Latin Holidays - Dominican Republic

Filed in archive Latin Culture , Latin Holidays on December 12, 2006

The Holidays are celebrated in different ways around the world. Latin America is no exception: each country and region has its own traditions. I've been researching about it, and I want to share the ones I found more interesting or curious.

Let's start with Dominican Republic.

Home cleaning for the end of the Year

In the past it was traditional to remove old things from home, and wash carefully the house and the floors. The old brooms were thrown away or put in the corners of the houses. It was the moment to clean drawers and closets, get rid of old clothes and replace them with new ones. Also it's said that painting the house for the new year brings good luck.

Some people burn incense (to purify the spirit) or take herbal baths (to purify the body).

The "Aguinaldos", Songs and Ginger

This one is often rescued by enthusiastic young people . The tradition of "Aguinaldos" consists in joining your friends to sing christmas carols. The group goes from house to house, following the rhythm of tambora, güira and accordion.

The singers are received with joy by the neighbors, who offer them Ginger tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cakes, empanadas and other treats. The most traditional song, a mix of merengue rhythm and güira sound goes like this:

"Ábreme la puerta
que estoy la calle
y dirá la gente
que esto es un desaire.

Allá dentro veo
un bulto tapao,
no se si será un lechón asao"

I'll be sharing more traditions, from different countries. If you have anything to say - additions or corrections - please leave a comment.

Source: NavidadLatina.com