Santo Domingo.- With a shot of confetti, the Mayor Carolina Mejíaalong with Colí, the mascot of the Central American and Caribbean Games, officially begins the parade of the Carnival of the National District 2026.
From this moment, the Santo Domingo Malecón becomes a scene of popular festival. Color, music, dance and tradition take over the capital’s coastline in a celebration organized by the Mayor’s Office of the National District that brings together thousands of capital residents and visitors in a family, orderly and safe environment.
More than 70 troupes parade, displaying creativity, rhythm and folklore along a stretch of George Washington Avenue.
The day, which begins around 4:30 in the afternoon, passes with enthusiasm and massive attendance, supported by an extensive security device and an effective inter-institutional coordination which guarantees order and tranquility throughout the event.
Mayor Carolina Mejía highlights the cultural and social impact of the activity, stating that the carnival is not just a party, but a living manifestation of the capital’s identity and an opportunity to strengthen the traditions that unite the city.
The celebration, organized in coordination with the Carnival Union of the National District (UCADI), It allows entire families to enjoy each presentation with confidence, thanks to the logistical and preventive deployment arranged for the occasion.
This edition is dedicated to Dr. José Guillermo Mieses “Pepe”, renowned doctor, athlete and folklorist, founder of the emblematic troupe Los Leones del Diablo and key figure in the institutional strengthening of the carnival in the capital.
The beginning of the parade is led by the King of Carnival, Francisco Taveras Benítezdistinguished for his career and contributions to this tradition, along with the Carnival Queen, Santa Valdez, recognized for her years of dedication and multiple awards in this cultural expression.
The music band of the National District Fire Department and Los Guloyas de Propagas also participate, contributing rhythm and symbolism to the start of the route.
During the parade, representatives from different sectors show their talent in troupes and individual characters that captivate the public and the jury, competing in categories such as Great Comparsa, Best Floats, Alibabá Comparsas, Traditional Devils, Fantasy Devils, Historical Comparsas, Traditional Comparsas, Fantasy Individuals and Traditional Individuals.
The event also has the presence of municipal authorities, councilors, cultural managers and personalities from social, political and artistic life, who value the organization and the high level exhibited by the participants.
The music becomes the finishing touch to an afternoon in which Santo Domingo celebrates its cultureits creativity and the strength of a tradition that reaffirms the Dominican identity every year.
