in the Dominican Republic During January: Though winter months, very sunny and warm temperatures are typical in January with daytime highs averaging a pleasant 23°C. However, nighttime lows can fall as cold as 19°C. January sees one of the coldest nights throughout the year in the country and is one of the wettest months for the northern coastline, with approximately 12 rainy days expected in Puerto Plata, and 10 rainy days anticipated in Punta Cana in the southeast. The sun often shines for most of the year, but it does not shine as regularly as on the southern coast, particularly during the months when the trade winds blow. Hence, in January, Puerto Plata experiences an average of 6 hours of sunshine while Punta Cana sees 8 hours. Pack light summer clothing, your swimsuit, and flip flops but also come prepared with a rain jacket or umbrella as well as a light sweater and long pants for the evenings. (Average Daily High Temperature: 28°C. Average Rainfall for the North: 148mm, South: 65mm.)
• Dominican Republic Weather in February: February brings somewhat drier conditions to better enjoy the warm temperature and sun. The average daytime temperature ranges around 25°C, with night temperatures falling to approximately 19°C. The average water temperature is pleasantly warm, around 26°C, so be sure to pack swimwear. February still sees rain on the north coast with an average of 9 days of rain, but there`s still plenty of sunshine with 7 hours of daily sun in Puerto Plata and 9 hours in Punta Cana. Pack similarly to January with light summer clothing, swimsuits, comfortable shoes to take advantage of hikes on cooler days, and some rain gear as well as a light cardigan and pants for the evenings. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation for the North: 140mm, South: 55mm.)
• Weather conditions in the Dominican Republic during March: March brings warmer temperatures, abundant sunshine, and just a 12% probability of overcast skies. Since March is a relatively dry month in the country, it provides an excellent opportunity to go hiking or try activities like rappelling and canyoning in the mountains. The average daily temperature is 26°C and nightly lows typically reach around 20°C, offering welcome relief from the heat (and suitable conditions for comfortable sleeping). The temperature can climb up to around 29°C during the hottest parts of the day, so be sure to seek shade, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and use lots of sunscreen. March still sees a decent amount of rain in the north, with roughly 8 rainy days. However, with 7 hours of daily sunshine, rain showers don`t last long and can provide a nice cooling effect and cut through the humidity. Punta Cana sees an average of 9 hours of sunshine and 7 rainy days. March also marks the beginning of the seasonal lobster ban. Bring moisture-wicking clothing, plenty of t-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and your swimsuit, and pack a light cardigan for the evenings. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation for the North: 130mm, South: 55mm.)
• Dominican Republic Weather in April: The climate in April is quite pleasant and can happily be experienced as by mid-April, tourism decreases, the crowds are smaller, the beaches are more relaxed, and there are fewer parties. Temperatures continue becoming warmer with highest readings of 30°C while the typical daily norm is generally 24°C. During the nighttime, the temperature lowers to 20°C, so it is wise to bring a light covering for the evenings. Rainfall carries over into April, so some additional waterproof gear will be needed to pack since thunderstorms are known to suddenly surface. Roughly 10 rainy days are anticipated in the north and 7 rainy days in the south. Storms don’t last very long as there is an average of 7 hours of daily sunlight in the north and 9 hours in the south. Bring sun protection, a sunhat, light summer layers, and a swimsuit since the ocean averages 26°C, making it ideal for very at ease swimming situations. (Average Peak Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation for the North: 115mm, South: 70.)
• Dominican Republic Weather in May: May typically sees one of the wettest amounts of precipitation over an 11-day period for both the Puerto Plata and Punta Cana coasts of the Dominican Republic, with typical rainfall averaging around 130mm. Due to the frequent rain showers during this period, packing essential protection from wet weather such as a raincoat, waterproof footwear, and umbrella is highly advisable. The May rains are sufficiently heavy enough to potentially cancel or postpone scheduled golf games or beach outings that had been planned. The average daily temperature for May is approximately 26°C, with afternoon highs generally reaching 30°C. The humidity is often elevated as well during this time of the year, so swimming in the pleasant 27°C waters of the Caribbean Sea provides welcome relief from the muggy heat. Overnight temperatures typically drop to a comfortable 20°C, so some may prefer to have lightweight layers handy for cooler evenings. While the country typically sees around 7-8 hours of sunshine daily, the rainiest month of May will include a sizeable amount of cloud cover. It is not the prime month for underwater activities since storms can disturb seabed sediments, reducing visibility for activities like snorkeling and scuba diving, though above-water sports such as surfing for beginners and intermediates would still be possible, weather permitting. Recommended clothing includes light summer items, shorts, t-shirts, dresses, and rain-resistant footwear and outerwear that can withstand wet weather.
• Weather Conditions in the Dominican Republic in June: The 1st of June marks the commencement of the hurricane season and as the Dominican Republic is located directly within the route of Atlantic hurricanes, it can pose a genuine risk. Despite the probability of hurricanes, June generally tends to have less rainfall than May or even October. Comparable to other tropical destinations, the rainy period here means brief yet heavy showers may occur lasting only a brief time, with the sky promptly clearing thereafter. There is just a 10% likelihood of seeing clouds throughout the month. Puerto Plata typically sees around 6 days with precipitation with only 50mm of moisture while Punta Cana receives 105mm and 9 wet days, so rain gear may be needed if visiting the southeastern coast. Light summer layers are advised for both coasts since June is among the hottest months in the Dominican Republic with an average daily temperature of 28°C, with afternoon highs of 32°C. Nighttime lows barely lower, with an average overnight temperature of 22°C, so warm layers most likely won’t be necessary for most travelers but booking a room with a fan or AC might be preferable to stay comfortable while sleeping. During this time of year, the quantity of daily sunshine starts to increase to around 8 hours. Pack light summer clothing, ample sun protection including sunscreen, a wide brimmed sun hat, and sunglasses. Bring swim gear to take advantage of the lovely warm sea which averages 28°C in June. (Average Max Temperature: 32°C. Average Precipitation for the North: 50mm, South: 105mm.)
• Dominican Republic Weather in July: The climate presents some rainfall but also has sunny periods, so visitors will see occasional showers but there will also be many chances to relax on the beach or swim in the warm ocean. Precipitation and temperatures increase marginally in July with around 70mm of rain on average over 7 days for Puerto Plata and 80mm over 9 days for Punta Cana. The typical daytime temperature is 29°C in July, with highs of 33°C in the afternoon hours. Swimming offers welcome respite from the daily 8-9 lengthy hours of bright sunshine which generously contribute to warm and comfortable ocean temperatures. Overnight temperatures usually average 23°C, so booking accommodations with a fan or air conditioning is advised to have a comfortable sleep. Similar to June, pack light summer attire, lots of sun protection like sunscreen, a wide brimmed sun hat, and sunglasses. Warm layers won’t be necessary but a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes would be wise to stay dry during the rain showers that tend to last around an hour. (Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation for the North: 70mm, South: 80mm.)
• Weather Conditions in the Dominican Republic During August: August is one of the hottest months with average daily temperatures of 31°C and minimum night temperatures of 23°C. As temperatures continue increasing, the risk of hurricanes begins growing as well. August and September usually see the most tropical storm activity, so visitors are advised to monitor forecasts and plan accordingly. Although the likelihood of rain rises, there are still many days available for beach trips and swimming in the pleasant 29°C ocean waters. August typically experiences around 9 rainy days bringing approximately 70mm of rain to northern areas and 105mm of precipitation spread over 10 days in southern regions. Thus, light rain gear may prove useful. Daily sunshine amounts average 8.5 hours with daylight lasting around 12.5 hours. Despite occasional showers and cloud cover, UV indexes stay high, necessitating sun protection to avoid burns. Pack lightweight summer attire, ample sun protective items like sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. (Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation for the North: 70mm, South: 105mm.)
• Weather Conditions in the Dominican Republic during September: The warmer and wetter second rainy season of the Dominican Republic commences in September. Temperatures continue rising and the likelihood of hurricanes increases throughout this period. The Caribbean experiences most tropical storms during this timeframe, with some achieving significant size, so visitors are advised to take necessary precautions. Mid-September marks the peak threat from hurricanes for certain maritime regions in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Since September and October pose the highest risk of hurricanes, some of the most affordable accommodation rates all year are available in these months. Rainfall spikes to 100mm over 10 days in Punta Cana in the south, while Puerto Plata in the north receives 65mm across 7 days. Nonetheless, there remains ample sunshine with the nation enjoying about 8 hours of daily sunlight and just some cloud cover typically. The average daily temperature is 28°C in September, with highs of 33°C in the afternoons. Humidity levels are exceedingly high during this period, so swimming in the warm 29°C Caribbean Sea provides welcome relief from the muggy heat. Overnight, temperatures dip to 22°C but humidity remains unrelenting, creating very uncomfortable and fairly oppressive conditions requiring air conditioning. Pack lightweight summer clothing, some waterproof gear, and plenty of sun protection like sunscreen, a wide-brimmed sun hat, and sunglasses. (Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation for the North: 65mm, South: 100mm.)
• Dominican Republic Weather in October: The beginning of one of the wettest periods of the year arrives in October and with ocean temperatures remaining very warm, tropical storms are possible if conditions are right. The average rainfall rises to 150mm spread over 11 days for Punta Cana, while Puerto Plata receives 110mm over 10 periods of 10 days. Some of this rain appears as heavy tropical downpours, so most showers rarely persist for very long. The daily average temperature hovers around 27°C, increasing up to a maximum of 32°C with 80% humidity. Finding lodging with air conditioning and very easy access to beaches/pools is key as nightly lows only dip down to 22°C. With around 7.5 hours of daily sunshine, packing rain-resistant footwear, a light rain jacket or umbrella, along with light summer clothing and plenty of sun protection is highly advised. (Average Max Temperature: 32°C. Average Precipitation for the North: 110mm, South: 150mm.)
• Conditions in the Dominican Republic During November: The conclusion of hurricane season coincides with the onset of the wettest two-month stretch in the country. In Puerto Plata, around 230mm of rain typically falls over 14 days. Meanwhile, Punta Cana receives approximately 115mm spread across 12 days. Though winter approaches, temperatures remain warm with averages of 26°C. Evening lows dip to near 19°C in northern regions possibly necessitating long sleeves or a lightweight jacket. Southern locales see nightly lows averaging 23°C. Humidity declines only slightly from October, thus air conditioned lodging may still prove beneficial for comfortable sleeping. Daylight hours decrease through November with around 6 hours of sun by month`s end in Puerto Plata and 8 hours in Punta Cana. Include versatile clothing like lightweight summer attire alongside long sleeves, rain jackets, and shoes for cooler nights and wet weather. Despite lower UV ratings, sunscreen and protection remain important since levels remain high enough at an average of 8 to induce burning. Tanning will be safest before 10 am and after 4 pm if thorough application of sunscreen occurs, so be sure to pack some. (Average Maximum Temperature: 31°C. Average Rainfall North: 230mm, South: 115mm.)
• Synopsis of Dominican Republic Weather in December: December is the second wettest month of the year for the northwestern coast, with temperatures becoming cooler throughout this time. Daytime highs generally reach a very agreeable 26°C, although overnight lows drop to around 18°C in Puerto Plata and 23°C in Punta Cana. December brings one of the chilliest nights during the year in the Dominican Republic and it is also one of the wettest months for the northern coast with approximately 15 stormy days and 230mm of rainfall. On the other hand, Punta Cana in the south sees only 80mm of rain spread over 11 days. While sunshine prevails for most of the year in Puerto Plata, it does not shine as much as down south, especially when the trade winds are blowing. Hence, December averages 6 hours of sunshine in Puerto Plata and 8 hours in Punta Cana. Pack light summer attire, your swimsuit, and sandals, but also come prepared with a rain jacket or umbrella along with a lightweight sweater and pants for evening hours. (Average Maximum Temperature: 29°C. Average Rainfall for the North: 230mm, South: 80mm.)

Dominican Republic Holidays, Events, and Festivals

Dominican Republic in January

• New Year’s Day/Año Nuevo (January 1) – January first, which marks the start of a new year on the calendar, is considered a public holiday in the Dominican Republic. Most businesses and schools close for the occasion. It is traditionally spent with family and friends enjoying a large feast accompanied by music and dancing. On this day, it is believed that Dominicans leave their doors and windows open to allow evil spirits to depart, making way for good spirits. It also becomes common to see homes receiving fresh coats of paint, as this is done by Dominicans to welcome the new year. Visitors to the country in the first month will likely notice houses that have just been painted and new brooms left outside, as both symbolize the beginning of a fresh year.
• Three Kings` Day (January 5–6) – The major gift-giving occasion of the Dominican year. It is a day off for the general public and schools and most businesses are closed at this time.
• Most important religious observance on the Dominican calendar honors country`s patron saint – The peak spiritual day on the Dominican planner is devoted to intercessory petitions and an homage to the nation`s patroness, the Virgin of Altagracia, with a monumental congregation of celebrants in Higüey. When devotions conclude, festivities commence. Contingent on which day of the week the 21st of January falls, this holiday may be shifted to a Monday or Friday. It is a non-work day for the general public and schools and most companies close up shop.
• Juan Pablo Duarte Day (late January) – This national holiday honors Juan Pablo Duarte, an important figure in the nation`s independence movement, which is observed on the nearest Monday to his January 26th birthday. Towns across the country stage public celebrations, with the largest in Santiago and La Vega.

Dominican Republic in February

• Independence Day (February 27) – This national holiday in the Dominican Republic recognizes the country`s separation from Haiti in 1844. The date commemorating independence from Haiti coincides with the final evening of the island`s annual carnival season.
• Carnival (February 27) – The Dominican Republic`s most significant annual event. Each Sunday of that month features a street party that culminates in an enormous celebrations spanning an entire day and night along Malecón seafront with floats, processions, costumed performers, and much street dancing, rum drinking, and street food. Masks are worn by the parade participants, symbolizing good and evil. The greatest festivals can be found in La Vega, Santo Domingo, and Bonao. In Santo Domingo, the major event is 2 or 3 days before February 27, but festivities extend throughout the nation in all towns and cities. Around 30,000 merrymakers parade along Malecón in Santo Domingo.
• Cabarete Sand Sculpture Festival – For around 10 days each February, Cabarete is transformed into an expansive sand art landscape.

Dominican Republic in March

• March 19 de Marzo (March 19th) – The major festival in Azua, in honor of the battle in which the Haitians were defeated to ensure Dominican independence.

Dominican Republic in April

• Holy Week in Samana and the Dominican Republic: This important Christian week before Easter Sunday is also celebrated significantly in Haitian and Dominican Vodou culture. Traditional festivals typically occur in Haitian sugar worker communities during this time. The fusion of Afro-Dominican Vodou observances makes this an intriguing period to travel the nation. Numerous Dominicans receive this week off from employment, so many activities may not be accessible if planning a visit during this timeframe. Alcohol is prohibited in the towns and cities of the Dominican Republic throughout the week, so individuals visiting city centers will be unable to order or acquire alcohol. Eateries and bars at all-inclusive resorts are exempted from this ban. Some resorts will close their bars and excursions on Good Friday.
• Carnival Cimarrón – Held in the same week as Santa Samana. The townspeople of Cabral don masks of devils and demons, descend on the city from the lagoon, and strike each other and passers-by with balloons and whips.

Dominican Republic in May

• Santa Cruz (May 2–3) – A widely celebrated 9-night event in El Seibo including a cattle procession to a 16th century church on the final day along with a very different spring festival in Azua and Baní where all the crosses in the area are adorned with brightly colored paper.

Dominican Republic in June

• Espiritu Santo Festival (early June) – Although honored by the entire country, the festivities are in Villa Mella near Santo Domingo. African musical instruments are played throughout the town to show appreciation for things like crops, rain, and earth.
• San Juan Bautista Festival (3rd week of June) – A religious ceremony held in San Juan de la Maguana to honor John the Baptist and Chango, a spirit brought from West African Yoruba religion.

Dominican Republic in July

• Festival del Merengue (last week of July) – Annually since 1967, top bands perform for 6 days at Santo Domingo’s seaside promenade, El Malecón, and related events are held throughout the city of Santo Domingo to celebrate the traditional Merengue Festival, dedicated to the Dominican Republic’s national dance, merengue.
• Santiago Apostle (July 24–26) – Celebrating Santiago, the warrior patron saint of the Christian armies that conquered Moorish Spain. A large civic festival is held in Santiago with a lot of partying around the Monument.

Dominican Republic in August

Of the two main cities on the North Island – Wellington and Auckland – we found ourselves instinctively drawn to Wellington.

Dominican Republic in September

• San Miguel (September 29) – Also known as Belíe Belcán, San Miguel is honored with major festivals taking place in the capital’s Villa Mella and barrio San Miguel, Haina, and across the country. Foods with green-and-white frosting are consumed on this day.
• Our Lady of Mercedes (September 24) – A national holiday in the Dominican Republic honoring the Virgin Mary on a feast day established in the 17th century by the Mercedian order.

Dominican Republic in October

• Puerto Plata Festival (dates vary) – Similar to the Merengue Festival, this is the key cultural event on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, a weeklong festival with processions, food fairs, costumes, and top merengue, blues, jazz, and folk bands and groups. Performers from across the country come to perform traditional songs and dances, along with salsa, merengue moves, and African spirituals in Fuerte San Felipe at the end of the Malecón.
• Descubrimiento de América/“Discovery Day” (October 12) – Although not as widely celebrated as in the past due to links to Spain, festivities in Santo Domingo still occur on this day commemorating Christopher Columbus’ arrival, culminating with celebrations at Columbus’ tomb at Faro a Colón and at the Cathedral of Santo Domingo.
• Dominican Baseball – The commencement of the baseball season.

Dominican Republic in November

• All Saints Day (November 1) – A major Vodou ceremony in the San Juan de la Maguana and southern border region. Locals proceed to the graveyard to ask for the release of their relatives for the day.
• Constitution Day (early November) – Until 2011, this public vacation was observed on November 6th. Since then, it has been marked on the nearest adjacent Monday or Friday to transfer it to a 3-day weekend. This holiday commemorates the adoption of the nation’s original Constitution on this date way back in 1844. It is a day off for the general public and schools and most businesses close up shop.

Dominican Republic in December

• Christmas Eve (December 24) is known as La Noche Buena (“The Good Night”) in the Dominican Republic. Most businesses close by 6pm on Christmas Eve and some may not open at all. Services are typically available in major tourist locations, but it is advisable to have all needed items beforehand. The primary celebration is La Noche Buena, when Dominicans often gather with family for a feast including traditional food and drink while singing yuletide songs. Many also attend midnight Catholic mass services called La Misa del Gallo (“Rooster’s Mass”) on Christmas Eve. One of the most sizable and elaborate productions of La Misa del Gallo occurs at Santo Domingo’s Cathedral de Santa Maria in the colonial zone. This service is among the largest in the entire country.
• Christmas Day (December 25) – The Christmas season in Dominican Republic lasts around 3 months, more or less, starting in October. There are private gatherings and community events, fireworks shows, and winter markets everywhere. Christmas Day is a public holiday and everyone recuperates from Christmas Eve. There is also a mass usually held at noon.
• December Thirty-First (New Year’s Eve) – New Year’s Eve in the Dominican Republic is celebrated by tidying the home, buying new clothes to wear in the color that signifies what you aspire for in the new year, and a large feast with family and friends. Before the parties commence, however, cleaning the house thoroughly before the New Year arrives is the most critical aspect of the day. On New Year’s Day, no one touches the broom as sweeping anything could ‘sweep’ your luck away. Locals dispose of old brooms and buy new ones that are left outside the doors and brought inside the day after. Some Dominicans also go so far as repainting their houses to make them look perfect and welcome fortunate spirits. The eve culminates with the clock striking midnight and what is known as “El Cañonazo” in the Dominican Republic. Everyone exchanges embraces and toasts with their families, friends, and anyone they run into on the street to commence the year in a friendly manner. After the Cañonazo, most people head out for parties and celebrations. Gathering to watch the sunrise along the Malecón (boardwalk) is common in coastal cities like Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata. Depending on where you are staying, most resorts have a New Year’s Eve celebration to participate in.