San Francisco de Macoris Carnival

San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic – 2008. I went to the Dominican Republic on a Habitat for Humanity project in San Francisco de Macoris. The annual Carnival is the biggest celebration of culture in the Dominican Republic takes place during the month of February. Starting in some regions pre-Lent on the first Sunday of February and continuing every Sunday until the Independence Day festivities on February 27. The Carnival dates back to the Spanish occupation in the 15th century and has evolved over the years to include indigenous and African influences along with characters that tell the history and folklore of the country and its mixed heritage. These photos are from the Independence Day celebrations in San Francisco de Macoris.

Kids and adults were dressed up in some fantastic costumes. Carnival, San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic

The streets around the town square were packed with people and the music was loud and Latin. Carnival, San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic

I do not know why, but I saw many mothers putting the young children close to the costumed performer in a very successful attempt to scare the living %^& out…

Amazing costumes. Carnival, San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic

There was a parade into the main square but it was very difficult to get any photos because of the mass of people crowding around. Carnival, San Francisco de…

Amazing costumes. Carnival, San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic

The traffic jam following the parade. Carnival, San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic

This guy is advertising Presidente beer. Carnival, San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic

I saw this character in the parade but was not able to get a picture. Here he is on his way home after a long day of scaring children. The character is known as…