Dominican Republic Public Holidays 2025
Dominican Republic has 12 public holidays and 0 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 6 Jan | Mon | Epiphany | public |
| 21 Jan | Tue | Our Lady of Altagracia | public |
| 26 Jan | Sun | Duarte's Birthday | public |
| 27 Feb | Thu | Independence Day | public |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 5 May | Mon | Labour Day | public |
| 19 Jun | Thu | Corpus Christi | public |
| 16 Aug | Sat | Restoration Day | public |
| 24 Sep | Wed | Our Lady of las Mercedes | public |
| 10 Nov | Mon | Constitution Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
About Dominican Republic's Holidays
The Dominican Republic mixes national, public, and cultural holidays that bring family, music, and public ceremonies. Important national days honor the founders and independence, often with flags, parades, and official speeches across towns and cities.
Carnival and Holy Week are the biggest cultural moments. Carnival has colorful costumes, parades, and street parties in February. Holy Week around Easter is quiet and reflective, with many people traveling to beaches or attending religious services.
Religious and family holidays like Three Kings Day, Our Lady of Altagracia, Christmas, and New Year are widely celebrated. Labor Day and other civic observances close schools and offices so communities can celebrate together.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays in the Dominican Republic mix family, faith, music and food. People go to church or to the beach. Homes fill with merengue and bachata. Streets glow with color and loud music as neighbors celebrate together.
Food is central. Families cook big meals like sancocho, rice and beans, fried plantains and roasted meats. People share dishes with neighbors and visitors. Sweets and coffee end the meal. Cooking is a way to show love and keep traditions alive.
Public celebrations include parades, carnival masks, fireworks and community dancing. They blend Taíno, African and Spanish roots. Everyone joins the party, showing pride in culture, history and family ties. Hospitality is warm and welcoming.
Travel Tips
Visiting the Dominican Republic (do) during the holiday season means more people and more celebrations. Tourist areas stay busy, and hotels and flights sell out faster than usual. Book early to secure good rates and rooms.
Government offices, some banks, and many small shops close on major holidays. Supermarkets and tourist shops often stay open, but hours can change. Plan to buy essentials before a holiday and carry some cash for small vendors.
Public transport and taxis get crowded around festivals and church services. Allow extra travel time and consider private transfers for long trips. Airports are busier in the holiday weeks, so arrive earlier than normal.
Respect local customs and dress codes at religious sites. Stay aware of event schedules to avoid sudden road closures. Keep copies of important documents and emergency contacts handy.