Santo Domingo (TDI): Dominican Republic marks it’s 181st Independence Day today, commemorating the country’s separation from Haitian rule in 1844.
In observance of the national holiday, the February 27 is a non-working day in the country ensuring that citizens across the country can participate in the celebrations.
All businesses and establishments are expected to comply with this regulation, with normal activities resuming on Friday, February 28, as stipulated by Law 139-97 on public holidays.
The capital city, Santo Domingo, becomes the centre for parades and cultural exhibitions.
The highlight of the celebrations is the month-long Carnaval de la Vega, which aligns with the celebrations of Independence Day.
History
The Dominican Republic became an independent state on February 27, 1844, after getting freedom from Haiti. Before that, the island of Hispaniola (which includes both the Dominican Republic and Haiti) was headed by Spain, France, and later by Haiti.
In 1822, Haiti took over the Dominican side of the island and ruled for 22 years. Fed up from the rule of Haitians, on February 27, 1844, the revolutionaries took control of Santo Domingo, fired a symbolic cannon shot, and declared the Dominican Republic free from Haiti.
Economy
The Dominican Republic has one of the emerging economies in Latin America. It depends heavily on tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, mining, farming, services and mainly with the production of sugar, cocoa and coffee.
Notably, the country has one of the world’s biggest gold mines. In recent years, the economy grew by over 5%, with construction, trade, and hotels leading the way.
The government is working on oil and gas projects with Guyana and improving border security. However, there are challenges, such as dealing with Haitian migration.
Culture & Heritage
The Dominican Republic has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Taino, African, and Spanish traditions.
Merengue and Bachata are world-famous music and dance styles originating from the Dominican Republic.
The country is known for its vibrant music and dance, with merengue and bachata being the most popular dance steps.
Merengue is a fast-paced, rhythmic dance with African and European influences, while bachata is a romantic, guitar-driven genre.
Tourism
Tourism is a key sector, with the Dominican Republic being the most-visited country in the Caribbean.
Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, and Samaná are among the top destinations. The country is known for its beaches, luxurious resorts, and eco-tourism opportunities.
The Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts visitors with its historical charm.
Congratulatory messages
As the country celebrates its independence day, many states including Latvia, Azerbaijan, Serbia, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Pakistan, Estonia, Azerbaijan and other countries extended congratulatory messages.
Wholehearted wishes on #IndependenceDay to #DominicanRepublic 🇩🇴 ¡Feliz Día de la Independencia!@MIREXRD | @RDenONU pic.twitter.com/VlJ6NYFUgg
— Latvian MFA 🇱🇻 | #StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 (@Latvian_MFA) February 27, 2025
Congratulations to the Dominican Republic on Independence Day! 🇦🇿🇩🇴@MIREXRD pic.twitter.com/CafpN1ap0V
— MFA Azerbaijan 🇦🇿 (@AzerbaijanMFA) February 27, 2025
On the occasion of #IndependenceDay of Dominican Republic, we extend heartiest felicitations to its Government and people@MIREXRD@PakinUSA
🇵🇰🤝 🇩🇴 pic.twitter.com/x8eYSE33mm— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) February 27, 2025
As the Dominican Republic reflects on its journey since 1844, the occasion serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the Dominican Republic’s historical legacy, cultural identity, and ongoing national development
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
