Thousands turned out yesterday along the Av. George Washington boulevard of Santo Domingo (the Malecón) to watch the carnival parade. Some 120 costumed dance groups and colorful characters from all around the country represented their provinces and folkloric traditions of each region. Among the most applauded of the parade were the Diablos Cojuelos from La Vega and Santiago, the sea creatures from the Carnavarengue of Río San Juan, the Cachuas de Cabral, Los Moñuses de Espaillat, Platanuses de Cotuí, the Abejas de Mao, and the devils and crocodiles from Bonao. The Malecón Carnival was said to be the most successful given the turnout. People began staking out carnival watching positions as of 2:30 pm. They were joined by President Leonel Fernández. The Carnival started at 4 pm to the beat of Los Carnavales del Carnaval, sung by Marcos Caminero. It was organized by the Ministry of Tourism at a cost of about RD$4.5 million, including RD$600,000 in prize money. (6 March 2000)
