Holidays & Observances in The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean country located on the island of Hispaniola. It shares Hispaniola with Haiti. The Dominican Republic was originally owned by the Spanish, while Haiti was originally owned by the French, so their cultures are very different. They have been owned together, though, and the Dominican Republic had to earn its independence from Haiti in 1844, so the cultures have become more similar throughout the years. Dominican culture has been mostly affected by African, Indigenous, and Spanish culture. Today it is very influenced by Latin America. Catholicism is the main religion, and Catholic holidays are celebrated all across the country.