Dominican Republic Independence Day

For starters, Dominican Republic is one of the few countries in the world that have fought and won their independence twice. First from Spain in 1821 and then from Haiti in 1844. It’s the second one that Dominicans celebrate every February 27th, as that was the date in 1844 when a secret society known as La Trinitaria (The Trinity) started the Independence war against the Haitian regime.

Although Dominican people celebrate their Independence Day on February 27th every year, the whole month of February is known as “Patriotism Month.” Celebrations start on January 26th, with the commemoration of the birth of national hero and founding father Juan Pablo Duarte.

Throughout the month, Dominicans celebrate their history, culture, and heritage. And here comes the cool twist: since Carnival takes place in the same month, they include it in their independence celebrations, which has to make it one of the most unique Independence Day celebrations in the world.