The Dominican Republic celebrates Independence Day on 27 February, commemorating its 1844 separation from Haiti.
The date marks the declaration of independence by Dominican revolutionaries in Santo Domingo in 1844. The movement was led by La Trinitaria, a secret society founded by Juan Pablo Duarte, who is honored as one of the country’s founding fathers.
Independence Day is one of the Dominican Republic’s major patriotic celebrations. Events commonly include military parades, civic ceremonies, concerts, public decorations, and displays of the national flag. Carnival activities also take place during February, although Carnival and Independence Day are separate traditions.
A common mix-up is confusing this holiday with Dominican Restoration Day on 16 August. Restoration Day commemorates the 1863 uprising that began the war to restore independence after Spain temporarily reannexed the country. The earlier 27 February anniversary celebrates the original break from Haitian rule.